Hi! My name is Gloria. I’m originally from Mexico and I’m an architect. I moved to Vancouver in 2023, and ever since I arrived, wine has been my way of creating connections, my excuse to start conversations, learn from others, and hear stories from countries I haven’t had the chance to visit yet.

My interest in wine started back in 2020 during the pandemic, when I began tasting every natural wine I could get my hands on. Natural wine is my true passion. I know there isn’t a universally accepted definition today, but one description that has stayed with me came from Fernando, a Spanish wine importer I met at a fair: natural wine is about respect: respect for the terroir, for the environment, and for the people who make the wine, from fair wages to careful water use and protecting the local biodiversity.

I’ve had the opportunity to travel to Italy and Spain, where I met several producers, mostly within the natural wine world. When I travel solo, I’m always that person who chooses to sit at the bar just to watch the action, talk to the owners or bartenders, and learn through their experiences.

My medium-term goal is to reach the educational level needed to start teaching wine courses both in Mexico City and in Vancouver, which has become my home. Speaking three languages has helped me connect with so many people. One of the conversations that marked me the most was with Giusto Occhipinti. We’re both architects by training; he doesn’t speak English or Spanish, but we discovered we both speak French. Thanks to that, and a mix of hand gestures, curiosity, and the willingness to understand each other, we had one of the most enriching conversations I’ve ever had.

Alongside wine, I also work deeply with specialty coffee. I’m currently training with the SCA as a roaster and barista because I want to teach in both fields and explore pairings that highlight terroir, craftsmanship, and the stories behind both coffee and wine. My purpose is to share knowledge and help people taste a piece of the land through the hands that cultivated it.

I’m a WSET Level 2 holder and I want to pursue the WSET Level 3 qualification, as part of my commitment to deepen my understanding and advance my journey toward teaching and professional development in wine.

Occupational Health & Safety - Anderson College
Year Graduated - 2024

Court of Masters Sommelier
Introductory Level
2018

Program Coordinator Sommelier & Bartending programs @Algonquin College of Applied Arts & Technology
VP - National Capital Sommelier Guild
Head Judge - Cold Climate Wine Awards
Wine Director Thottungal Tales

I am a consumer and sommelier curious.

In 2017 I began KÜHL WINE, a journey to tell winemakers stories. KÜHL WINE as designed to be a collection of compelling visual essays about these stewards of the land. These bespoke stories will resonate with a growing cohort of BIPOC individuals. Members of the BIPOC community face personal/professional challenges mirrored in the winemakers’ stories. The stories are taut and concise yet revelatory, offering keen insights into the daily reality of winemaker’s lives. Blending images of the lush rolling hills of the wine country with winemaker’s stories told in their own relatable words. These stories reveal…what drives them , what motivates them, what sustains them… as they pursue the art and science that is winemaking.

Watch the trailer @ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Nvenv5RVMw.

If you are interested in discussing how we could collaborate on this project I would welcome continuing the conversation.
Bentley Miller
Bentley@kuhl.wine

Throughout my career, I have consistently strived to excel in visual storytelling, blending creativity with technical expertise to deliver exceptional results. My work is grounded in a deep understanding of lighting, composition, and camera operations, enabling me to elevate the artistic integrity of each project I undertake. I am committed to producing high-quality visuals that meet both creative and production standards.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalya-bailey-864bb8124?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BIeV3QrheQ56gwVGA%2FTFuJw%3D%3D

Immediate Past President
Canadian Association of Professional Sommeliers, BC Chapter

Winery Selection Committee Co-Chair
Vancouver International Wine Festival

Planning Committee Member
Vancouver International Wine Festival

Restaurant Judge 2021-2023
Vancouver Magazine Restaurant Awards

Certified Sommelier
International Sommelier Guild 2002

Certified BC Wine Ambassador
WGBC Level 2

Sommelier of the Year
VIWF British Columbia 2004

Wine Judge 2003-2016
Vancouver Magazine
International Wine Competition

Associate Sommelier
Pouring team
Events

I host intimate food and wine events in Toronto through my passion project, Tinker Taster Savour Spice. For my events, I not only curate the menu and wine pairings, I also do the cooking, the hosting and facilitating, and the serving - a full service!

Good afternoon! I was informed of Vinequity through a friend. She has recently completed her level 3 WSET, and has inspired me to pursue my interest in wine, and take it to another level. I would love to participate in any events, or activities that might occur. I appreciate what you’ve put together here!