A childhood dream nurtured thousands of miles away has blossomed into a historic milestone in the United States, as Ifeoma C. Onyia, a Nigerian-born entrepreneur, becomes the founder and owner of Clyopatra Winery & Vineyard—officially recognized as the first African immigrant-owned winery and vineyard in the country.
Located in Laurel, Maryland, Clyopatra Winery & Vineyard stands as a powerful symbol of perseverance, generational vision, and the expanding influence of women of African descent in industries where they have long been underrepresented.
“It’s been a lifelong dream since age eight to this point,” Onyia said. “It feels so amazing. I feel so grateful.”
A Dream Rooted in Family and Faith
Onyia’s journey began in Nigeria, inspired by her late father, a wine connoisseur who collected fine bottles and encouraged her curiosity. When she told him as a child that she wanted to follow in his footsteps, his response became a lifelong affirmation.
“He said, ‘Sweetheart, when you get older you can do it,’ and that stayed with me all these years,” she recalled.
Decades later, that encouragement has materialized into a six-acre vineyard off Brooklyn Bridge Road, where grapevines now grow as living proof of resilience, patience, and belief.
From Vision to Vineyard
Clyopatra Winery & Vineyard is currently in its first harvest season, with Onyia cultivating hybrid grapes such as Chardonel and Regent. While the vineyard matures, she sources grapes from farmers on Maryland’s Eastern Shore to produce her wines.
Beyond the vineyard itself, the brand has already expanded. A tasting room, located less than four miles away in Laurel’s arts district, recently opened its doors and is drawing enthusiastic crowds.
“When you come inside, you feel welcomed,” said Onyia’s son, S.J. Oyebade, who runs the tasting room. “People who never knew each other come in and become friends.”
Building Generational Wealth and Legacy
For Onyia, the winery is not just a business—it is a family legacy in motion. Her children are actively involved, reinforcing her belief in building generational wealth through ownership and vision.
“Seeing my mom’s dream come to fruition reminds me that generational wealth is something we can all achieve,” Oyebade said.
Visitors to the tasting room can enjoy curated wine flights, including Pinot Grigio, Cabernet, and Rosé, offering both seasoned wine lovers and first-time tasters an inviting entry point into the brand.
Looking Ahead
The future of Clyopatra Winery & Vineyard continues to take shape. Construction is already underway at the vineyard site for a second tasting room and a wine production facility, where visitors will be able to experience grape crushing and pressing firsthand.
“This is an experience I can’t wait to share with the community,” Onyia said.
As a Black woman, an African immigrant, and a first-generation winery owner, Ifeoma C. Onyia’s achievement is being celebrated not only as a business success, but as a redefining moment—one that expands representation, inspires women globally, and reminds young girls that even the boldest childhood dreams are valid.
