Guide to Wine Podcast: Episode 7

So You Want to be a Winemaker with Damsel Cellars’ Mari Womack

Air Date: Wednesday, July 5th 2023

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How does a real estate agent without any formal wine education push past the obstacles of owning her own winery? Well, it starts with saying yes to every opportunity that comes your way and that is exactly what Mari Womack of Damsel Cellars did!

Mari was inspired to open her own winery while working in Seattle area restaurants where she fell in love with wine. While working in the hospitality industry she began a gradual interest in the wine space which led to her becoming an assistant winemaker. And it was ultimately when she saw the production process of wine, including the fermentation process and sourcing grapes, that she knew she had found her calling.

In today’s episode, Mari shares her journey of becoming a winery owner, how building relationships was what helped her through the process of owning a winery and how she leverages relationships in making wine today. She also shares the main challenge she faces as a winemaker (and it’s one that we can actually all relate to), how food and wine pairings are more modern now (aka beyond white wine for fish or poultry), and so much more! 

Be sure to listen until the end because Mari talks about a collaboration with a local restaurant owner and the lead singer of a well known band!

If you are ready to dive into this conversation with Mari, then grab a glass of your favorite wine, press play and let’s go!

Episode Highlights:

• Mari Womack’s journey into the restaurant and wine industry
• How to become a winemaker and winery owner without formal training
• The importance of relationship building and how it got Mari to where she is today
• Challenges and rewards in winemaking
• Modern wine pairings and how it elevates your dining experience
• Sustainable farming in the wine industry
• The top 3 wines from Damsel Cellars that Mari would recommend
• A fun collaboration with a well known singer and local restaurant owner

Tune in on your favorite podcast apps Apple, Google, Amazon, Spotify, Stitcher, and more!  If you’re loving this podcast, please rate, review and follow! 

Shop for Damsel Cellars wines here and use code JULY for 10% off your order through July 2023.

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