Summer is in full swing, and it’s time to wine up! Get to know Sommsation, an online shop modernizing the way people share experiences over wine by connecting wineries, wine experts, the wine obsessed, and the wine curious in exclusive tastings. Danielle Diliberti, CEO of the company, shares everything you need to know. Listen up!
Danielle, what sparked the idea behind Sommsation?
Wine lovers should have access to exceptional wine, right? Most wine drinkers view every bottle of wine as a potentially great experience, so we launched a wine-experience company to simplify things. We developed the concept during a global pandemic, a time that forced people to think and live outside of traditional norms. It’s an opportunity for everyone involved to experience great wine, talk about the artistry, and learn more about the wines, winemakers, and vineyards behind the magic.
Tell us about how Sommsation works.
Sommsation’s shop is a highly curated selection of the best independent wines available. We’re here to help make it easy for wine lovers to access the best in the world of wine through our online shop and personalized sommelier-led tastings. We champion family-owned independent wineries and the sommeliers who have perfected their craft, so our clients can trust they’re getting the best. Our website makes it easy to purchase directly or connect with our concierge.
Where does the Sommsation journey begin?
Clients can choose a 90-minute or 60-minute virtual tasting, or host a private event, with a sommelier on video or in person. We help clients select the wine tasting from a range of curated experiences based on a theme, varietal, or region they might be interested. Clients can also self-select their tasting. Sommsation’s concierge is always available to provide helpful tips when selecting the experience or to customize an experience. Each tasting comes with three full bottles of wine for the 90-minute tasting, or two bottles for the 60-minute tasting, shipped directly to guests. Sommsation pairs clients with a professional sommelier who leads and engages guests, sharing stories about the winery, how each of the wines was produced, what makes them distinctive, food pairing suggestions, and more.
How are you catering to Hamptonites this summer?
This summer is all about independence. We want people to enjoy great wine and the summer months by celebrating things that make you happy. “Think Independent, Drink Independent.” The Sommsation Lounge will be making its way through the Hamptons this summer and will be at select hotels (details coming soon!). We’re focused on luxury and glamour, with a hint of edginess.
What are your top tips for purchasing wine?
It always helps to have some ideas about what you’re looking for. Knowing your budget, a particular country or region, the name of the grape, or certain style of wine can help inform your selection. Ask for help from our experts! Keep an open mind. And as the old saying goes, You can’t judge a book by its cover, and the same applies to wine. Try not to buy wine based on the cool look of the bottle or label.
What wine are you loving right now?
I’m really enjoying Paradise Springs’ Pink Ash Sparkling Rosé, 2019, TriCal’s Jalama Beach Blend, 2019 and Addax’s Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, 2019. More general, I’m always happy with a bold Napa Valley cabernet.
What foods do you usually pair with your wine?
Almost any seafood with a crisp white wine, grill a steak and enjoy that with a bold cabernet, and sip rosé or sparkling wine with or without cheese. I lean into our sommeliers often to get new ideas on food and wine pairings.
Looking ahead, what can we expect from Sommsation in the near future?
Sommsation’s Lounge will be at the Tribeca Festival in June and then look for our Hamptons pop-ups. We’re also launching a Sunday Series, where clients can join a webinar for sommelier-led tastings and to engage with our community. And of course, we’ll continue to offer a growing selection of curated wines. There are many exciting things to come for Sommsation this year!
