Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Sally Stewart . We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Sally, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
I look a lot different than I used to: I’ve yet to meet another wine professional that has received an ALS diagnosis. I was diagnosed with ALS at only 32 years old. I went from being a sommelier running up and down the stairs to perform wine service in a fine dining restaurant to sitting in my wheelchair running my wine shop from a seated position.
I had to learn how to evolve and continue to grow even though I’m physically limited. I chose to pivot my career rather than giving up, and I think the challenges I’ve faced have made me a much better and complete person. A shift in perspective can illuminate aspects of life you were previously blind to. I’m a better professional because of my disability.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I co-owner of Denver Wine Merchant with my life partner Steven Washuta.
We opened our shop in August 2020 as a result of moving across country after Covid changed everything in NYC. We decided it was the best time for us both to shift our careers since the restaurant world was very uncertain in 2020 and my diagnosis resulted in having to quit my job in Manhattan because I was no longer able to walk unassisted.
We had intentions to open our dream wine shop for some time, and we finally did it despite the bleak circumstances of the world and my health. Our shop is dedicated to the best beverages the world has to offer: carefully curated wine selection featuring classic and natural wines from the best producers and exciting regions. The best local beer and cider along with a concise but thoughtful selection of spirits.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
For me, food has always been a focal point in my life. I spent countless hours in the kitchen with my mom leaning cooking techniques and trying different recipes and flavor combinations. I think a strong background in food is a helpful foundation for a wine career. Exposure to complex flavors and ingredients will only enhance your ability to taste and understand flavors in wine.
I have a degree in Hospitality from the University of Houston. A background in service helps people in wine roles remember they exist to serve and being the most warm and welcoming person possible is the only way to approach wine with guests
Lastly, I’ve always had an affinity for language. It helps to have a depth of knowledge in language and the ability to describe complex flavors and textures in wine. It is important to be able to discuss and describe wine to guests and customers in a proficient manner!
How would you spend the next decade if you somehow knew that it was your last?
ALS is s scary disease. It is known to be a terminal illness with no viable treatments or cure. I have to get beyond my body and appreciate the health I do have. I have to express gratitude for all the wonderful things and people I have in my life. I may not physically look like I once did, but I’ve enhanced other aspects of my life that I previously took for granted with a healthy body. My views on life in general are vastly different than they were prior to my diagnosis, and in many ways I’ve got this terrible and debilitating disease to thank for my stronger passion and love for life.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://denverwinemerchant.com/
- Instagram: denverwinemerchant
Image Credits
Sally Stewart
