Exploring the World of Wine: A Fresh Perspective on Tasting and Travel

A look at vineyards in Piedmonte.

While wine tourism has become increasingly popular, many companies or cruise lines offering such services don’t seem to have perfected the experience. The consumer wine trips I’ve encountered have often been underwhelming.

I was intrigued to learn more about Sommsation, a new venture under the American holding company Eldridge Industries. This company is engaged in various sectors including technology, sports, media, real estate, and consumer markets. It’s uncommon for a wine tourism firm to be backed by a parent company with such extensive involvement in tech, media, and finance.

I had a conversation with Sommsation’s co-founder, Danielle Diliberti, where I asked about the inception of the company and its vision for the future. The interview was edited and shortened for clarity.

Liza B. Zimmerman (L.B.Z.): Why did you found Sommsation?

Daniel Diliberti is one of the founders of Sommsation.

Danielle Diliberti (D.D.): Sommsation was founded in 2021 as an online marketplace for wine-tasting experiences and an online wine shop for small-production wineries. The company also offers in-person or virtual sommelier services, and wine trips.

Sommsation’s leadership team shared an interest in a wine-focused platform that went beyond sales, aiming to create a space for memorable experiences connected to the people behind each bottle.

L.B.Z.: What services does Sommsation provide?

D.D.: A comprehensive suite of wine-centric, hospitality services, including wine tastings, sommelier services and bespoke travel experiences led by industry professionals.

L.B.Z.: How has the company’s tech background helped you plan wine trips and tastings?

We use our technological expertise to power our entire business to explore various aspects of wine buying, wine tasting and luxury wine-centric travel.

Sommsation sommelier Elyse Lovenworth in action.

Our tech-driven approach allows us to analyze data at a scale that traditional wine companies often can’t. This means we can deliver a highly personalized experience, from helping customers navigate wine offerings to ensuring they receive curated recommendations based on individual preferences. Our technology also simplifies logistics: as travelers can seamlessly coordinate with our team about different aspects of their trip.

L.B.Z.: How has the reaction to the company been, thus far?

D.D.: Very positive, our in-home and office tastings have been especially popular. One of the top offerings has been our virtual Sunday School by Sommsation. These tastings are fun, social and interactive. Consumers can simply sign up, receive a wine shipment and Zoom in at the designated time.

L.B.Z.: What types of tasting experiences have you done in homes and offices?

Wine expert Colin Anderson tasting wine in a cellar underneath Trafalgar Square, London, 24th April 1972.

D.D.: We create customized experiences, from casual, themed tastings to formal, guided sessions. These events are tailored to the preferences of our clients. Some recent seminars have focused on sustainability and women-owned wineries.

L.B.Z.: How do you create the wine tours and decide where they go?

Pienza, Siena Province, Tuscany, Italy. Garlic, flowers and empty wine bottle decoration outside restaurant. (Photo by: Ken Welsh/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

D.D.: Our wine tours are based on relationships with top wineries and vineyards. We choose destinations that offer exceptional wines and rich cultural and culinary experiences.

L.B.Z.: What countries are you operating luxury wine tours in?

D.D.: France, Italy, Spain, Argentina and the United States.

L.B.Z.: How do you think your tours take guests to different areas and how does it affect their food and wine experiences?

Our tours are designed to take guests off the beaten path by exploring lesser-known regions and iconic destinations. We’re able to bring guests behind the scenes with producers so they can have experiences not often featured on traditional wine tours.

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About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!