To say that 2019 was a wild roller-coaster ride would be an understatement!

I started the year with a broken wrist; an unfortunate ice-skating accident. I guess I won’t be competing in the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. Ha…. Rehabbing post-surgery kept me out of commission for quite some time. However, during my recovery, my creative juices were flowing and starting a blog was just what the doctor ordered. It was something I wanted to do for a long time, but I was too apprehensive to put myself out there. With the encouragement of a dear friend, Nthabi, I started my blog Aroma Wine Co. to share a side of the wine industry that is generally unknown to the public.

In March of 2019, I said good-bye to my corporate job and later that month launched my blog. In April, I re-launched my consulting business and now find myself working relentlessly to offer premium branding and public relations strategy services to importers of European wines and individual brands, applying everything I’ve learned in my 20 years of experience. I am lucky to have met, interviewed, worked with, and not to mention been influenced by some of the most inspiring, genuine, and generous individuals in the business. I now put my collective experiences to work and hopefully provide similar influence and inspiration to others.

Some industry NEWS updating my earlier interviews:

Matthieu Yamoum, Wine Director at the Baccarat Hotel in NYC is currently working on his own Champagne label in partnership with Champagne Piper-Heidsieck that will launch at the Baccarat Hotel in the summer of 2020.

Yannick Benjamin, Head Sommelier at The University Club and Co-Founder of Wheeling Forward is now the Proprietor of Contento Restaurant in NYC. Contento will open its doors in February 2020.

Pierrick Bouquet, Founder of La Nuit en Rosé Festival is launching a new event concept focused on post ski gatherings called: ‘Après Ski Disco.’ The first event will kick off on February 22, 2020 at The Rooftop at Pier 17 in NYC. Click HERE for more details.

A BIG THANK YOU to all the wine industry individuals that have taken the time to meet with me, who have inspired me, and continue to graciously shine their influence on me.

Finally, A BIG SHOUT OUT to my family and friends for their ongoing support.

I look forward to meeting and collaborating with many more in 2020.

I wish all of you a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year!

Anna