wine is for everyone.

The world of wine can often feel intimidating, especially for those of us, like myself, who did not grow up with a family tradition of wine tasting or formal wine education. There is so much old history involved, and complex terminology, that can sometimes feel intimating, so it's easy to feel like wine is an exclusive club that only a select few get to join. But the truth is, wine is LITERALLY for everyone—no matter your background, your education, or your experience level. When I started to become curious about the perfect wine pairing with my dinner or what type of wine to gift a friend, that’s when I became open to new possibilities beyond what I was used to sipping at gala’s or what was shelved in my local liquor store (no shade!).

So think of the following as a few “things to know” while on your wine journey:

Breaking down the “wine snob” stereotype

One of the biggest hurdles that many people face when approaching wine is the perception that it’s something reserved for the elite. Words like “terroir,” “tannin,” and “vintage” can sound like a secret language, and let’s not even get started on how intimidating some wine tasting events can be.

The reality, though, is that wine is all about personal preference and enjoyment. Yes, there are technical terms and advanced concepts, but you don’t need to know them to appreciate a glass of wine. Everyone should explore wine at their own pace and not be made to feel inferior if you don’t know the difference between “old world” versus “new world” wines (I’m still confused myself lol).

Class is in session: education and exploration

As someone who works in higher education and values knowledge sharing, I can confirm that wine can be a deeply educational experience if you’re up for it. The variety of grapes, the differences in climate, the intricacies of the winemaking process—it’s all part of what makes wine such a fascinating subject to explore. But you don’t have to be an expert to start enjoying this world of discovery.

Embracing diversity and fostering a sense of belonging

Traditionally, the wine industry has been largely dominated by European influences, and it wasn’t until truth be told the pandemic, did I start to see/become exposed to diverse voices making significant strides within the industry. Whether it's women winemakers or producers of color there’s an exciting wave of diversity reshaping the world of wine today.

Wine is often seen as a communal experience, one that’s best enjoyed with others. Whether you're sharing a bottle over dinner, celebrating a special occasion, or simply winding down after a long day, wine has the unique ability to bring people together. But for too long, the wine industry has felt exclusive to certain groups.

Wine is for everyone

Ultimately, I want people to walk away with the understanding that wine is for everyone. As we all navigate the holiday season, please know that you don’t have to be wealthy, a wine connoisseur, a travel influencer, or even have an advanced knowledge of wine to enjoy it. The key is to approach wine with an open mind and a spirit of curiosity. It’s all about finding what you enjoy, and sharing that experience with others.

xoxo,

Ty-Juana