"Find the YES!"

Uprooting their life from the Big Apple after graduating from the CIA with a dual bachelor's degree in Culinary Science and Applied Food Studies, Darwin Acosta's journey to wine country is an inspiration for anyone out there looking to take a chance on themselves. This phenomenal human is one of the first scholarship recipients of The Roots Fund's "Rooted In Napa" scholarship, providing Black, Indigenous, and LatinX individuals with a secure pathway towards their advancement and opportunities in the wine industry. What does it really mean though when companies say they want to prioritize amplifying diversity in the wine industry? #SipWithUs to learn all about the #magicmoments that ultimately led to a new chapter in Darwin's lie, the community and acceptance found during one of the most challenging years that ultimately led to them planting their roots in Napa Valley, and the current programs and organizations dedicated to turning one's dream into a reality. 

We are gettin REAL on Episode 7, spillin knowledge on what it means to stay true to you, owning your work, and acknowledging that the steps we take today will show up, manifest, and have an impact down the line. So get ready for a cup full of Darwin's charismatic and energetic personality as we dive in and de-stem what the future of this industry holds when we create more space, amplify, elevate, and support. There is room for everybody, everywhere and anywhere, and Darwin's new venture as the Viticulture, Enologist, & Hospitality Assist for Burgess Cellars is proof of that. Officially planting their roots in Napa Valley, Darwin hopes to be a positive influence to those around so that they too know it's possible--you just have to find the "YES!"

To support and connect with the people and organizations paving the path and creating access for more diversity in the wine industry follow:
@thehuesociety
@rootsfund
@carltonmccoy
@sippingsocialite
@megs_zobeck
@blackwineprofessionals
@juliaconey

What is The Big Sip?

Welcome to The Big Sip, where the wine flows, the conversations are FUEGO, and the culture is unapologetically bold. This is your VIP pass to brown and Black movers, shakers, visionaries and tastemakers in food, wine and art. We’re talking culinary geniuses, artists, winemakers, fashion creatives and more, who are pouring out some serious inspiration and redefining what’s possible—and we’re doing it all with a copita in hand. Grab your drink, settle in and don’t miss a sip—or a second—of the magic. Welcome to the world of SIPFLUENCERS!