Houston, Texas is gearing up for its 13th annual Wine & Food Week . An event that has been hailed as one of the most “magnificent” wine & food events in the country. I had the incredible opportunity to interview Cupcake Vineyards winemaker, Jessica Tomei, who will be at the Ladies of the Vine Tasting event on June 9, 2017.

JESSICA TOMEI

Jessica has spent more than 10 years chasing the vines through some of the world’s finest wine regions.She takes a hands-on approach to winemaking, which starts in the vineyard. She ensures grapes reach the perfect ripeness for the wines. She brings out the truest grape expression for each varietal, letting the vineyard shine through to create rich, creamy and delectable wines.

Interview

When did you know that wine was your calling? 

I didn’t realize it was my true calling until I worked my first harvest and walked through the Pinot Noir vineyards in the Carneros region of Sonoma

What separates your wine from other winemakers?

One of the best things about wine is that there are so many choices, styles, varietals, and regions. I like to make wine that is balanced and food friendly. One of my favorite things to do is to have meals with family, friends and delicious wine.

One big misconception, if any, about wine?

I think one of the biggest misconceptions is that you have to be an expert to choose wine and drink it. Wine should be an ongoing exploration and not intimidating. Keep trying different wines and varietals depending on what you are having for dinner or dessert. Have wine with a fancy dinner, but also with popcorn and a movie. Less rules!

What advice would you give someone looking to get into the wine industry?

There are so many career avenues in the wine industry. You can be a farmer, winemaker, sommelier, hostess, chef, marketer, salesperson, lawyer, accountant, operations coordinator, and more. If you want to grow grapes or make wine, you will need to like getting your hands dirty and working long hours. Harvest time does not abide by normal 8-5 hours 

As a woman in a mostly male dominated industry, what has been your hardest challenge?

I have been in the industry for 18 years, which has been mainly dominated by men especially in positions of leadership. As the winemaker, your creation is constantly being judged and critiqued, so I often feel like I need to prove myself. I am not naturally competitive, so I don’t like that feeling of boasting or having to prove myself. I want the wine to speak for itself and the place where it was grown. My job is to get that into the bottle

 Favorite wine to give as a Host/Hostess gift (red, white, blends etc)?

I love to give red blends and sparkling wine

What are your feelings on food pairings (white=fish red=beef etc) myth or no?

Again – no rules. Drink what you like, and keep tasting and experimenting. You may end up loving a Syrah with cedar plank salmon, a Riesling with popcorn, or Sparkling Rosé with a burger

Thank you for stopping by to read my interview with Jessica.

Hope you enjoyed learning more about her as much as I did!

Much Love to you all,

Alley

 

*Find a Cupcake Vineyards Retailer click HERE

*To purchase wine online click HERE

*To purchase Wine & Food Week Tickets Click HERE