December 20th 2023.
Salamander Resort & Spa, spearheaded by owner Sheila Johnson, is set to revolutionize Washington, D.C.'s culinary scene with their upcoming groundbreaking collaboration. This partnership between Salamander, acclaimed chef Kwame Onwuachi, and Visit Loudoun DC’s Wine Country, is set to take place in 2024 and will be a defining moment in the region’s gastronomy.
Johnson, co-founder of BET, ventured into the hospitality industry by launching a Virginia-based hotel. With her keen eye for business, Salamander Washington, D.C. has become the newest addition to her collection and has given insight into the evolving wine culture, culinary fusion, and a new approach to hospitality within the region.
Janelle Burt, marketing manager at Salamander D.C., commented, “We’re excited to offer our guests a distinctive atmosphere defined by inclusion, kindness, and warmth.” To demonstrate this, an event featuring a captivating lunch showcasing the upcoming culinary fusion at Salamander’s new location and an intimate wine-tasting led by Bob Rupy, a respected winery owner and winegrower from Loudoun, took center stage.
Rupy, owner of October One Vineyard, is committed to engaging with the community and providing tasting opportunities in downtown Leesburg, inviting people to taste, explore, and learn about Virginia’s wine country history. This invitation extends to African Americans keen on exploring wine culture, as the Virginia Wine Trail offers an inviting avenue for cultural discovery.
Erickson, President and CEO of Visit Loudoun, shared her enthusiasm, “I’m thrilled that Loudoun—DC’s Wine Country®—is leading in creating unique and meaningful experiences.” Visit Loudoun’s marketing centers on authentic storytelling, presenting the people of Loudoun and those behind their businesses through content and videos. Erickson emphasized, “We recognize today’s diverse consumer base. We extend an inclusive invitation, but how we deliver on that promise matters.”
The Virginia Wine Trail stands out for its efforts in representation and engagement, acknowledging and celebrating the diversity of wine consumers. It actively engages with African American communities, providing platforms for appreciation, education, and participation in the winemaking process. This intentional outreach aims to foster a more inclusive and diverse wine culture where individuals from all backgrounds feel valued and embraced.
The Virginia Wine Trail is rooted in a rich history and inclusivity, resonating deeply with African American wine enthusiasts. Visit Loudoun’s efforts to create a welcoming environment include industry training to ensure comfort for individuals from all backgrounds.
As the clock ticks down to spring 2024, anticipation is building for the collaboration between Sheila Johnson, Kwame Onwuachi, and Visit Loudoun DC’s Wine Country. This union of visionary leadership, Loudoun’s wine heritage, and Onwuachi’s culinary prowess will surely create an unparalleled experience, captivating and delighting Washington D.C.’s epicurean enthusiasts.
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