From Sommelier to Soil: My Burgundy Adventure Awaits

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You won't believe Stephanie Wangui's leap from Noble Rot to Burgundy! Her journey is full of passion and a thirst for knowledge. Check it out!

A Leap into the Unknown: Embracing Change in Wine

When I first heard about Stephanie Wangui’s transition from a renowned sommelier at Noble Rot to training as a viticulturist in Burgundy, I couldn’t help but feel a rush of excitement. It reminded me of my own leap into the wine world years ago, where passion met opportunity. Just like many of us who have wandered through the winding vineyards, she was ready to get her hands dirty and dive deep into the craft of winemaking. Her journey is not just about changing locations; it’s about embracing an entire philosophy of wine production that few get to experience firsthand.

The Spark that Ignited Change

Stephanie met Jean-Marc Roulot during a vibrant trip exploring Grenache production in Spain, which planted the seeds for her adventure. Isn’t it fascinating how a single conversation can change the course of our lives? With every bottle opened and every grape tasted, she found herself drawn deeper into the world of viticulture. This resonates with my own experience visiting vineyards where my curiosity about grape varietals turned into a lifelong obsession. She shared how she had been contemplating this shift towards production for some time, echoing my own moments of introspection when faced with similar crossroads.

Leaving London Behind: A Bittersweet Farewell

The decision to leave London wasn’t easy for Stephanie. Like her, I remember the bittersweet feeling when I left familiar haunts behind for uncharted territories in wine country. “I will miss London very much,” she said, reflecting on her ties to the vibrant wine scene there while simultaneously looking forward to weekends filled with earthy soil instead of city noise. This duality captures what many wine enthusiasts experience—balancing their love for urban culture with an innate desire for the simplicity and authenticity found in nature.

What Lies Ahead: Immersing in Burgundy’s Magic

As she embarks on this new chapter, Stephanie is eager to absorb everything about Burgundy—a region known not just for its exquisite wines but also its intricate terroirs and storied history. There’s something magical about learning firsthand from those who’ve dedicated their lives to perfecting their craft. I recall my own thrill during vineyard internships where every day was filled with new discoveries. For her, this opportunity may lead to uncovering nuances in viticulture that are seldom discussed outside professional circles.

The Journey Continues: Beyond Grape Picking

Though she initially planned only a brief stint in Burgundy, her plans have expanded into an entire season—a testament to how deeply one can fall in love with this art form. As she prepares to roll up her sleeves and engage with the land, I’m reminded that every sommelier or enthusiast has an evolving story filled with unexpected turns. The essence of being involved in wine lies not merely in tasting but understanding its journey from vineyard to glass—an exploration that is both enriching and transformative.

FAQs About Stephanie’s Journey

Why did Stephanie Wangui leave Noble Rot?

Stephanie felt a calling towards viticulture after engaging deeply with the craft during her travels and discussions with industry leaders.

What will she do in Burgundy?

She will train as a viticulturist at Domaine Guy Roulot, immersing herself in grape growing techniques and regional practices.

How does this reflect on current trends in winemaking?

This trend highlights a growing interest among sommeliers to gain hands-on experience in production, blending service expertise with vineyard knowledge.

Photo by monica di loxley on Unsplash