Cecelia Messina

I first learned about wine in Argentina; before traveling to South America, I hadn't even been what I would call a wine drinker. A memorable Malbec is what sparked my interest. I call Malbec the "Nerd" grape because no one knows it exists but, once it is discovered, people are pleasantly surprised with the results. This wine experience fueled my desire to open a small wine boutique and share the wonders of wine with others. So, in October 2001, I opened a small, neighborhood wine boutique that was reminiscent of a European wine cave. In 2006 I became a Certified Sommelier.
I bypass the typical reliance on French wines like Bordeaux for the less familiar varietals from Spain, Portugal and South America. In the USA, I typically choose great wines from Washington State and Oregon over commercially popular California. My bias is for smaller, family managed vineyards where I make discoveries that deliver rich taste and great value. I hope that my wine savvy can benefit everyone from the wine novice to the experienced wine drinker.
Other opportunities I have had to share my wine knowledge include assisting restaurateurs with their wine lists, publication of wine articles, working with event and travel planners and I am currently writing a book about wine grape varietals and their personalities.