How a glass of Riesling led me to the world of wine

Few things tickle the brain with curiosity, bring people together and inspire creativity quite like wine. Those are the very things that make the wine industry so fascinating to me. It just never gets old; unlike that bottle of Champagne you’ve got sitting in your wine rack, waiting for the perfect occasion to be opened.

Before I ventured into the wine industry, I was a corporate girly working a nine to five (more like eight to eight) in the city and blissfully unaware of the world hidden beneath a restaurant wine list. When I finally delved deeper, it felt like Pandora’s box, in the best way possible. There’s so much more to wine than a passerby might notice, however in some cases, you need a trusty steed to show you the way.

Journey into wine

Sadly, it wasn’t love at first sight for me, when it came to wine. It was a labour of love, a slow burner of sorts. But now, I can say we’re locked in for life. The moment came at a wine event when I was still a novice, attending a tasting with no expectations other than catching up with a friend, while doing something “different” on a Thursday evening. Before I knew it, I had correctly identified the notes in a Kabinett Riesling and what I’d written on my tasting sheet was almost verbatim how the host described it. It was then that I realised wine tasting isn’t a gift that only those who have been blessed with supersonic tastebuds possess, it’s a skill that you can learn. That discovery changed everything. Fast forward a few years, and wine and I became official. I decided to pursue it as my full-time career.

The initial spark of discovery that I experienced is what I love to ignite at my own tastings. There’s nothing like seeing someone’s eyes light up, especially those who once thought that wine wasn’t for them. I truly feel there is something for everyone in the wine industry. Whether you’re into science, geography, gastronomy, or travel, wine finds a way to connect with your curiosity. For those interested in mindfulness, wine tasting offers that too. It’s one of the few moments where you’re encouraged to pause, tune into your senses, be fully present and tune everything else out. There are also growing options for those interested in low, no and mid-strength beverages. Products such as alcohol-free wines help to create an inclusive wine experience for all, where no one has to compromise on quality or experience.

A meeting of minds

Another part of being more cognisant about what we’re drinking is bringing the bottle to life. I love to bridge the gap between the winemaker and the consumer. As someone who has spent more hours on virtual calls than I’d care to admit – the connectivity that wine brings is hugely important to me. From getting to know fellow industry professionals who share their stories so passionately, like meeting the winemaker based in South Africa heading up an all-female-led wine brand, to foot stomping grapes with a Douro Valley-based winemaker who prioritises biodiversity and preserving the natural ecosystems of their vineyards. I’m reminded that wine is ultimately about people and that same sense of connection rings true at my events too. Guests come to an event alone but leave with new wine pals – all because of this wonderful, shared interest.

I’m really excited about where the industry is heading and the part I get to play in helping to shape it. The wine industry is based in such rich history, while also being a perfect ground to create new ways for people from all walks of life to take part, enjoy and appreciate it. I’m grateful for organisations such as Be Inclusive Hospitality, who are playing a huge role in helping to improve accessibility in the industry and championing diverse talent. The future of wine feels more creative, inclusive and connected than ever before and I can’t wait to keep pouring into that.