Master Sommelier Wine Expert

A highly accomplished Master Sommelier wine expert, this professional brings a uniquely approachable style to the world of wine education and service. With a background rooted in hotel administration from Cornell University, she launched her career through elite culinary and hospitality roles, including managing fine dining at Le Cirque and Helmsley Palace Hotel. She later pivoted into the wine industry, inspired by mentorship under Kevin Zraly of Windows on the World.

She became the fifth woman in the world to earn the Master Sommelier title in 1997, and is currently a second-year Master of Wine candidate. With additional credentials such as Advanced Certified Wine Professional (ACWP), French Wine Scholar, and California Wine Appellation Specialist, her academic and sensory credentials are unmatched. Her work spans education, consulting, publishing, and theatrical wine presentations, including Champagne sabering.

As a leader at Planet Grape® LLC, she offers wine education, entertainment, and consulting services. She is also the creator of the SIX WEEK WINE EXPERT program and author of the grape goddess® guide series. Her deep industry experience—spanning sommelier service, distribution, sales, and writing—positions her as one of the most well-rounded and dynamic voices in the wine world today.

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