About WineGriot

Griot, pronounced "gree-OH", is a word that hails from West African culture that’s used to describe the oral historian of a family or community. Beyond just storytellers, they were trusted advisors and served as living archives of culture and society. They were the keepers of knowledge, the stewards of the past, and the disruptors of the present.

The beverage side of the hospitality industry too often ignores the stories and labor of certain communities; choosing instead to present a sanitized and exclusionary image of “luxury”. I have experienced over a decade of learning, teaching, selling, making and caring for wine.  In almost all of these spaces, I was one of few women present, one of few black people present, and typically the only black woman. Through my offerings here and work in the industry, I hope to create a community of people like me: fellow disruptors who long to seek knowledge, share culture and change the status quo.  

I hope to pour a glass for you soon!

About Kayla

Kayla Mensah is a formally trained Sommelier and Beverage Consultant, with over a decade of experience in the food and beverage industry.  Combining a love for science, the written word, and community with esteemed certifications from the Wine & Spirits Education Trust (WSET), Court of Master Sommeliers, CSW, and Wine Scholars Guild, Kayla possesses a unique blend of expertise. 

As owner and operator of WineGriot, she focuses on crafting wine tastings and classes for all palates. Her educational approach concentrates on consumer over industry, which makes wine feel personal, accessible, and rooted in culture. She brings a wealth of hands-on experience to her work, including:

  • Beverage Director at a Michelin-starred restaurant, where her wine list earned recognition from Wine Spectator

  • Running a lively pizza and wine spot in Miami, proving good wine isn’t just for white tablecloths

  • Curating selections at top-tier wine retailers in Miami, New York, and D.C.

  • Building wine education programs that actually connect with diverse audiences

  • Studying under award-winning winemakers in Napa Valley.

Her expertise extends beyond the glass; encompassing private event planning, wedding & party wine consultation, and a comprehensive understanding of beverage pairing. With thousands of hours dedicated to guiding novice wine enthusiasts, Kayla identifies their preferences and expertly matches them to the perfect bottle. She meticulously considers cost, availability, and cultural perspective to find wine that speaks to each person. 

Kayla's approach to wine education is both informative and engaging, weaving together the stories of wine with the history and culture of each region. Whether it's exploring the nuances of a particular vintage or pairing wines with a specific art exhibition, she creates immersive experiences that captivate and delight.

Kayla Mensah

WSET II, Certified Wine Specialist, Certified Sommelier, Italian Wine Scholar