Hello, I'm Cynthia.
My journey with wine began unexpectedly. I came to South Florida dreaming of becoming a chef, but while working at a wine shop during culinary school, something clicked. I realized that a good dish is made extraordinary with the right wine—and that wine connects history, geography, culture, and people in ways few things can.
Since then, I've had the privilege of serving the King of Spain, building award-winning wine lists at the Mandarin Oriental and The Biltmore, and traveling to wine regions across the globe. I've earned every certification I could get my hands on, won a few awards along the way—but what I love most is sharing that first spark of discovery with someone new to wine.
Advanced Sommelier, CMS
WSET Level 3
Level 1 Sake
James Beard 2011
My Philosophy
I want you to feel what I felt when I fell in love with this industry: the experience of dining, the music, the service, the aroma—yet in a simple, fun, approachable way.
Wine doesn't have to be intimidating. It doesn't require a fancy cellar or a sommelier certification. It just requires curiosity and good company. That's what SommOM is all about—creating spaces where women can explore, learn, and connect over something beautiful.
My Journey
After graduating from culinary school, I pivoted entirely to wine. I spent years working in Miami's finest restaurants—the Mandarin Oriental, The Biltmore, Four Seasons—building wine programs and serving guests who taught me just as much as I taught them.
In 2011, I was honored with a James Beard nomination, which felt like validation for years of hard work and passion. But the real reward has always been those moments of connection: watching someone's eyes light up when they finally understand what makes a great Burgundy special, or seeing a group of friends bond over a bottle they'll remember forever.
Today, I bring that same energy to private tastings and tours. No restaurant formality, no pretension—just genuine passion shared in intimate settings.
