Hilarie’s passion for wine began in the 1970’s while in the European hospitality industry.
In 2003 she began her wine career in earnest in her native British Columbia, Canada, working in the vineyards, cellars and tasting rooms of several wineries. In 2004 she acquired her certificate from the Court of Master Sommelier.
A stint with Anderson & Son Winebrokers in Penticton, B.C. expanded her knowledge of world wines and marketing.
Next stop, Washington State and Maryhill Winery; “Washington States’ Winery of the Year”! As their Resident Sommelier, Hilarie provided staff education and training in addition to assisting in the tasting room and wine club.
Hilarie currently brings her experience and enthusiasm to California where she was instrumental in the start up and staff training for Europa Village in Temecula Wine country and wine education for Miramonte Winery and Wilson Creek. She consults with winery owners to develop well trained, educated teams and speaks about wine at consumer events such as the San Diego International Wine Show.
In addition, Hilarie contributes wine related articles to several websites including Wine Folly.com and was honored to be awarded the 2013 Emerging Writer Scholarship from IFWTWA – the International Food, Wine and Travel Writers Association.
CSW – Certified Specialist of Wine
FWS – French Wine Scholar, French Wine Society & Wines of France
Certificate from the Court of Master Sommelier
CIVP Certified Provence Instructor
BIVB Ambassador of the Wines of Bourgogne
2013 Emerging Writer Scholarship Award, International Food, Wine and Travel Writers Association
Hilarie delivered a talk at IWINETC 2015 titled:
Promoting Your Wine Tourism Business Through Sales, Service & Knowledge>>