Tara Gomez and Mirera Taribo are winemakers in the Santa Ynez Valley. Tara is the first Native American woman winemaker in the United States, and her wife, Mireia, is a Spanish winemaker who brings her old-world winemaking skills to Central California. Cassandra also meets Mexico-born and decorated Executive Chef Claudette Zepeda.
On this Emmy-winning episode Timothy Parker, former Navy Search and Rescue Swimmer and Veteran owns the only Black beer company in San Diego. His story and desire to pay it forward through brewing, shows his dedication and commitment to his country and community. Cassandra also meets Donnie Edwards, former NFL football player and Founder of Best Defense Foundation.
Cassandra visits her "wine mom," Denise Clarke, the only Black Woman winemaker in San Diego County. Denise owns and runs Altipiano Vineyard in Escondido, California. She is an award-winning winemaker, with visitors often asking, "who's the winemaker?"
Cassandra embarks on a trip to Inglewood, California; from coffee to libations, she connects with Black entrepreneurs building community and leadership. Visiting Sip & Sonder, Crowns & Hops Brewery, and 1010 Wine and Events, Cassandra meets innovators embracing their culture while sharing the tools and resources to increase avenues to entrepreneurship.
The future of winemaking is filled with disruptors taking notes from previous generations. From flowers to Aztec traditions, two winemakers are leaning on their mentors to shape the future of winemaking. Aaliyah Nitoto, Founder of Free Range Flower Winery, and Chris Rivera of Seis Soles are influential in bringing new ideas to old traditions.
Cassandra meets wine legend Iris Duplantier Rideau, the first Creole woman to own a winery in the United States. From growing up in Jim Crow to becoming a pioneer in various industries, Iris's story transcends decades of history. Sharing her story and mentoring others cements her legacy as a trailblazer, bridging the gap for women and BIPOC industry hopefuls.