This post is dedicated to Black businesses, Black entrepreneurs, and Black Creatives.
You may have noticed that I took a brief hiatus last week, not because I didn’t drink wine (I certainly did), but because posting something as lighthearted as a wine review felt disingenuous. I was frustrated and angry, as many members of my community were and continue to be. How much longer will we have to plead not only for justice but for our humanity? With so much pain and turmoil in my community I felt it necessary to take a brief pause, and so I did.
We cannot afford to keep quiet so as not to offend others, or make palatable togetherness statements that don’t directly address the racism, police brutality, and injustice Black people face each day.
You may be thinking “I didn’t come here for this”, and you may not have, but I would be doing myself and my community a disservice if I didn’t address the racial injustice plaguing our community today. I cannot, we cannot afford to keep quiet so as not to offend others, or make palatable togetherness statements that don’t directly address the racism, police brutality, and injustice we face each day. If the above statement makes you uneasy or uncomfortable, good. It’s time you face those feelings and ask yourself why that is–and I hope that you do.
To my allies: if you find that when you post images or statements in support of #BlackLivesMatter you receive pushback or less engagement than usual, keep going. It means you’re speaking to the very people who need to hear the message most.
And with that, let’s get into this review.
In an effort to support Black businesses I decided this was the perfect time to try a wine from the Black Girl Magic collection by the McBride Sisters. Did I have plenty of wine in my pantry? Absolutely, but I’m making a conscious effort to buy Black.
I’ll start by addressing the elephant in the room. Yes, I’m drinking white wine out of a red wine glass, but hear me out. Serving fragrant wines like Rieslings in a large glass allows for larger surface exposure, meaning you get to enjoy the aromatic notes as you swirl, rather than bundling them in a small glass.
Mind blown? I know. You’re welcome.
This Black Girl Magic Riesling is magic indeed! 10/10 would recommend! With its sweet, but not too sweet buttery finish, this smooth wine serves hits of apricot, honey, and jasmine with a touch of pineapple and citrus on the end. Bonus: the acidity here is lower than you might expect, which makes for a cool and refreshing sip—perfect for a hot summer day.
This wine was just what I needed to take the edge off of a traumatic week of events. When life gives you racial injustice, pour a glass of Black Girl Magic Riesling, then fight the power…okay, maybe not in that order but you get the gist. I lit a candle and paired this wine with spicy pad thai and the season finale of Insecure, it was the perfect end to Self-care Sunday!
Speaking of candles, the By Niya candle pictured here is Black owned, smells divine and is made from 100% soy wax and all natural oils. If COVID has you down for the count this summer (and it probably should) let your senses travel to destinations across the world with these fragrant candles inspired by travel abroad.
What Black owned businesses or creatives do you support? Drop your favorites in the comments below!
Peace and love, but remember, no justice, no peace.
XO,
AllieBE
AllieBe is a passion project and lifestyle blog. Here you’ll find Food, Travel, and Health & Wellness content. I hope you’ll stay awhile and say hello!
Sonja Sky Gatlin
June 20, 2020I must say I learned something here…use a bigger glass. I’m just getting started on my wine journey and I needed this especially during these times. I didn’t post the prior week as I was busy being a diversity professional but I realize we all need time to process. It’s been tough without justice and I’m hoping we get that.
AllieBe
June 21, 2020I’m so glad to hear that! The world of wine is vast and there’s so much to learn (and taste), you never run out of options! Trying my best to remain positive and optimistic throughout this time, I hope you’re able to do the same!
Yaya
June 20, 2020I love using new candles. It changes the entire space
AllieBe
June 21, 2020Absolutely, completely agree!
Zuzu Brown
June 21, 2020I have been wanting to try this wine for a minute. This is the perfect time. I love the detail about the taste so I know what to pair it with. I supported God Is Dope TShirts, lotusbtr soaps, and Black Girl Sunscreen!
AllieBe
June 21, 2020Right?! If you needed an excuse to buy some wine, this is it! It really is SO good! If you try it, let me know what you think! I love that you’re supporting so many Black owned brands, especially during this time. I’m a huge fan of skincare and I’ve heard a lot about Black Girl Sunscreen, I’ll have to check them out!
Leslie H
June 22, 2020I definitely need to try that wine. Thanks for the recommendation. Speaking of candles and black owned businesses, I recently treated myself to a candle from Bright Black. Smells divine! Xoxo, Leslie, @SobeSavvy
AllieBe
June 30, 2020Hi Leslie! Thanks for the candle recommendation, I’m always looking for new businesses to support, I’ll have to check out Bright Black! Black Girl Magic really is a refreshing wine that’s perfect for summer! If you get a chance to try it, let me know what you think!
Stacie
June 23, 2020I think it’s so cool to see black businesses doing what they do.
AllieBe
June 30, 2020I couldn’t agree more! I’m glad they’re receiving some much needed support during this time. I’m hopeful that we’ll be able to maintain this momentum and help Black businesses continue to thrive!