Q: What does a typical tasting experience look like?

A: My wine tasting lessons are relaxed and fun! I’ll guide you through each wine with demonstrations, insights, and approachable tasting techniques—no snobbery here! I tailor the experience to your group’s preferences and style, whether it’s a birthday party, anniversary, or just a special night with friends. It will feel like an entertaining and engaging wine lesson! 

Q: Are you a representative of a retail wine company and will you be pushing wine sales during your session?

A: No, I am not a sales associate or a wine consultant tied to a wine company. I am completely independent--a small business owner who just enjoys teaching others about wine and bringing community together. I love to give recommendations of wine and local wineries/wine bars, but I won't be pushing sales onto you or your guests. Instead, I'll be sending them a wine list after the experience so they know where they can purchase the wines they loved.

Q: Do you provide the wine for the tasting?

A: To follow California regulations, I operate as a dry hire, which means clients provide the wine for ther tasting experience. But don't worry--I make the process super easy. I can send you a customized shopping list, links to order online, or we can even use wines you already have at home. You get full flexibility and cost-effectiveness by choosing bottles that fit your budget.

Q: Are you a sommelier?

A: I hold a Level 1 Sommelier certificate and I have years of experience in facilitating private wine tasting sessions and tours of wine-making production at a top tier winery in Temecula, CA. I also teach college courses and lead professional development workshops for college personnel for a living, so I have a very fun and engaging teaching style!

Q: Can you help me with food pairings?

A: Absolutely! For an additional fee for groups up to 6 guests, I’ll include a cheese pairing component to elevate your tasting session. There is a small additional fee per person beyond 6 guests.

Q: What areas do you serve?

A: I’m based in Chula Vista, CA and primarily serve clients in the greater San Diego County area. If you’re a bit further out, let’s chat—I’m happy to see if we can make it work!

Q: How far in advance should I book?

A: I recommend reaching out at least 4-6 weeks before your preferred date, especially if you’re planning a larger gathering. We also need time leading up to the event to discuss and finalize your wine tasting flight and any other details to make your experience perfect. I’ll do my best to accommodate your schedule!

Q: Do you have liability insurance?

A: Yes, I am licensed and insured as a wine education facilitator for peace of mind. 

Q: How does payment work?

A: To secure your wine tasting lesson, I require a 50% deposit or $200 (whichever is lower) at the time of booking confirmation. This helps me hold the date for you and begin preparing the tasting experience! I also have other options for securing your experience if you are having your guests pay for themselves. I accept payment via Venmo, Zelle, credit card (in-person during the experience), or cash. 

Q: What if I need to cancel or reschedule?

A: I understand that plans can change! I’ll do my best to accommodate rescheduling requests whenever possible! If you need to cancel, please let me know at least 7 days before your tasting date to be eligible for a full refund of your deposit. If you cancel within 7 days of the event, your deposit will be forfeited since I’ve set aside that time just for you and I will have already done most of the prep work. 

Q: Do you charge a travel fee?

A: I offer complimentary travel to events located within 25 miles of Chula Vista, CA. For events outside this area, a modest travel fee applies to help cover additional time and mileage.

Distance from Chula Vista, CA 91915:

• 0–25 miles = Included--no fee

• 26–40 miles = $35

• 41–60 miles = $60

• 61–80 miles = $90

Any event located more than 80 miles outside of my 25-mile service radius is considered a Destination Tasting. Because these events require extended travel and take up my full day, additional arrangements apply:

• A destination event minimum of $750 (applies toward per-person costs)

• A long-distance travel fee at $1.50/mile (round trip)

• One night of hotel accommodations at $225 flat rate (to be included in your invoice)

Not sure if your location is within the free radius? Just send me an email (ea.wine.edu@gmail.com) with the address, and I’ll confirm your rate before you proceed to book.