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STEFANIE SCHWARTZ

HEAD SOMMELIER

Stefanie Schwartz’s wine journey began on the Johnson & Wales University’s Charlotte, North Carolina campus. During the years spent there, the proverbial light bulb went on while learning the basics of wine production and tasting. As a result, Stefanie tailored her education to have a beverage focus, graduating not only with a BS in Food Service Management, but also with the WSET Advanced Certificate. 

In 2010, Stefanie made her way to New York City, and began working in wine retail and casual restaurants. Stefanie honed her service techniques and elevated Italian wine knowledge at Altamarea Group’s Ai Fiori. These skills opened the door for her to work as a sommelier at Aureole, Le Coucou and Olmsted before joining the Portale team. She recently received her MBA from Sonoma State University.  

When not slinging wine, Stefanie can be found practicing yoga, rock climbing, and promoting health & wellness in the wine community.