Robin McBride and Andréa McBride John, the co-founders of McBride Sisters Wine Company, have always had a deep passion for winemaking. Their journey to finding the perfect vineyard to call home was nothing short of serendipitous. When they discovered an estate in Carneros, California, it felt like an act of divine intervention.
The purchase of this 12-acre ranch was a significant milestone for the sisters. It marked the establishment of their home base for McBride Sisters Wine Company, which they started in 2005. Robin, who grew up just a short drive away, manages the operational side of the business, while Andréa promotes the exceptional wines from her upbringing in New Zealand.
Since 2014, the sisters have collaborated with winemaker Amy Butler to create a diverse portfolio of wines sourced from vineyards in California and New Zealand. Their offerings range from an affordable $8 canned rosé, perfect for casual outdoor gatherings, to a $25 Cabernet Sauvignon-Merlot blend under the Black Girl Magic label. They are also planning to release a small-production reserve label called Legacy.
What sets the McBride Sisters apart is their commitment to inclusivity and positive change in the wine industry. They have faced challenges and discrimination, being referred to as “girls” in the past, but they have used their platform to make a difference. In 2019, they launched a line of canned wines called SHE CAN, with a portion of the proceeds supporting a fund that empowers women, especially women of color, in pursuing opportunities in winemaking and sales.
Their new vineyard in Carneros is not just a place to call home, but also a space for collaboration and community. The sisters envision it as a hub for students, friends, family, and recipients of the SHE CAN fund. They also plan to make wine from the fruit grown on the estate, with Andréa particularly excited about the potential for Sauvignon Blanc.
For the McBride sisters, their journey has been about quality and affordability, making high-quality wines accessible to all. Through their activism and their wines, they have found their place in the industry and a sense of purpose. The vineyard represents a milestone in their evolution as business owners and creators.
Source: The McBride Sisters Find Their Vineyard and Make a Difference in the Wine Industry (Food & Wine)