"Cultivating Community in Wine"
Mailynh Phan is the definition of industry trailblazer full of pure joy and light! It's been more than a decade since she began managing operations as the CEO for the Vietnamese-owned, women-run winery that's geographically on the outskirts of Napa Valley. Not only is she leading a winery that pays homage to her heritage, she's also ensuring anyone who interacts with RD Winery truly feels community in wine--free of judgment with accessibility to affordable, exceptional wines.
Growing up with a white mother and Vietnamese father, Mailynh wrestled with how she fit in. In an industry and region that's historically iterated the same business model for decades, Mailynh saw an opportunity to capitalize on her outlier status and rewrite the rules to create a welcoming and inclusive community that values acceptance, belonging, and diversity. This is evident from every facet of her business--from the people she hires, to the landscape of the tasting room, and the wines they make. Recently, RD Winery launched a new food program and the first all-Asian-cuisine pairing menu. The food and wine experience features exciting twists like Gruner Vetliner with green curry dusted popcorn and Chenin Blanc with a veggie spring roll and tamarind sweet chili sauce. In true RD style, guests are encouraged to find their own favorite combinations as there are suggested pairings but no hard and fast rules.
#SipWithUs as we dive into a wineful and mindful conversation centered around how this badass powerhouse femme is getting people to open up their minds and diversifying the wine experience, the challenges she's faced as a woman of color CEO, navigating the pandemic, and the importance of highlighting Vietnamese culture through the wines RD Winery produces. Follow their journey by tapping into their IG @rdwinery and visit them for a tasting: 3 Executive Way, Napa, CA!
