Known locally as the “Wine Evangelist,” Erlinda is a certified wine educator, columnist, and sommelier who teaches about wine in an engaging and approachable manner. Her wine column #WINEDERLUST appeals to wine enthusiasts and novices alike, while her sold-out seminars, held in pop-up locations around our area, are high-energy, engaging and educational. As ABC Columbia's resident Sommelier, Erlinda also teaches #WINESCHOOL on morning TV.  

 

Working with her industry colleagues, Erlinda helps local and international beverage retailers and suppliers engage with the community.  She's organized wine festivals, launched restaurant wine programs, and reported on the local wine scene.  She hosts intimate wine discovery appointments at local venues and creates private educational events. Through her passion project, ViníCola, Erlinda has helped our community experience wine in a new, interactive way. ​

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Erlinda earned her Certified Specialist in Wine credential from  the Society of Wine Educators and received the Level 3 Award with Merit from the globally-recognized Wine Studies Education Trust.  Erlinda also holds the Level 1 certification from the renowned International Court of Master Sommeliers and was awarded the Certified Sherry Wine Specialist credential from the prestigious Regulatory Council of Jerez, Spain. She is an experienced presenter, instructor, writer and taster.

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