An Influencer Spotlight from Sarah of Corks Unleashed
We were interested to learn more about the minds and passions behind some of our favorite wine accounts. The following are a few pieces of insight gathered from wine influencer, Sarah, of Corks Unleashed
Read below to find out what we asked her!
Image provided by Corks Unleashed
1) What gets you most excited about wine?
There is not just one thing that gets me excited but MANY things that I love about wine. It began a long time ago with taking little sips with my dad when I was 5 years old (yes, true story!) & I became fascinated. Over the years, my interest grew when I worked for high end restaurants talking and hanging out with SOMMS and other wine industry folks. I became more and more hooked. In 2012, I decided to get my first job with a winery in Malibu and soon after went for my CSW & WSET level 2 & 3. I realized wine is more than just a drink but a true connection to people, places and things. It can transport you anywhere in the world like a piece of art or music. The stories of peoples dreams coming true by putting everything on the line to make wine is awe-inspiring to me. The memories I have and will continue to share with old friends and new are immeasurable. It will always be a huge part of my life.
2) Do you consider yourself an Enthusiast? Connoisseur? Recreational? Other?
I definitely consider myself quite the enthusiast! When I talk to folks about wine, my face lights up & and I am in my happy place. I am pretty sure people can feel that energy and my hope is that it sparks something in them as well. My friends on the other hand would probably describe me as a connoisseur. I am always the go-to girl for bringing wine or making the recommendations for dinners, holidays or gatherings, and I don't mind it one bit!
3) What do you look for when selecting new bottles to try?
Literally, EVERYTHING and ANYTHING. I have my go-to producers or regions that I am loyal to but I very much enjoy walking into a wine shop (I have my local favorites) and telling the guys to recommend something different & funky. I hate to shop but if I have to pick up wine, I can wander around in the store for hours.
4) Are you loving any particular varietals lately?
I go through "wine moods". Sometimes I just want one particular varietal for a week or few days because I am digging it so much. But then I am on to the next "wine drinking adventure." I have many favorites so please do not ask me the dreadful question, "if I could only have one wine the rest of my life, what would it be?" Ugh, such torture! Food, company solo drinking, weather, etc. all play a deciding factor with what's in my glass.
5) What experience cannot be fully enjoyed without the right bottle of wine?
Any kind of celebration must have a toast and its bad luck to toast with water! And, I am all about quality time with the people I love so it almost always includes wine. I drive my friends crazy because they know I have to cheers every single time we hang out with every bottle we open, haha! Wine is the special ingredient that loosens people up and its a guaranteed good time. No Negative Nancies allowed! From pulling the cork to swirling and sipping, every experience is special.