Why is there so much uproar in the wine industry about celebrity wines and influencers? Sit down with us and Carol and see how the new age social media influencers are leaving their mark on the day old age industry of wine. Meet Carole E. of Instagram’ Sipwithcen.
Carol lets kick things off with you telling us how you got into wine.
CE: I have always enjoyed a glass of wine, but never really appreciated it or had a passion for it at restaurants. I would usually just ask the server what wine they thought would pair best and order their recommendation. It was not till quarantine that I found myself more curious about wines and pairings. I love to cook so I wanted to learn more about wine in general. I took the WSET Level 2 course, and my appreciation really grew as well as my knowledge.
What has been your most memorable wine experience thus far? and most memorable wine bottle?
CE: It has only been a short while, but my most memorable was my first collaboration with a rosé company. I was just so excited that a brand trusted me and saw a little bit of potential in me. I only had about 500 followers at the time.
What advice would you give wineries or wine companies looking to use the Instagram social media platform to grow their brands image?
CE: I think Instagram is a plus for any brand. It helps with brand awareness. I would tell wineries when partnering with “influencers” to make sure they are genuine. There are so many influencers in the wine industry that buy followers, likes, and comments. It is unfortunate that those are the ones the wineries or wine brands usually use and pay. When I feel like they are stealing from the companies and doing more harm than good.
Carol there are a lot of amateurs out there that are terrified of the wine world with so many selections available. For the very beginners, how do they get started learning about wine, and really enjoying their journey?
CE: The best way to learn about wine is to drink wine. Try different varietals. It is very intimidating not knowing the lingo or the different varietals. That is why I started sipwithcen for the basic drinker that is curious about wine but does not know what’s well. It is easy to find wines and simple to read reviews.
What are your favorite varietals and why?
CE: My favorite is Pinot Noir because it’s the most difficult grape to grow, knowing all the struggles required with growing and harvesting, it is a wine that I appreciate.
How important is health, fitness and living that healthy lifestyle to you?
CE: Health and fitness is important to me, but I am a huge believer in balance. Treat yourself, but also take care of yourself. I try to work out 3 to 4x a week and cook healthy. I try to limit my drinking as well during the week.
You are what you eat, what are you?
CE: Dark Chocolate! I cannot go a day without eating chocolate…. Sweet, strong, and sometimes spicy.
Who or what inspires you? Why?
CE: My kids inspire me daily to be the best version of myself so they can have a mother they can look up too. They inspire me to be healthy so I can keep up with them, gain more knowledge in the things I am passionate about so I can teach them, and they inspire me to pursue the things I love.
The greatest lesson you have learned in this business is….
CE: To be yourself! Some brands will love you and some will not. You cannot be everyone’s cup of tea especially when you are champagne.
On a personal note, what are some of the most important things in your life?
CE: The most important thing to me is keeping peace of mind. Staying away from anything that may be negative or distracting. To stay positive, kind, and giving.
Anything else you’d like to share with us?
CE: Just thankful for this opportunity and being able to share a little bit about myself and sipwithcen. It has been less than a year and I am so thankful for the wine community, every follower, brand collaboration, free product, and interview. I do not take it lightly and hope to help spread brand awareness and help businesses, especially small businesses in any way. Many do not know, but I have a degree in Digital Marketing and that is where my real focus is long term.
