Sheila Johnson And Chef Kwame Onwuachi On D.C. Wine Culture

by Daron Pressley

December 20, 2023

Salamander Resort & Spa needs to redefine Washington D.C.’s culinary scene with an upcoming groundbreaking collaboration.

Salamander Resort & Spa, guided by proprietor Sheila Johnson, goals to redefine Washington, D.C.’s culinary scene with an upcoming groundbreaking collaboration. Set for spring 2024, the partnership between Salamander, acclaimed chef Kwame Onwuachi, and Go to Loudoun DC’s Wine Nation will mark a pivotal second within the area’s gastronomy.

Sheila Johnson, co-founder of BET, ventured into the hospitality business by launching a Virginia-based lodge. Over a decade, her assortment has expanded considerably. The latest addition, Salamander Washington, D.C., has unveiled insights into the evolving wine tradition, culinary fusion, and a brand new strategy to hospitality throughout the area.

“We’re excited to supply our company a particular ambiance outlined by inclusion, kindness, and heat,” shared Janelle Burt, advertising supervisor at Salamander D.C.

An occasion that includes a charming lunch showcasing the upcoming culinary fusion at Salamander’s new location and an intimate wine-tasting led by Bob Rupy, a revered vineyard proprietor and winegrower from Loudoun, took heart stage.

“At October One Winery, we’ve constructed an experience-based operation,” explains Rupy. Dedicated to participating with the neighborhood, October One supplies tasting alternatives in downtown Leesburg, inviting folks to style, discover, and study Virginia’s wine nation historical past.

For African People eager on exploring wine tradition, the Virginia Wine Path gives an inviting avenue for cultural discovery.

“I’m thrilled that Loudoun—DC’s Wine Nation®—is main in creating distinctive and significant experiences,” says Beth Erickson, President and CEO of Go to Loudoun.

Illustration and Engagement:

Go to Loudoun’s advertising facilities on genuine storytelling—presenting the folks of Loudoun and people behind their companies by way of content material and movies.

“We acknowledge right this moment’s various shopper base,” Beth Erickson, president and CEO of Go to Loudoun, informed BLACK ENTERPRISE. “We prolong an inclusive invitation, however how we ship on that promise issues. Observing range mirrored in our tasting rooms confirms our messaging is resonating.”

The Virginia Wine Path stands out for its efforts in illustration and engagement, acknowledging and celebrating the variety of wine customers. It actively engages with African American communities, offering platforms for appreciation, training, and participation within the winemaking course of. This intentional outreach goals to foster a extra inclusive and various wine tradition the place people from all backgrounds really feel valued and embraced.

Wealthy Historical past and Inclusivity of Virginia’s Wine Path:

The Virginia Wine Path boasts a wealthy historic significance and inclusive strategy, resonating deeply with African American wine lovers. Traditionally, African People performed a pivotal position within the nation’s viticulture, courting again to their involvement as winery laborers for Thomas Jefferson.

Inside Go to Loudoun’s efforts to create a welcoming atmosphere, a key pillar has been business coaching to make sure consolation for people from all backgrounds. There’s a centered coaching strategy throughout the business spectrum.

“A easy wine tasting may entail pouring wine in a glass whereas mentioning the varietal,” explains Erickson.

“That may meet some company’ expectations, however that’s not our strategy right here in Loudoun. We collaborate carefully with the neighborhood and Black enterprise leaders to tailor business coaching, addressing potential blind spots.”

Because the countdown to spring 2024 begins, all eyes are on Salamander and chef Kwame Onwuachi — a partnership set to carve a brand new culinary legacy within the coronary heart of the nation’s capital. The union of Johnson’s visionary management, Loudoun’s wine heritage, and Onwuachi’s culinary prowess promise an unparalleled expertise, charming and delighting Washington D.C.’s epicurean lovers.

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