Viarae Prosecco Recognized as Innovator of the Year at Wine Enthusiast's 25th Annual Wine Star Awards

Viarae Prosecco Named Innovator of the Year at Wine Enthusiast's 25th Annual Wine Star Awards

Viarae Prosecco has been honored with the Innovator of the Year award by Wine Enthusiast at their 25th Annual Wine Star Awards. Viarae is the groundbreaking collaboration between Emmy- and Golden Globe-nominated actress, producer, and entrepreneur Issa Rae, and GALLO, the world’s leading family-owned wine and spirits producer in the United States.

For Rae, Viarae is a deeply personal project, a brand that embodies the passion, authenticity, and innovation she brings to the wine industry. It reflects her commitment to creating a new voice in the wine world and attracting a diverse, dynamic audience.

Viarae has quickly become the #1 Prosecco in the Ultra-Premium+ segment, appealing to a new generation of wine drinkers.

“It’s such an incredible honor to have Viarae recognized as Innovator of the Year,” says Rae. “Viarae is all about embracing authenticity, freedom, and creating moments of joy with friends, no matter the occasion. This award is a meaningful acknowledgment that Viarae was designed to represent and celebrate the vibrant Black female community, welcoming us all in our joy and complexities. I’m grateful to Jacqueline Strum and the Wine Enthusiast team for this recognition.”

Prosecco has been Rae's signature drink both on and off the screen. It was the signature drink of the protagonist in Insecure, the Peabody Award-winning HBO show Rae co-created, starred in, and produced. "When people told me they were drinking Prosecco because of my character, I thought, ‘Why not offer a Prosecco from me?’ Viarae is the result of that thought—a Prosecco made to my taste, with the look I wanted, and a reflection of what I stand for," says Rae.

Viarae Prosecco is known for its bright, crisp, and lively profile, with a subtly dry and refreshing style, perfect for sipping or showcasing in cocktails—something Rae herself often enjoys.

Since its debut in October 2023, Viarae has seen tremendous success and growth. In addition to being the #1 Prosecco in the Ultra-Premium+ segment, Viarae expanded its portfolio to include Prosecco Rosé in October 2024.

"Viarae’s success is not just due to Issa Rae’s influence, but also the wine's distinctive style and taste," says Beth Orozco, Vice President of Marketing at GALLO. "The brand was created with a blend of passion, authenticity, and a mission to make wine more accessible. By embracing this ethos, Viarae has filled a gap in the market, and we're proud to be part of that journey."

Viarae Prosecco D.O.C. ($19.99 SRP) is crafted from 100% Glera, the traditional grape of Prosecco, grown in Treviso, Northern Italy, by the prestigious La Marca cooperative. Viarae is available nationally through select retailers and on-premise locations. For more information, visit www.viarae.com.

The Wine Star Award winners will be featured in Wine Enthusiast's Best of the Year issue and online at winemag.com in November 2024. Viarae and other winners will be celebrated at the magazine's annual black-tie gala in late January 2025.

About Viarae Prosecco

Viarae Prosecco, created by Issa Rae, is a sparkling wine perfect for candid moments with friends, celebrating milestones, or simply enjoying life. More than just a fresh take on Italian wine, Viarae embodies freedom, authenticity, and the joy of being true to oneself. Suggested retail price is $19. Learn more at www.viarae.com.

About GALLO

Founded in 1933 by Ernest and Julio Gallo, GALLO is a family-owned company and global leader in wine, spirits, malt beverages, and RTDs. With a commitment to sustainability and producing high-quality products for every occasion, GALLO serves joy in moments that matter. Explore their full portfolio at www.gallo.com.