Arabia Mountain Vineyard, a hidden gem in Stonecrest, Georgia, honoring Black heritage through winemaking.
Located in Stonecrest, Georgia, the Arabia Mountain Vineyard honors Black agricultural history and fosters community through winemaking. Owner Tim Starks, inspired by his heritage, transforms the land into a beacon of Black representation in the wine industry, joining a rare few as Black-owned wineries in the U.S. With a commitment to honoring ancestors, Starks plans to release the vineyard’s first line of wines this year, marking a significant step for both community revival and cultural representation.
Located in the vibrant community of Stonecrest, Georgia, the Arabia Mountain Vineyard is often regarded as a hidden gem, rich with Black history and agricultural promise. The tale of this vineyard unfolds against the backdrop of a long-standing connection between the land and its African American cultivators. This delightful vineyard stands as a testament to the hardworking spirits of Black farmers throughout the years.
Tim Starks, the proud owner of the vineyard, embarked on his journey about 30 years ago when he purchased the land. Like many good stories, this one too started with a different vision. Initially, he grew trees on the property, but it was after a trip to the enchanting Napa Valley that he felt a call to transform the land into a vineyard. With a deep-rooted understanding of agriculture, instilled from his Southern upbringing in Georgia, Starks made the leap into viticulture. He believes the land speaks to its caretakers, and his respect for it is evident in every vine he plants.
What makes the Arabia Mountain Vineyard even more special is its historical significance. Starks shares a heartfelt sentiment about the Black ancestors who once toiled on this very land. While staple crops such as cotton and rice are often associated with African American agricultural history, it’s essential to remember that grapes were also part of this rich tapestry. Starks sees the establishment of the vineyard as an homage to those who came before him. He feels he is honoring his ancestors by continuing the legacy of cultivation and connection to the earth.
The statistics surrounding Black ownership in the wine industry are startling. With fewer than 1% of wineries in the U.S. being Black-owned, the landscape feels overwhelmingly white. The struggle for visibility in such a competitive market has proven to be challenging for Black winemakers. Starks is fully aware of these hurdles but remains determined to carve out a space for himself and others like him. He embraces the notion that what they’re trying to achieve at Arabia Mountain Vineyard is not just a business endeavor, but a significant step towards community revival and representation in the wine industry.
As Starks looks toward the future, he is buzzing with excitement about what’s to come. This year marks a pivotal moment as they are set to produce their very first line of wines. To assist in this considerable undertaking, a sister vineyard has come on board to aid in larger production efforts. This collaboration spells great things not only for the vineyard but also for the budding wine scene in Georgia.
Tim Starks expresses an unwavering sense of optimism about the vineyard’s future. He feels divinely inspired to cultivate the land, and this passion is palpable. With every vine he nurtures and every drop of wine produced, he believes he is not only reviving an agricultural legacy but is also making a powerful statement in today’s world. The Arabia Mountain Vineyard stands as a celebration of Black heritage and a fertile ground for future generations.
As the years unfold, the work being done at Arabia Mountain Vineyard will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark not only on Stonecrest but on the greater sphere of Black representation in winemaking. Through persistent effort and a profound respect for the land and its history, Starks and his team are building a legacy that echoes through time. Visitors to this vineyard will not only sip on delightful wines but will also be part of a historic revival, making every visit a celebration of culture, heritage, and community.
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