In a traditionally male-dominated industry, female sommeliers in Charleston are breaking the mold or Whether it’s the history, the science or the taste, women are drawn to wine — and they are finding their places in the industry — right at the top.
BRITTANY OLSON
Brittany Olson, owner of Love & Bunches, became a wine expert through The Court of Master Sommeliers because of her love of the stories behind the bottles: how the grapes are grown, the history of the regions and the people who work the land. Having helped develop the Wine Spectator award-winning list at Savi, as well as the Champagne Lounge in Cameillas at Hotel Bennett, Olson’s passion is pushing people beyond their comfort zones by guiding them to try something new. When creating tastings, Olson values clients’ trust in her selections, which she bases on the characteristics of the wines they already enjoy.
To host a private tasting, book an event or learn where Love & Bunches is popping up with her wine truck, visit LoveandBunches.com.
ELENI RIGAS
Eleni Rigas wine journey began in the vineyards of Marlborough, New Zealand, driving tractors and working long hours in the wine cellar during harvest. Developing an appreciation for the art and science behind the ancient craft, Rigas said, “It’s fascinating how wine is able to capture the taste of a place.” From living and traveling all over the world, she would know. Before moving to Germany to work in the Rheinhessen region, Rigas achieved her WSET 2 in London. When she returned to the U.S., she searched for a food and wine city and found Charleston. When shes not educating clients by demystifying the wine world and making it fun through her business, Wine & Talk About It, you can find Rigas creating nostalgic experiences for clients at Sorelle.
Book your next event with Rigas on WineandTalkAboutIt.com or visit her at Sorelle (ask for the women-made wine list).
KATE VANCE
Aside from Champagne, owner of Bubbles & Vines, WSET-certified sommelier Kate Vances favorite region is the Santa Lucia Highlands in California, where she was first drawn to the world of wine. Specializing in themed or classic blind tastings, Vance is also passionate about opening her clients’ minds to different varieties while educating them about the different qualities of the grapes through fun and competitive side-by-side comparisons. Additionally, Vance curates larger events, selecting the wines and pairing them with each course.
To book a blind tasting or to have Vance create your next event, visit Bubbles-and-Vines.com.
ABBY CIFARELLI
Currently working toward her WSET Level 3, Abby Cifarelli, owner of Sommnights, shares her favorite wine and cheese pairings at private events in clients’ homes or larger venues.
Although her role models in the beginning were males, Cifarelli noted that the industry is shifting, with more females making and sharing wine. Fascinated by the ever-changing industry trends, Cifarelli said, “There is always something new to learn on the growth journey.”
Pair your next event with Cifarelli at Sommnights.com.
By Sarah Rose
