How many years have you been in the business? Tell us briefly about your background and your current position today.
2+
Did you have a particular “aha!” moment that propelled you into wine?
I was constantly reaching out to friends about some of my favorite wines and placing thousands of dollars in orders for them just via my varied wine club memberships. Then a friend said, too bad you can’t monetize this. And pow, I said “actually, I can!”
What is the most rewarding part of what you do?
Love being able to give meaningful information about wine to all levels of wine lovers. From the people who embrace 2 buck chuck to the one swho drop $200+ /bottle. Most people just want to be able to chat about wine and ask questions to like minded people. Wine is like story telling … they seem to go hand in hand.
What do you do to create wellness balance in your life? Any particular activity, practices, etc that are meaningful to you?
Wellness is tricky. As a direct to consumer wine ambassador, impending wine shop owner on top of being a full time physician, I make sure to get sufficient sleep and stay in contact with my friends and support system. Even when you doubt yourself, that circle will remind you of your greatness!
What changes do you hope to see in the wine industry in the next five years?
I hope to see an open exchange of ideas and experiences that can be enjoyed by all. Wine still has an air of exclusivity that needs to be cleared away. Only by sharing all our stories and enjoyment of wine will we see inclusivity growth and equity amongst all wine lovers.
What does equality in the wine industry look like to you?
Equity vs equality has always been the trick question. Equality does not always close the gap in our collective experience . We need to further support winemakers, growers and business people of color to minimize the centuries of historical exclusion to get closer to equity.
How do you feel you’re contributing to creating a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive wine industry?
My heritage being 1st. First generation Mexican America who intends to use my knowledge and platform to elevate those around me who might otherwise be intimidated by the wine world.
What advice would you give to someone starting their career in the same sector of the wine industry as you?
There is a lot of free wine studies to be had if only you look. Make “wine friends”. Always be willing to try new wines. Most importantly, even if you don’t know the “right” words , say what comes to mind about wine. Your wine friends and studies will help you fine tune your thoughts.
Name some people who inspire you in the wine industry and please explain why.
Martin Reyes, MW just through his social media he has a very open and inviting allure to himself. I imagine he would enjoy wine and sharing stories without any pretense. In the few interactions he had been lovely.
Mishawn Williams, as woman of color and a founding ambassador for Boisset Collection, she focuses on empowering the women around her and supports her ambassador team very powerfully.