Alexandra Grant Says She’d Choose This Profession If She Wasn’t an Award-Winning Artist (Exclusive)

**Alexandra Grant: From Art to Wine with LOVE Wine Launch**

Alexandra Grant, notable for her accomplishments in the art world and her relationship with actor Keanu Reeves, has recently shared her passion for winemaking. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Grant revealed that if she were not an acclaimed artist, she would likely pursue a career as a winemaker. This revelation came during the recent launch of her second bottling of LOVE Wine in Los Angeles.

At the age of 12, Grant’s introduction to what she describes as “wine culture” occurred during a summer spent in Paris with her mother, who was serving as a diplomat. One of her vivid memories from that summer involves a dining experience where a waitress insisted on serving her wine instead of a soft drink, despite her mother’s objection. “Madame, la Coca-Cola, c’est mauvais pour votre enfant,” the waitress insisted, leaving a lasting impression on young Grant about the deep connection between wine and dining.

Reflecting on this formative experience, Grant articulated how it sparked a fantasy about winemaking that has lingered over the years. She stated, “I love wine,” and explained that this fondness led her to explore various vineyards while developing her philanthropic project, grantLOVE. However, finding the right vineyard partnership proved to be a challenge. That was until she connected with J Vineyards, part of the E. & J. Gallo Winery group.

The collaboration with J Vineyards was facilitated after Grant wrote what she described as a “love letter” to Stephanie Gallo, a prominent figure in the wine industry known for her charitable work. Although the letter remained as a draft for quite some time, it ultimately led to introductions that allowed Grant to realise her winemaking dreams. Meeting Nicole Hitchcock, the Estate Director at J Vineyards, proved fortuitous. The two engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about wine production, resulting in a productive “super meeting” where they shared ideas and concepts through presentations.

From this collaboration, Grant and J Vineyards unveiled LOVE Wine, a California Brut sparkling wine, which was beautifully showcased with a label designed by interdisciplinary artist Genevieve Gaignard. The excitement around this partnership led to the release of a second bottling, now featuring artwork by Sonoma graphic artist Blanca Molina, honouring her Mexican heritage along with her Californian upbringing.

Grant expressed her admiration for Molina’s design, stating, “She knocked it out of the park.” She hopes that consumers will be drawn to the artistic presentation of the label, just as much as the wine itself, demonstrating her intent to intertwine visual art with the sensory experience of wine. The collaboration not only showcases the wine but also aims to support women creators by providing grants through grantLOVE.

In discussing her dual passions, Grant highlighted the parallels between the processes of creating art and producing wine. “The great thing about being an artist is experimentation,” she said, likening the unpredictability of winemaking to the artistic journey. Both fields require adaptability and an understanding that external factors can influence outcomes, whether they be natural events like unexpected weather or the evolving dynamics in the art world.

“It’s a dance with whether you can control the result,” Grant continued, adding that both artists and winemakers must engage deeply in their respective processes. This philosophy underscores her commitment to both her artistic practice and her new venture into the world of wine.

As the wine industry continues to evolve, Grant’s foray into this realm reflects a broader movement where creativity meets collaboration, inspiring other women in both art and winemaking. Her initiative with LOVE Wine not only contributes a new product to the market but also a meaningful cause that celebrates women’s accomplishments across various creative sectors. This venture is another testament to Grant’s ability to merge her passions and influence within the art world and beyond.

With a growing interest in wine culture and a focus on supporting fellow women creators, Grant’s work in the wine industry is poised to make a considerable impact as she shares her journey and creative spirit.