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Sandra Fernandez knows all about the art of drinking a good bottle of wine. Unlike many sommeliers and experts, Fernandez loves the challenge of blending Mexico's rich and diverse culinary landscape with the drink, resulting in a unique experience that has catapulted her to a stunning career.
Fernandez's passion began while studying her college career in the US, where she took a class taught by Karen MacNeil, author of "The Wine Bible." What started as a compliment to her culinary career became her sole focus, with MacNeil showing her that it was possible to build the career of her dreams in the food industry. "In that class, I learned how I wanted to live in this profession, how to take it on, and how disciplined I had to be to make it."
Fernandez returned to Mexico determined to continue her career in wine. There, she found the opportunity to become a pioneer in the field, developing her career with confidence. In a chance meeting at the store Tierra de Vinos, Fernandez began talking with one of the owners, walking away with a job, becoming the only woman in the society for 10 years.
"What I did was to respect each glass of wine. I served a 30 pesos wine glass with the same enthusiasm as one valued at 1,500 pesos. That's how we built a community around wine."
Through this time, Fernandez revolutionized the sommelier business in Mexico, making it more accessible and friendly instead of perpetuating the pretentious image associated with it. Despite the challenges that come with establishing oneself in a male-dominated industry, Fernandez made room for herself with knowledge, discipline, and a deep passion for storytelling. She quickly became the expert with the most certifications in Mexico, acquiring national and international acclaim, and becoming the first Mexican woman to be admitted to The Court of Masters Sommeliers. Her dedication led her to earn a spot at the Mexican embassy in Washington D.C., where she offered a conference about Mexican wine, tequila, and Mezcal.
"Nowadays, wine and Mexican gastronomy are inseparable."
Among her many successes, Fernandez played a pivotal role in the creation of the wines 3V and 2V of Casa Madero. In 2014, she founded SFG Estrategias in Wine and Distillery, a consulting firm that orients hotels and restaurants when it comes to their wine selection.
With over 23 years in the world of wines, Fernandez is a true beacon of Mexican talent and passion.
