In a recent interview with BLACK ENTERPRISE, Brandon Crump, the owner, client service, and operations specialist of Michael Lavelle Wines, expressed his enthusiasm for the brand’s success in enhancing the community’s appreciation for wine. Alongside founders Aaron “Michael” Coad and Terrence “Lavelle” Low, Crump and sommelier Devin Kennedy have worked tirelessly to redefine the way people of color experience wine.

Michael Lavelle Wines, which launched on Juneteenth 2020, aims to address a void in culturally relevant wine craftsmanship for millennials and minority audiences. The team’s partnership with Crump and Kennedy has further solidified their commitment to providing an unmatched wine experience.

Despite launching during a challenging time, Michael Lavelle Wines has thrived, selling out its inaugural vintage rosé and gaining a strong following. As reported by Urban Vino, the team’s website was instrumental in successfully selling all of its delicious rosé. The predominantly white-owned wine industry presented numerous obstacles to the founders, particularly when it came to securing distribution partnerships that aligned with their mission. However, their commitment to educating the masses about wine offerings kept them motivated.

Since its launch, Michael Lavelle Wines has sold over 1,200 cases and expanded its offerings to select locations in Richmond, VA, Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles. The team’s dedication to making quality wine accessible for communities of color remains unwavering. Their wines can be found in local Black-owned restaurants in Chicago’s South Side, as well as in trendy eateries in the West Loop district and Michelin-starred restaurants.

The company’s success is not limited to sales alone. Michael Lavelle Wines has garnered recognition and praise for its Iris Rosé, Iris Zinfandel, and Iris Chenin Blanc. Publications such as The Washington Post, Forbes, New York Times, and Wine Enthusiast have highlighted these wines.

Michael Lavelle Wines prides itself on offering everyday luxury at an affordable price. The team wanted to create wines that were accessible and didn’t require a special occasion to indulge. This intention is evident in their flagship varietal, a blend of cabernet and pinot grigio grapes. The signature rosé is smooth, with crisp flavors and fresh fruit aromas.

In addition to their dedication to creating exceptional wines, Michael Lavelle Wines also actively engages in community work. The team has partnered with Frame Chicago, a renowned photo and art printing source, and emerging artist Kayla Mahaffey. Through this collaboration, they have celebrated and reflected on the stories conveyed by Mahaffey’s colorful paintings.

Furthermore, the wine label has partnered with the nonprofit Roots Fund to support and inspire Black and brown youth to join the wine industry. Proceeds from their wines have contributed to funding education for a graduate of a historically black college or university (HBCU). The team’s commitment goes beyond adapting to wine culture; it is about honoring their community through wine.

With each bottle, Michael Lavelle Wines continues to make a significant impact, not only in the wine industry but also in the lives of those they support through their community work. As the youngest Black-owned wine company, their future is bright, and their journey is poised to inspire others to pursue their passions and make a difference.

In February, Michael Lavelle organized a highly successful gathering at The Park at Fourteenth. The event, graced by the presence of actor Mack Wilds, created quite a buzz among candle enthusiasts. Lavelle cleverly introduced a new product, the Aroma candle, to complement his premium selections. The candle, which promotes relaxation, debuted on Instagram in March.

The prestigious 2023 Proof Awards winners are beaming with pride as they consistently deliver the finest wine, unforgettable experiences, and even more extraordinary moments. To commemorate reaching 10,000 followers on Instagram, Michael Lavelle plans to captivate a wider audience of wine enthusiasts. He is teaming up with Wilds to make a splash in Miami on September 9th. They will be hosting a remarkable Wine Tasting & Live Music event on Washington Avenue.

The anticipation surrounding Lavelle’s wines is building, especially with the addition of Wilds to the mix. Wine lovers cannot wait to witness the magic that will unfold at the event. The social media sensation and talented actor are set to leave an indelible impression with their exquisite blend of wines and enthralling live music.

The excitement surrounding the event is palpable, and wine enthusiasts are eagerly looking forward to indulging in the fine selection of wines showcased by Michael Lavelle and Mack Wilds. It is a unique opportunity to experience their award-winning wines firsthand while enjoying the enchanting ambiance of live music.

In a world where James Harden’s signature wine flies off the shelves within seconds on a Chinese livestream, it is evident that there is a growing fascination with the intersection of celebrity culture and the wine industry. Michael Lavelle’s collaboration with Mack Wilds underscores this trend and promises an unforgettable evening filled with sophistication, passion, and extraordinary flavors.

Make sure to follow Michael Lavelle on Instagram (@sipmichaellavelle) for more updates on this exciting event. Stay tuned as the anticipation mounts, and mark your calendars for the Wine Tasting & Live Music extravaganza in Miami on September 9th. It is an affair not to be missed for wine connoisseurs and music lovers alike.