The Journey of Lea, a Wine Educator and Entrepreneur
Lea Gatinois, the founder of Amble Wine, which supports wine education practices, is initially coming from a background in hospitality management and digital marketing. Her passion for wine was ignited during her trip to Germany's Moselle region, where she discovered the beauty of riesling. This experience inspired her to further specialize in the wine industry through a Master's program at Kedge Wine School and achieving the WSET level 4 (Diploma) qualification. Lea shares that exploring the wine world has been filled with fascinating and memorable moments. From discovering the unique architectural beauty of each estate (e.g. Cos d’Estournel, Haut-Bailly, Opus One) to learning about their diverse winemaking techniques, every region leaves a lasting impression. Meeting the passionate people behind the wines and immersing herself in their knowledge and traditions have been a truly enriching experience. Whether it was in France, Italy, Germany, Portugal, Spain, Slovenia, Greece, South Africa, or most recently, California, each encounter has deepened her appreciation for the world of wine.
DB: In what ways has your professional journey changed you personally and influenced your perspective on the wine industry?
LG: I wake up every morning feeling fortunate to be deeply connected to what I do. The wine industry is a vast and ever-evolving realm that requires continuous learning and adaptability. This experience has fostered my appreciation for the rich disciplines involved in wine production, and it has reinforced my commitment to promoting wine culture in a practical and friendly way.
DB: In your opinion, what are some of the key factors or trends driving innovation in the wine tourism industry today ?
LG: Several key factors and trends are driving innovation in the wine tourism industry today. One of them is the increasing demand for unique and authentic experiences. Wine tourists are seeking immersive experiences that go beyond traditional tastings, such as vineyard visits, winemaking workshops, and food and wine pairings. Technology also plays a significant role, enabling virtual tours, online booking platforms, and personalised recommendations. Sustainability is definitely a must, with travellers seeking eco-friendly and socially responsible wine tourism options. Overall, the key is to adapt to changing consumer preferences and offer memorable experiences that respect our planet.
DB:. How do you see yourself contributing to the innovative projects in the wine world? Are there any specific initiatives or approaches that you find particularly exciting or promising?
LG: At Amble Wine, we contribute to innovative projects in the wine world by developing a unique approach to learning wine. Our focus is on autonomous and active practice, enabling long-lasting retention of wine knowledge through visual, practical, affordable and eco-friendly tools. We initially started with physical workbooks on wine maps, wine tasting, and overall knowledge, and we are excited to announce our plans to expand into the digital realm. Stay tuned for more updates!Our modern approach extends beyond content to our communication style, which is non-intimidating and non-pretentious. We strive to demystify wine and create a friendly and approachable atmosphere for wine enthusiasts. Furthermore, we foster innovation through collaborations with like-minded individuals in the industry who share our passion for promoting wine education and culture. By partnering with others, we can explore new and exciting initiatives together.
Our commitment to condensing complex information into user-friendly formats and embracing creativity, quality, and eco-responsibility allows us to make wine education a practical, friendly, and long-lasting experience. We are dedicated to providing wine lovers with the tools they need to engage with wine confidently and enjoyably.
DB: What advice would you give to aspiring women professionals looking to enter the wine industry or pursue a career in the wine world ?
LG:
Pursue education: Invest in your wine education (books, certifications) to deepen your knowledge, enhance your confidence and credibility.
Build a strong network: Connect with other professionals in the industry through events, conferences, and online communities. Networking can provide mentorship opportunities and open doors to collaborations.
Embrace your passion: Let your enthusiasm for wine shine through your work. Passion is contagious and can help you overcome challenges and stand out in the infinite possibilities competitive industry.
Stay curious and adaptable: The wine industry is constantly evolving, so it's important to stay curious, embrace new trends, and be open to learning and adapting.