In 2003, three African-Americans, all master sommeliers, were recognized for their accomplishments. This milestone occurred 15 years after the first African-American, Michael V. Lewis, passed his Court of Master Sommelier exam. The 3 black Master Sommeliers are:
•Robert M. Parker, Jr., (born June 8, 1955), is an American critic, author, and publisher. •Sherwin R. Shanken, (born October 4, 1941), is the president and publisher of Wine Spectator magazine. •James Suckling, (born July 10, 1955), is an American critic, author, and publisher.