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Community Highlights: Meet Nekeidra Taylor of Vines Tasting Room

Today we’d like to introduce you to Nekeidra Taylor

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Born from a shared passion ignited by a Napa Valley adventure in 2018, Vines Tasting Room is the brainchild of our friendship -four lifelong friends: Frank and Leslie Daley, and Richard and Nekeidra “Niki” Taylor. We were inspired by the warm hospitality and diverse wine offerings at Brown Estate and envisioned a space that would bring a similar experience to our home cities of Washington, D.C., and Atlanta.

In 2019, we launched a series of pop-up wine events, showcasing Brown Estate wines and cultivating a welcoming atmosphere for wine enthusiasts of all backgrounds. The goal was to create a comfortable, inclusive space where people could indulge in minority-owned wines, much like enjoying a glass at home. Unfortunately, the global pandemic put a pause on these events.

Now, in 2024, Vines Tasting Room is reemerging with a renewed focus on elevated wine experiences. We believe that wine is for everyone, regardless of experience level. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious beginner, we’re here to guide you on a flavorful journey. Our curated selection of wines caters to diverse palates and budgets, ensuring that every visitor finds something they love.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The global pandemic forced us to pause our operations. As we emerge from this period, we’re actively seeking capital and implementing strategic business plans to elevate our concept. Our goal is to position Vines Tasting Room at the forefront of wine experiences in both Atlanta and the Washington, D.C. area.

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Vines Tasting Room?
Vines Tasting Room is more than just a wine-tasting experience; it’s a gathering place for people from all walks of life. Our focus is on creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable exploring the world of wine. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious newcomer, you’ll find something to enjoy at Vines Tasting Room.

We curate unique wine experiences, from pop-up tastings to cozy sip-and-stay events. Our diverse selection of wines offers something for everyone, allowing you to discover new favorites and rediscover old loves. We celebrate the joy of wine and the power of human connection.

Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
Curating pop-up wine experiences has taught us the importance of creating an inclusive atmosphere. We’ve found that people from diverse backgrounds feel comfortable exploring wine together. To achieve this, we focus on approachable language, avoiding wine jargon that can alienate newcomers. Our tastings are designed to be interactive and fun, encouraging questions and discussions. We also highlight the stories behind the wines, making the experience more engaging and relatable.

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