Mar 26, 2024
George Walker III, a recipient of the Roots Fund scholarship, shares his incredible journey and the impact it has had on his education and career in the wine industry. The Roots Fund, founded in 2020 by Carlton McCoy, Aikimi Dubeau, and Tahir Habibi, aims to provide opportunities for black individuals in the wine industry. George expresses his gratitude for the support he has received from mentors like Matt Nauman and Carlton McCoy, who have helped shape his education and career.
George recounts how Matt Nauman, the previous president of Wade Sellers, suggested that he would benefit from working harvest in Burgundy. Taking this advice to heart, George reached out to Carlton McCoy, a master sommelier and the founder of Lawrence Wine Group. To his surprise, Carlton responded and invited George to his home, where they had dinner and discussed the wine industry in Napa. This connection eventually led to George becoming one of the first recipients of the Roots Fund scholarship, allowing him to participate in educational programs and gain valuable experience in the wine industry.
George emphasizes the importance of being open and accessible to others who are seeking opportunities in the wine industry, particularly for black individuals. He believes in paying it forward and being a vessel for others, just as he has been supported and mentored by many people throughout his journey.
The conversation then shifts to the topic of racism in the wine industry, specifically in Burgundy. George asks Carlton about his experience as a black person in Burgundy, to which Carlton responds that France has never been a place for racism. In fact, France has embraced American talent, including jazz musicians, who found success and acceptance in the country.
The discussion then turns to winemaking and the different approaches that winemakers can take. George highlights the diversity and versatility of wine, comparing it to an art form where the same grapes can produce completely different wines in the hands of different winemakers. He appreciates the beauty of wine and the ability to express both the land and oneself through the winemaking process.
They then delve into the details of the wines George is currently making. He introduces the 2022 Chenin Blanc, a wine made from 100% organic fruit sourced from the Wilson Family Vineyard in Clarksburg. George explains that his goal with this wine is to pay homage to the history of wine growing in California and bring Chenin Blanc to the forefront. He praises the versatility of Chenin Blanc and its ability to appeal to a wide range of wine drinkers.
The conversation continues with a discussion about the 2020 California Cabernet Sauvignon that George is producing. He explains that in a normal year, they would have produced a Napa Cab, but due to the circumstances in Napa, they decided to make a California Appalachian Cab instead. The majority of the grapes for this wine come from the Bedrock Vineyard, with some additional grapes sourced from Mendocino and Paso Robles. George describes the wine as true to type, with a touch of acidity to bring freshness and liveliness to the wine.
The conversation then shifts to consumer preferences and the influence of well-known brands in the wine industry. George shares an anecdote about how during the COVID-19 pandemic, customers who typically purchased wines in the $12 to $18 range started buying $100 wines like Austin Hope and Caymus. He acknowledges that there is something for everyone in the wine world and encourages wine drinkers to explore and discover other producers who are doing incredible work.
They discuss the importance of educating consumers and introducing them to new wines and styles. George believes that there are amazing producers out there who deserve recognition and appreciation beyond the well-known brands. He emphasizes the need to have fun and explore different wines, stepping outside of one's comfort zone.
The conversation concludes with a reflection on the impact of storytelling in the wine industry. George expresses his belief that it's not just about the celebrity status or the marketing, but about what's inside the bottle. He believes that when people taste a wine that expresses something unique and tells a story, they will be compelled to try it again and share their experience with others.
Overall, the conversation between George Walker III and Carlton McCoy highlights the importance of mentorship, diversity, and exploration in the wine industry. They discuss the beauty of winemaking as an art form and the ability to express both the land and oneself through the process. They also touch on consumer preferences and the need to educate and introduce wine drinkers to new and exciting wines. It is clear that George is passionate about spreading the gospel of "dope juice" and making a positive impact in the wine world.