Nurturing Wine Noire
Wine Experiences Inspired by a Community of Artists
Jazmine Ladouceur has traveled to 25 countries, living for a time in China and Sweden. On a trip to Tuscany and Umbria in September of 2023, while at dinner with wine educator Tanya Morning Star, Jazmine learned that she had been selected for the 2024 cohort of the James Beard Foundation Legacy Network. The dinner quickly turned into a celebratory one, reaffirming that Jazmine was on the right path.
Jazmine’s journey as a wine expert began after losing her beloved mother Adrian Tweedy, in 2018. She sometimes found comfort in remembering how her mother would enjoy a bottle of wine with good friends over conversation.
After observing the lack of diversity in winemaking on a trip to Napa in 2020, Jazmine recognized the opportunity to immerse herself in something her mother had enjoyed and sharing it with others. She now seeks to elevate the experience of wine enjoyment and make it more approachable, by removing any stuffiness in its presentation.
In 2021 she founded NOIRE, and began curating and hosting wine tastings and solo art exhibitions. Celebrating culture, wine and art, NOIRE has been invited to curate the 50th Gala Celebration with Beyond Baroque Literary Arts Center, the Inaugural opening of Jac Forbes Contemporary DTLA location, and private events. Jazmine is an alumni and ambassador of Wine Unify, member of the Association of African American Vintners, the Bâtonnage Forum, and a James Beard Foundation Legacy Network Protégé.
“As a Los Angeles native I’m part of a diverse community brimming with authenticity, passion and creativity,” she said. Currently, NOIRE curates wine selections for events, working closely with wine brands and organizations as a consultant and with restaurants in the creation of their wine programs. She plans to open a brick and mortar location in the heart of her hometown of Los Angeles which would include a wine lounge, shop, and alternative art space.
Samuel Ladouceur, Jazmine’s husband helped crystalize her decision to make the entrepreneurial leap through his support and positive encouragement.
Learn more about NOIRE online at noirwinelounge.com, and on Instagram at @noirewinelounge and @blackpotsupperclub.