Chicago, IL, (August 21, 2018) – Southside Chicago-based sommelier, Derrick C. Westbrook will be recognized for his contributions to the wine and beverage industry, as a Wine Enthusiast 40 Under 40 Tastemaker. In commemoration, Westbrook will be featured on the cover of the October 2018 issue, in which the official list of 39 other industry leaders will be highlighted.
Photo by Scott McDermott
The second African American male to land a Wine Enthusiast cover within the last five years, Westbrook is in the company of NBA champion, Dwayne Wade who was also previously featured. The former Michelin-Starred Beverage Director, Wine Consultant, and Manager & Head Buyer of 57th Street Wines in Chicago, is shattering glass ceilings in an industry that has traditionally lacked a diverse landscape, with his latest recognition.
“I am both thrilled and honored to be named a 40 Under 40 Tastemaker by a highly respected publication such as Wine Enthusiast,” said Westbrook. “Wine has always been a passion of mine. I’ve been fortunate to turn my passion into my career, and this new recognition is one of my greatest professional accomplishments.”
Westbrook got his start in the wine industry as a bright-eyed server for the former, family owned restaurant, Lovoy’s in Birmingham, AL. He later served as Cellar Manager for the famed Alinea-group restaurant, NEXT and became the Beverage Director of the Michelin-starred, Elizabeth Restaurant all before turning 30. Today, Westbrook manages 57th Street Wines, an independent wine shop, located in Hyde Park, Chicago, and owns and operates Derrick C. Westbrook, a company that hosts pop-up wine-tastings, dinners and develops beverage programs for some of the city’s best restaurants and bars. Westbrook also serves as a consultant for Bibliophile Gastropub in Hyde Park, set to open September 2018.
Motivated by his love of people and passion for wine, Westbrook is dedicated to simplifying the wine discovery process for everyday consumers. Through traditional and experiential learning, Westbrook takes his extensive knowledge of wines and makes it accessible and relatable for the everyday consumer. His personal dedication and professional contributions have led to his latest Wine Enthusiast win.
The Wine Enthusiast 40 Under 40 list recognizes young winemakers, brewers, beverage directors, grape growers, and movers and shakers who are impacting today’s beverage industry in new and innovative ways. Westbrook joins 39 others who have made significant contributions in their respective roles.
About Wine Enthusiast Magazine
Wine Enthusiast’s approach to wine and spirits is accessible and unpretentious, and enjoyed by novices and experts alike. Published 13 times per year, the magazine’s audience is at nearly one million strong. The magazine and its Buying Guide with more than 300,000 ratings and reviews make up the most comprehensive database in the industry available for free online at www.WineMag.com.
