A leap into the unknown
My interest in the world of wine began when I was 18, searching for something unique and meaningful to study. Choosing a major felt overwhelming, like deciding my fate. And I was extremely indecisive. However, when I toured California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo’s campus, I became intrigued by the school’s “learn by doing” philosophy that allowed a more tactile approach to education and had students taking classes in their major from day one. Once I discovered the Wine & Viticulture program, which offered an unconventional path in a field I had no idea existed before, that’s when I felt—for the first time—a gentle, inward tug pulling me towards the exciting unknown. More realistically, my enthusiasm for environmental stewardship helped legitimize my decision, and so I chose a concentration in viticulture, eager to connect with the land through a new lens.
At first, I was captivated by the romance of the industry: rolling vineyards under golden sunlight, the swirl of hidden aromas in a crystal glass, and the possibility of traveling to emerging and historic wine regions across the globe. What I naively didn’t realize was how multifaceted the world of wine truly is.
The romanticism subsided once my coursework quickly revealed the deep scientific foundation that enology and viticulture demanded, particularly in chemistry—a subject I had always found challenging in high school. Additionally, having grown up outside of California nowhere near a farming community, I often felt out of my depth. The majority of my peers had grown up in wine-producing regions or had family ties to the industry, while I was starting from absolutely nothing. Yet, with every class, I became more fascinated by the nuances of soil science, fermentation, and the artistry required to grow and make great wine.
My first harvest in Northern California reinforced my decision and solidified my growing passion. The work was tough: 12-hour-plus days of steaming barrels, sorting grapes, and cleaning equipment, but it was also humbling and deeply rewarding. Many people told me that once you do your first harvest, you either love it or hate it. I wouldn’t say I was sold on either side. . . but, I began to see wine as more than just a consumer packaged good. Winegrowing is the culmination of tireless labor, centuries of tradition, and constant innovation. Experiencing firsthand the effort and care that goes into creating each bottle of wine gave me a profound appreciation for the industry, and a profound appreciation for my own physical capabilities.
Working in different sectors—viticulture, winemaking, and tasting rooms—has shown me how interconnected and dynamic the wine and spirits world is. Each role contributes to a greater story and the real magic lies in their overlap: how science and nature informs the art of winemaking, how culture shapes consumer trends, and how marketing tells the story of each bottle. This intersection of disciplines continues to inspire me, driving my desire to learn more and contribute to the industry. What began as a leap into the unknown has now become a lifelong passion that offers endless opportunities to grow, discover, and connect with others.
