Since last year Winston McQuitery has had an incredible journey in the world of wine. Here’s what he had to say.
“Since we spoke last year, I realized I wanted to dive deeper into my wine education. That’s when I decided to pursue the Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW) certification. This internationally recognized credential is especially practical for someone in sales. Although the course was a bit pricey, I took the leap when my company offered to support me. A year later, I’m proud to say I am now a CSW, with plans to aim for a WSET Diploma in the next couple of years.
Balancing my studies with my role as a Sales Supervisor and my family life has been quite a challenge. With two stepdaughters and a lively five-year-old son, I found myself studying for hours each night and dedicating eight hours on weekends. It was tough, but the effort was worth it.
The wine industry has also seen some interesting changes. Overall, wine sales have dipped, but Sauvignon Blanc is still holding strong. Prosecco remains popular, especially when paired with Aperol. One surprising trend is the growth of the non-alcoholic wine segment, along with a rising interest in “better-for-you” options, such as natural and organic wines.
I’m particularly excited about the emergence of sparkling wines from regions traditionally known for still wines, like Sparkling Albarino from Rias Baixas in Spain. I’m also curious to see how long the trend of bourbon barrel-aged wines lasts, consumers seem to be shifting toward lighter, lower-calorie choices.
I feel more confident guiding consumers in selecting wines. I encourage folks to have a clear idea of their preferences, whether it’s a gift or personal enjoyment. As we move into this year, I see younger generations being heavily influenced by social media, which is reshaping brand popularity in the wine world. Cheers to new adventures in wine!”
"The Certified Specialist of Wine certification showcases a high level of wine knowledge."