For centuries, wine has been a cultural experience that brings people of all backgrounds together. With this in mind, Wine Access, the online wine retailer curating the world’s highest quality wines and immersive tasting experiences, partnered with Josh Hart, NBA player and wine enthusiast, to create a Diversity In Wine Scholarship Program.

Photo of Josh Hart with wine
Josh Hart Announcing Wine Diversity Scholarship

This scholarship aims to promote diversity and inclusivity in the wine industry and increase representation of the BIPOC community. As a company made up of wine experts with different backgrounds and experiences, Wine Access strives to provide more opportunities for minority groups within the wine industry to receive credentials from CMS and WSET in order to get their foot in the door as they move through their journey of becoming sommeliers.

“I entered the wine world as a young Black man and was lucky enough to build some incredible relationships. However, I also saw how many barriers to entry there can be for other young people of color,” said Josh Hart, a professional basketball player in the NBA. “This industry can often seem intimidating, but Wine Access makes it more comfortable for newcomers to build their knowledge and expand their palate.”

Video on How the Scholarship Works

The scholarship will reward 100 members of the BIPOC community who currently work in or aspire to pursue a career in the wine industry with the chance to learn from top wine industry professionals and become WSET Certified. Top performers can even earn additional opportunities—including a trip to Napa with Josh.

To apply, applicants need to complete an online form HERE. The deadline to submit an application is October 31st, 2020. For more information, watch this short VIDEO of Josh describing the scholarship.

Josh Hart and Vanessa Conlin MW, Wine Access Head of Wine

About Wine Access

Wine Access is a leading online wine retailer focused on creating an immersive experience, empowering consumers to experience the under-the-radar winemakers and iconic producers who define the art of wine. Founded in 1996, Wine Access was the internet’s original unified wine portal which made it easy for consumers to shop for wines online and deliver them to their doorsteps nationwide. Today, Wine Access also offers a wine club, a robust online retail outlet, exclusive private-label offerings, regional events throughout the country, as well a comprehensive wine content platform spanning social media, video and podcasting. 

“We’ve gotten to know Josh Hart through this process and learn about his love of wine, so we’re excited to partner with him for this long-overdue initiative,” said Joe Fisch, CEO of Wine Access. “No matter what ethnicity, background or gender, wine is the great communicator that unites us all.”