It was an absolute pleasure to sit down with Dette Cortese and talk shop, and by shop we mean wine. As with any influencer in their own field, Dette is quite knowledgeable in the world of wine as well as an avid aficionado herself; one almost has to be to really appreciate the intricate flavors and expressions of wine. Checkout her journey below:
Where have been the most magical places for the best food and wine, or just a breathtaking view with a nice bottle of wine?
D: To me, Livermore stole my heart. They have amazing wine and delicious food in that area. They have several wineries with incredible views. You are surrounded by our golden hills while you are sipping on delicious wine overlooking the vineyards that put California on the Map. Outside of California, the most magical place I’ve been to for food, wine and views would most definitely be Greece.
Everyone on the wine journey started somewhere. How did you get into wine? And is it true, that sometimes a $10 wine can be better than a $150 bottle of wine.
D: My dad has always been into wine and that is where I started. I began visiting a lot of wineries in California with a friend and my brother and fell in love not only with the amazing wine California produces, but the history, people, and wine knowledge that comes with visiting a winery.
It is true that some wines can be $10 and others can be $150. But wine is all about your preference. With my blog, I am trying to make wine more approachable. There is nothing wrong with liking a $10 bottle. Price ranges for various reasons, but in the end it all depends on your taste buds. Drink what you like, don’t be embarrassed if you only like cheap wine– more bang for your buck 😉
What advice would you give wineries or wine companies looking to use the Instagram social media platform to grow their brands image?
D: My advice would be to have fun with it. Social media is a lot more work than most people think, but it can be fun. Be sure to show your personality through your pictures. There are plenty of wineries and wine companies in the world, so be you- or your brand! Stand out and have fun. Make sure you post consistently, engage, and keep in mind what your audience likes to see.
The greatest lesson you’ve learned in this business is….
D: Patience. Business is tough but your hard work pays off. I learned to not care about the following but more about who I am and what I want to do with the business. Instagram is hard to work with as it is constantly changing. There will always be ups and down, but keeping your eyes on your goals helps you push through the hard times.
2020 has brought a lot of misery to the world. But what do you think personally the year has taught you and with those lessons what do you plan to do differently in the years to come?
D: 2020 was tough, but I think it taught us all what is important in life. I have always been a happy go lucky person, but 2020 really put in perspective what is really important. Time moves fast, you have to learn to slow it down and enjoy it. There will always be set backs, but you have to keep moving forward and enjoy life’s wild ride. Life is too short, don’t waste any of the time that is given to you.
What are some of your favorite varietals?
D: Cabernet Sauvigon hands down. I am also a big Chardonnay fan. (What can I say, California’s best 🙂 )
In your view, what are the 3 essential characteristics of a good influencer?
D: Be true to yourself
Be honest
and be consistent.
Is there anyone who inspires you in this industry?
D: I have some many people that inspire me, especially after starting my Share a Sip Series on Youtube. I’ve met so many incredible people killing it in their business. I’ve met so many people in the wine industry through my blog and it’s been an incredible ride. I don’t think I can name the amount of people who truly inspire me. But come to Livermore and meet all the amazing people who have inspired me to keep going. It is one BIG family in the Livermore Valley.
Most memorable bottle you’ve had as of late?
D: I’d say Marcellar Wine CollectionCabernet Sauvignon. I had it with my brother in law and we were impressed and bought a whole case. It was the first time Jack sold his wine. Can’t wait to try more of his wine.
Anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
D: Follow along in my journey. I love meeting my followers and seeing what they like. If you ever need any suggestions on wine or wineries to visit, hit me up. It is my favorite thing to help people find where to go or what wine to try. Also, if you have a small business and what to be part of my Youtube Channel “Share A Sip” email me at [email protected].
Stay classy my friends!
