Brown Estate is one of the most iconic wineries in Napa for numerous reasons but mostly because it is the first and largest black owned winery. The elder Browns bought the estate in 1980 and although they had vineyards, all of the fruit was sold to neighboring wineries. In 1996, their children decided to make their first wine and started with estate Zinfandel. The estate was converted to organic farming and in 2018 they started a second label, House of Brown which is led by the ladies of the family and a unique partner to their Brown Label.

VinoTeca welcomes Chris Gaither, Master Sommelier and Directer of Wine Education for a special evening of all things Brown Estate. Instead of our weekly tasting, we will be offering a tasting of 3 or 5 wines from House of Brown and Brown Estate.

Chris’s storied hospitality career spans over 20 years. His first restaurant job was here in Atlanta and after spending years working at some of Atlanta’s finest restaurants, his passion and curiosity for wine led him to receive a coveted wine internship at The French Laundry. Fast forward to August 2022 Chris obtained his own Master Sommelier credential, making him one of four Black Master Sommeliers in the world. After years of a close relationship with the Brown family, he began working with Brown Estate in March, 2024.

Chris will be on hand pouring and sharing stories about this unique estate. Two tastings will be offered: a 3 wine flight of the House of Brown line up or a 5 wine tasting of the HOB wines + Brown Estates Chaos Theory and Brown Estate Napa Valley Zinfandel. We will also have a cheese pairing with the HOB wines by Toasts by Rachel.

Tickets are not required but are recommended. Must be 21 to taste. Seating is first come, first served.