In an industry traditionally dominated by established players, Marble Wines is carving out a unique space in Brooklyn’s vibrant wine scene. The female-founded label, recently launched in select Brooklyn wine shops, brings a fresh perspective to what’s in the bottle and who shapes wine culture, offering a new take on long-held assumptions about leadership in the wine industry.
Founded by Latoya S. Jordan and Brianna Shelko, Marble Wines embodies the kind of diversity and innovation that New York is known for. Jordan, a lawyer-turned-entrepreneur passionate about creating inclusive spaces, and Shelko, a social media expert and award-winning singer/songwriter with a keen understanding of community building, represent different races, generations, and backgrounds. This partnership mirrors their inclusive vision for the wine industry. Their collaboration comes at a notable time when the wine industry is beginning to address questions of accessibility and representation.
‘Our core audience wanted to see themselves represented on the bottle, and we listened,’ says Jordan. This attention to representation extends beyond marketing – it’s woven into every aspect of their brand, from their partnerships with female artists to their choice of retail collaborators in Brooklyn. ‘We’re not just creating another wine label; we’re working to build a movement that encourages rethinking the traditional narratives about who belongs in the wine space.’
The brand’s flagship, Red Blend, offers a fresh take in presentation and taste. Crafted to be both sophisticated and approachable, it caters to experienced wine enthusiasts while remaining welcoming to newcomers exploring the world of wine. Housed in a clear bottle – a notable choice that sparked curiosity in the industry – the bottle’s striking artwork has its own unique story of intergenerational creativity. The initial concept came from Kennedy Campbell, Jordan’s god-daughter, who was just 16 years old and a junior at Atlanta’s Woodward Academy when she shared her vision for the label. This concept was brought to life by artist Perryn Ford, represented by New York’s Traffic Artist Management Agency, who transformed the idea into the final stunning artwork. The result features a woman wearing reflective metallic gold sunglasses and classic red lipstick. This purposeful design choice allows every person who picks up the bottle to see their reflection in the glasses. ‘This interactive element of the design was intentional,’ explains Jordan. ‘It’s our way of encouraging everyone who picks up a bottle of Marble Wines to see themselves represented in our brand.’
Photo Courtesy: Marble Wines
Marble’s entry into the Brooklyn market is strategic, reflecting the borough’s reputation for embracing diversity and innovation. It partners with retailers who share its vision of inclusivity. Bed-Vyne Wine, known for its community-focused approach and curated selection, and Happy Cork, a Black woman-owned shop celebrating minority producers, are among the first to welcome the brand to their shelves. These partnerships represent more than just business relationships; they’re alliances in the movement to help make the wine industry more accessible and representative.
‘We’re not just selling wine,’ Shelko explains. ‘We’re working to create experiences that make wine accessible and enjoyable for everyone, whether you’re a casual drinker or a connoisseur.’ This approach resonates particularly well in Brooklyn, where authenticity and innovation are celebrated equally. The brand regularly hosts tasting events and educational sessions, creating spaces where wine enthusiasts of all levels can feel comfortable exploring and learning.
The timing of their New York launch coincides with Women’s History Month, though Jordan and Shelko’s commitment to female empowerment extends far beyond March. Their early success in breaking into the competitive New York market suggests the power of purpose-driven business and the growing demand for brands that reflect the diversity of their consumers. It also hints at a shift in the industry, showing consumers may be increasingly seeking wines that align with their values.
As Marble Wines establishes its presence in Brooklyn, it stands as an example of what’s possible when visionary women challenge industry norms. Their approach to business – prioritizing community, representation, and accessibility while maintaining high standards for their product – offers a potential blueprint for the future of the wine industry. In a borough known for embracing innovation and authenticity, this female-founded label isn’t just selling wine – it’s encouraging a shift in how we think about who wine is for and who gets to shape its future.
Photo Courtesy: Marble Wines / Latoya S. Jordan and Brianna Shelko
To learn more about Marble Wines, visit their website at marblewines.com. Follow their journey on Instagram @marblewines, where they regularly share event announcements, wine education, and celebrations of women in the industry. Interested retailers and distributors can contact the team directly through their website for partnership opportunities.
Disclaimer:
Articles featured on New York Weekly are provided by third-party contributors. While we strive to maintain a high standard of content, New York Weekly does not independently verify all claims or statements. The views expressed belong solely to the individuals or organizations mentioned and do not necessarily reflect those of New York Weekly or its affiliates. If you have any concerns about the content, please reach out to us for review.
