How Lezette Young Turned a Passion Project into ChulaVie, an Award-Winning Sangria Brand Redefining the Industry

In an industry steeped in tradition yet often resistant to reinvention, Lezette Young is carving out a bold new space one bottle at a time. As the founder of ChulaVie, Lezette  is not just creating a beverage; she is reshaping how consumers perceive sangria, elevating it from a casual staple to a premium, wine-forward experience rooted in culture,  and craftsmanship.

What began as a creative outlet alongside a full-time career quickly evolved into something far greater. Lezette  didn’t set out to simply participate in the beverage industry. She set out to challenge it. With ChulaVie, she has introduced a modern take on sangria that honors its rich cultural heritage while embracing innovation. By blending real fruit, natural ingredients, and high-quality wine, she has developed a product that resonates with today’s more discerning and experience-driven consumers.

ChulaVie stands apart in a category that is often overlooked within the broader wine and spirits landscape. Rather than following trends, Lezette  focused on building a brand grounded in authenticity and quality. The result is a sophisticated sangria that delivers both depth of flavor and a refined drinking experience qualities that have quickly earned industry recognition.

In 2025, ChulaVie achieved significant acclaim, securing two Gold Medals at the New York International Wine Competition, including an impressive 95-point rating and the title of Red Sangria of the Year. The brand also received a Silver Medal from USA Wine Ratings (86 points) and another Silver Medal at the American Sangria Challenge (89 points). These accolades not only validate the product’s quality but also position ChulaVie as a standout contender in the premium beverage space.

Lezette’s journey is particularly noteworthy given the challenges she has navigated along the way. As a Black woman entrepreneur in a traditionally male-dominated and highly network-driven industry, she has built ChulaVie organically without relying on established industry connections. Her success is a testament to persistence, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to staying true to her vision.

Looking ahead, Lezette  is focused on expanding ChulaVie beyond sangria into a broader portfolio of ready-to-drink, wine and spirit-based cocktails. While growth is on the horizon, her approach remains consistent: every product will uphold the same dedication to quality, authenticity, and craftsmanship that defines the brand today.

At its core, ChulaVie represents more than a beverage it embodies a story of innovation grounded in tradition, and a vision that transforms a simple concept into a premium lifestyle experience. As the brand continues to evolve, Lezette Young is not only redefining sangria but also setting a new standard for what’s possible in the wine and spirit-based cocktail category.

• Website: www.chulavie.com
• Instagram @chulavie23