• What is your current position now? How did you find your way to this job?

I am currently a wine specialist for Domaine Serene at their Bend wine lounge. I came to this job from an alcohol distribution company called Southern Glazers Wine & Spirits. Before that job I was a bartender and began my wine and alcohol experience at 4 Spirits Distillery in Corvallis at their tasting room. 

• Why a career in the wine industry?

Funny enough, I always said I never wanted to enter into the wine industry due to the oversaturation in the Willamette Valley. I never thought I would find my place in it and wanted to focus more on the distillery side of things. Since I’ve been with Domaine Serene I’ve certainly realized the scope of the wine industry in Oregon, and I think I’ve found my place. 

• What did you study in college and how did your studies and experiences prepare you for becoming a wine specialist?

In college, I majored in Communications and minored in Spanish. Every part of my job involves talking to people and teaching them about wine – that’s one of my favorite parts! I love discussing wine preferences with a guest and finding one of our wines that suit their palate. Communication is key to this; I need to be able to read the room and use certain skills and theories in order for a guest to have a successful experience with us. 

• What is your favorite part of the position right now?

I love finding wines that appeal to my guests. Since we only grow Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, a lot of people come in expecting to not like our wines due to past experiences they may have had with those varietals. It’s fun to see palates change and grow. 

• What are three personal skills that aid in your success in your current role?

I am empathetic, a hard worker, and friendly – all things a good service worker needs to succeed in the business and especially in a wine sales position. 

• What is something you are looking forward to?

Next Tuesday, March 8th, I will be participating in our first Legends Tasting at our Bend location. High-tier wine club members will have the opportunity to sample wines from our founder, Ken Evenstad’s, personal wine cellar. There is a wine from the year I was born (1997) and one from 1985 that we’ll be trying! I’m most excited to be able to expand my wine knowledge. 

• Do you have any advice for a recent college graduate looking for a job in the wine & spirits industry?

Try everything! In my experience, the best bosses have been the ones that worked from the ground up. Take the “lame” sales job that requires you to cold-call clients. Take the part-time tasting room position. All experience is good experience and I guarantee that you’ll learn even if you aren’t feeling like you are.

Thank you to Allie for sharing her experiences as a recent graduate beginning her career in the Oregon wine industry. If you are interested in learning about Domaine Serene or visiting one of their tasting rooms, please visit www.domaineserene.com! Feel free to message Allie on LinkedIn for questions: linked.com/alexandrafield.