Congratulations to Janice Robinson, SWS, for achieving highest honors in the Spanish Wine Scholar exam with Cru Consultancy.
About Janice:
I started to become interested in learning about grapes and wine soon after I started exploring what wines to have with dinner. It paralleled a growing interest in food that came with marrying an Italian-Canadian. After making our own wedding wines I decided it was really time to learn more! So began my journey of wine study [my family will tell you I like to take exams] that has led me all over the world, both in my glass and beyond. I currently have the pleasure of working with Vessel Liquor as part of their consumer education team and I host private tastings. I love to learn about, talk about, and explore wine!! I am always tracking down unique varieties to share with friends and clients – encouraging them to taste outside the box. I also love to travel to wine regions including, most recently, to Sant Sadurni d’Anoia.
I have completed WSET Level 3 certification and both the French and Italian Wine Scholar programs through Wine Scholar Guild. I also have my Italian Wine Specialist designation from the North American Sommelier Association. The Spanish Wine Scholar program provided me with a comprehensive and insightful education into an important piece of European wine history and offered me a glimpse into lesser known but not less important regions of Spain.
One of the most important components of my wine studies has been the incomparable instruction of Sharon McLean who has led the great percentage of my formal wine education. Her ability to bring what is in the glass to life and her wine history geekdom is to be revered, and I do.
Next up on my wine study journey - WSG Champagne Masters program, maybe WSET Diploma – and lots more travelling. I have at least 4+ additional regions in Spain to get to. Regions I would not have been aware of without SWS.
Having completed the SWS program provides me deeper knowledge into the breadth of Spanish Wine. This affords me the opportunity to not only pick wines for my own consumption with a better understanding of what fits with my palate but also for making the best suggestions for others. Bring on the Fiesta!!
