Meet Nekeidra Taylor | Co-Owenr, Vines Tasting Room – Pop-Up Wine Experiences

We had the good fortune of connecting with Nekeidra Taylor and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nekeidra, how did you come up with the idea for your business?
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.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
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 with 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.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
1. Swing Mini Golf – a great place for fun, right outside of the city and Black-owned, This place is Instagram picture ready and a great staff.
2. Bougie Grazer – great ambiance, Black-owned, and a great wine experience for all
3. Callanwolde- Exhibit by Shannon McCollum – provides a great place to see what Atlanta is really about through the lens of this astounding photographer
4. The Corner Grille – a great place to eat in College Park on Main Street
5. Lee & White – great food hall and next to breweries and other cool places to eat, drink, visit
7. Westside Motor Lounge – a great spot for a concert or to have drinks and eat (outdoor).
8. Visit the AUC, MLK area, and Jimmy Carter Library.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Inspired by a trip to Napa Valley, we were captivated by the professionalism and welcoming atmosphere of Brown Estate Wines’ downtown location. This experience ignited our passion to bring a similar vibe to our cities. The fact that Brown Estate is Black-owned further inspired us to create inclusive pop-up wine experiences in Atlanta and the Washington, D.C. area.

Website: https://vinestastingroom.com

Instagram: vinestastingroom

Facebook: Vines Tasting Room

Image Credits
Vines Tasting Room