Personal Background
Can you tell us a bit about your background and what brought you to Portland?
I’m originally from Mexico and moved to the U.S. when I was 12, settling in Eugene. After graduating high school, I spent a year abroad in France, living in the suburbs of Paris. That experience was incredible, but it also made me miss Mexico, so I returned to start college, majoring in liberal arts with a focus on graphic design. During that time, I often visited family in Eugene and Portland, and those trips left a big impression on me. In 2006, I decided to transfer schools and finish my degree in advertising at the Art Institute of Portland. The charm of Portland during the "Keep Portland Weird" days inspired me to make it my home.
How did you first become involved in your current field or community?
I grew up with wine as a part of my family traditions. My grandparents would pour us a little sherry to enjoy during Sunday dinners, and I was surrounded by Spanish wines from an early age. While I never imagined wine could become a career, I was lucky to stumble into the industry when I lived in Portland.
At the time, there was a charming wine bar called Kir—probably one of the first wine bars in the city. I was a regular there, and when they needed help, I started pitching in on slower nights. Since I was already familiar with their glass pours, it felt like a natural fit. We were working with organic and biodynamic wines from incredible small vineyards across Europe, which sparked my passion and set me on the path I’m on today.
Achievements and Contributions
What are some of your proudest achievements or milestones?
In hospitality, it’s easy to focus on external recognition, like James Beard awards and other accolades. While I’ve been part of such moments, I believe that focusing on awards can sometimes overshadow the true ethos of hospitality. My real achievements are in creating meaningful connections and contributing to experiences that make people feel welcome and cared for.
How has your identity influenced your work and contributions to the community?
I’m a social, people-oriented person, which makes me a natural fit for hospitality. My identity has also helped me create inclusive spaces, where people of all backgrounds can feel at ease exploring wine and building connections.
Challenges and Overcoming Them
What challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them?
Being a Mexican-Lebanese lesbian woman in Portland’s wine industry has been challenging because the field is often dominated by white men. I’ve also faced the added layer of being an immigrant, which some people forget when they see me as “just part of the industry.” Despite this, I’ve built a career over 17 years, proving that knowledge and passion can break barriers, even in a boys' club.
What advice would you give to others facing similar challenges?
We’re still building a path toward greater inclusivity, and it’s not easy. My advice is to keep showing up, pushing for integration, and creating spaces where others feel welcome.
Community Involvement
How do you stay connected with the local LGBTQ+ community?
It’s not always easy in Portland, as the community can feel divided, but I try to host inclusive wine tastings and events where people can gather in a safe space.
Are there any specific causes or organizations you are passionate about supporting?
Through my work in the wine industry, I strive to foster connection and inclusivity daily. My goal is to tie the community together and make everyone feel welcome.
Inspiration and Impact
Who or what inspires you the most in your personal and professional life?
One of my favorite books is Unreasonable Hospitality, which I consider my bible for how to create meaningful, impactful experiences in hospitality.
How do you hope to impact the community through your work and actions?
I want to break the stereotype that wine is a luxury and instead make it approachable and accessible. I’m passionate about showcasing natural, stable wines that are free of unnecessary chemicals—something that everyone can enjoy.
I also aim to foster inclusivity in the wine community, particularly for LGBTQ+ individuals, as we’re still working to break down norms and create a stronger, united space.
Future Goals and Aspirations
What are your future goals, both personally and professionally?
I want to help people feel more comfortable exploring wine—whether at a store or in a restaurant. Breaking down barriers and making wine approachable is a major goal of mine.
How do you see the community evolving, and what role do you hope to play in that evolution?
I believe wine is only as complicated as we make it. By creating inclusive spaces and sharing knowledge, I hope to continue building a community that feels welcoming and open, regardless of someone’s level of experience with wine.
Fun and Personal Interests
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I’m an avid runner, snowboarder, and love visiting amazing wine spots in Portland, such as Heavenly Creatures, Maurice, and E&R Wine. These are not only fantastic places for wine but are also LGBTQ+ friendly.
Can you share a fun fact or something people might not know about you?
I’m a full extrovert when it comes to socializing, but I also consider myself a discreet and private person—a mix of a social butterfly and an introvert.
Questions About Career and Passion for Wine
How did you first become interested in wine and decide to pursue it as a career?
I grew up with wine as part of everyday life—it was accessible in ways it often isn’t in the U.S. What began as a hobby turned into a career when I moved to Madrid to attend wine school and immerse myself fully in wine education.
What’s your favorite part of being a sommelier? Is there a specific moment or experience that made you fall in love with the profession?
I love the excitement and energy of introducing beginners to wine. Their enthusiasm and willingness to explore make the experience so rewarding. It’s especially fun when someone says they don’t like a particular wine, and I get to prove them wrong with the right bottle.
Can you describe your journey through wine education and how you achieved your credentials as a sommelier?
When I earned my credentials over a decade ago, the wine world wasn’t as celebrity-driven as it is now. I had an incredible mentor at Kir who guided me toward the right path in wine. As a Mexican-Lebanese lesbian woman, it was difficult navigating such a white, male-dominated industry, but I’m proud of the path I’ve carved out.
Where can people find out more about your work or connect with you?
You can follow me on Instagram: @yamzzz. I post about food, wine, and everything Portland—not just the wines I sell, but the vibrant community I’m a part of city of roses.
