Meet the new wave of winemakers sponsored by “Stay Rooted in California” – a scholarship program developed by The Roots Fund and Naked Wines
I aim to make wines that reflect the changing world. This requires respect for the hands and land that make the wine possible.
Samuel Dhiman, UC Davis winemaking student,
“Stay Rooted” Scholarship Recipient
Naked Wines and The Roots Fund are proud to support Samuel Dhiman – one of eight recipients of the “Stay Rooted” Scholarship in 2020-2021.
Samuel is always looking to better understand the vast world of wine. Born and raised in the Midwest, Sam found wine through the service industry after building a scientific basis in molecular and cell biology with an undergraduate degree from the University of Cincinnati.
After working as an Assistant Wine Director for the NAPA Wine Bar and Kitchen in Ohio and earning his WSET Level 3 Award, Dhiman sought out opportunities in the lab, moving to California to intern for Napa’s Lewis Cellars – and he didn’t look back.
Now a graduate student and researcher at UC Davis, Dhiman is using his scholarship award to pursue his Masters in Viticulture & Enology. He’s also continued his hands-on learning approach, earning a coveted internship at Dominus Estate for the 2021 harvest season.
About our partner: The Roots Fund was created to empower communities of color by providing resources and financial support through educational scholarships, wine education, mentorship, and job placement. Naked has pledged a 5-year commitment to The Roots Fund and the advancement of the BIPOC community in wine.