Today we’d like to introduce you to Christina Mingo.
Hi Christina , it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My journey into the wine industry began with a personal appreciation for wine that developed more than 20 years ago through travel and visits to wineries and vineyards across the country. Experiencing different wine regions sparked a curiosity about the craft and the artistry behind winemaking.
In 2020, I began making wine at home as a hobby, simply exploring the process and deepening my knowledge of the craft. Around that time, a meaningful family conversation changed everything. Our family matriarch shared that my grandmother, Julia, had also made wine years ago. Learning that piece of family history was both surprising and inspiring—it created a deeper connection to what I was doing and motivated me to take my winemaking to new heights.
That discovery ultimately inspired me to officially launch The House of Julia Wine Company, named in honor of my grandmother and the legacy she unknowingly passed down. The brand reflects my passion for wine, storytelling, and heritage, while also embracing a modern, luxury wine experience.
Professionally, I built a successful career in Human Resources, spending nearly two decades in leadership roles focused on people strategy, employee relations, and organizational development. While I valued that work, I also felt a strong calling to build something of my own—something that honored my family’s legacy while creating space for greater diversity in the wine industry.
Today, through The House of Julia Wine Company, I’m focused on building a brand that celebrates culture, legacy, and community through wine. From curated wine tastings and educational experiences to expanding our portfolio of wines, my goal is to create a brand that brings people together while honoring the story that inspired it all.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely has not been a completely smooth road. While the wine industry has begun to see more African Americans and other ethnic groups enter the space in recent years, there are still challenges when it comes to access and opportunity. Like many industries, relationships and connections play a significant role, and without the right network or resources, building a brand can be difficult. Unless you are a celebrity or have significant financial backing, breaking into the industry and gaining visibility can present real obstacles.
For entrepreneurs like myself, it often means navigating a path that requires persistence, resilience, and a willingness to learn along the way. There have been moments where doors didn’t open easily, but I’ve remained committed to the vision and refused to take “no” as the final answer. Much of my journey has involved learning through trial and error and continuing to push forward despite challenges.
One of the most valuable parts of the journey has been finding mentors and supporters who are willing to share their knowledge. I’ve been fortunate to connect with my mentor, Tonii Turner of The Winemaking Studio, who has been an incredible support system. She has helped guide me through the technical side of the winemaking process and has generously shared her expertise along the way.
Those experiences have reinforced my belief that representation and mentorship matter. While the road hasn’t always been easy, each challenge has strengthened my determination to continue building The House of Julia and to contribute to creating more opportunities for others who aspire to enter the wine industry.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
The House of Julia Wine Company is a luxury wine brand built on legacy, storytelling, and the idea that wine should be both an experience and a connection point for people. The brand was created to honor my grandmother, Julia, and the family heritage that inspired my journey into winemaking.
Our focus is on crafting high-quality wines while creating experiences that make wine more approachable and enjoyable for a wide range of consumers. In addition to offering wines, we host curated wine tastings and educational experiences designed to introduce people to the world of wine in an inviting and elevated way. I enjoy helping people build confidence in exploring wine, whether they are longtime enthusiasts or just beginning their journey.
What sets The House of Julia apart is the story behind the brand and the intention behind everything we do. Representation in the wine industry is still evolving, and I am proud to contribute to that change by building a brand that reflects culture, heritage, and inclusivity while maintaining a refined and sophisticated identity.
One of the things I am most proud of is launching our inaugural varietal, a Brut sparkling wine, which symbolizes celebration, new beginnings, and the spirit of the brand. It represents not only the start of the company but also the realization of a vision inspired by family legacy and perseverance.
Ultimately, I want readers to know that The House of Julia is more than a wine brand—it is a tribute to heritage, a celebration of culture, and a growing platform for bringing people together through wine, storytelling, and shared experiences.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
I have many wonderful memories from my childhood, but what stands out most is the deep sense of family that shaped my upbringing. Spending time with my family—especially my grandmothers—left a lasting impact on me and is something I still cherish today.
One of my favorite traditions was our annual family vacations and the road trips we would take from Detroit to Columbia, Mississippi, where my father’s side of the family is from. Those trips were always special because it meant spending time with my grandmother, Julia. Every time I visited, she would bake a coconut cake just for me. Her home was always filled with laughter, great food, and a sense of community.
Everyone in Columbia seemed to know the Mingo family, and people often said that if you wanted good Southern cooking and good company, you could always come to “Julia’s House.” We were known for hosting the most memorable fish fries, where family, friends, and neighbors would gather together.
My other grandmother, Loraine—who I was named after(middle Name)—was also incredibly influential in my life. She was like a second mother to me. I spent many days with her shopping, learning how to cook, and watching her sew and reupholster furniture. She would often join our family on those long road trips to Mississippi, which made those journeys even more special.
I also remember one of our most exciting family trips when my parents took my twin sisters, my cousin Donald—who is like a brother —and me to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida for the first time. It was an unforgettable experience and one of those childhood moments that stays with you forever.
Looking back, those memories remind me how important family, tradition, and togetherness are—values that continue to influence both my life and the inspiration behind The House of Julia today.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.houseofjuliawine.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/houseofjulia_wine?igsh=MWZ2c3BvZ2FtMzlnOQ==
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1KqiQ9SzbY/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehouseofjulia_wineco?_r=1&_t=ZP-94RTeuEuDgU
