Donae Burston, founder and CEO of La Fête Wine Co., Miami, announced that Chris Paul (CP3), Phoenix Suns point guard and 11-time NBA all-star, has joined the La Fête Wine Co. family as an equity partner. Founded in 2019 as a fresh, modern and inclusive wine brand geared toward drinkers of all backgrounds, Paul joins the company at a time of extraordinary growth, the company says.

“Not only is Chris an incredible athlete and businessman, but he’s also a wine enthusiast who is vocal and passionate about representation & inclusivity in the wine industry,” Burston said in a statement. “He is a natural fit for our team, and we are thrilled to have him on board.”

Paul has been a long-time supporter of the brand after first being introduced to La Fête du Rosé. In addition to sharing an affinity for the wine, Paul and Burston connected on causes they're passionate about, such as championing the inclusion of people of color in all industries and their unwavering support of Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs).

“I'm thrilled to partner with La Fête Wine Co. and work with them to continue to grow the business and fulfill their brand vision,” Paul said. “I fully support their efforts in creating a better and more equitable society by helping underserved youth, advancing racial justice, and making wine more inclusive.”

La Fête Wine Co. released its flagship wine, La Fête du Rosé, in May 2019. The award-winning rosé now can be found in stores and on menus in more than 40 markets across the United States and online for nationwide shipping. In 2021, La Fête du Blanc, a white wine also produced in the South of France, debuted as a limited-release and quickly sold out. Due to its success and demand, La Fête du Blanc will be released as a permanent line in 2022. The team also has a third wine in production slated for a 2022 release.

Since its debut, the brand has donated a portion of its proceeds to various programs that send disadvantaged and underrepresented youth on unique travel experiences, and to organizations focused on advancing racial justice and creating opportunities for people of color in the wine and spirits industry.

In May 2021, La Fête became the first company to secure an investment from Constellation Brands Ventures as part of its initiative to invest $100 million in African American/Black and minority-owned businesses in beverage alcohol and adjacent categories by 2030.