Carlton McCoy is breaking barriers being just one of three Black Master Sommeliers in the world. Overseeing some of Napa Valley’s most iconic wineries alongside it’s owner Gaylon Lawrence Jr., McCoy has been able to bring a unique perspective on creativity, leadership, mental health, and exclusivity to the wine industry.
By creating a work environment which empowers its people to be entrepreneurial and a touch rebellious, McCoy has built a team of leaders and innovators who are invested in shaping the future of wine.
That future includes providing outreach to communities with little to no interaction with wine. McCoy has been a strong advocate for racial inclusivity in the wine world through his work in The Roots Fund which raises awareness and opens doors for people of color to network and explore career paths in the wine industry.