exquisitevines

I love our culinary scene here in St. Louis! Here’s a short list of some of my favorites this moment. Where do you like to eat around town? Pick up this month’s for more places to add to your list. 🍷

Thank you Sauce Magazine for including my thoughts!

Well, this was a nice surprise to come back to after a week away! It’s a humbling honor to be recognized by the James Beard Foundation Awards as a 2025 Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service, the first time the has offered this acknowledgment. Definitely a “dream come true” moment I didn’t think would ever become reality.
Special thank you to my family for being supportive since day one, the STL wine community, and everyone who helped point me down the right paths. Big cheers to this year’s nominees🥂

Next stop, Master Sommelier exam!

Alisha Blackwell-Calvert’s journey through the wine and hospitality industry has been nothing short of remarkable. After passing her initial Sommelier exam in 2015, she earned her Advanced Sommelier certification in 2022 and subsequently became the beverage director at in Webster Groves. Now, her achievements in the field have garnered recognition from the prestigious James Beard Award Foundation.

“I always hear people say ‘it’s an honor to be nominated,’ but in this case, no, really, it’s an honor,” says. “It’s like being nominated for an Oscar. It’s a really big deal.”

The wine expert is nominated for Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service alongside another St. Louis industry stalwart, Natasha Bahrami of The Gin Room. “Being listed with Natasha in the same category; she’s amazing,” Blackwell-Calvert says. “These are incredible people, and being listed amongst them is honor enough.” Read more at the link in our profile. 📝: 📷:

Posted • Gift an experience this year.

The Healdsburg Wine & Food Experience is the ultimate gift for any culinary enthusiast!

More than just a food and wine festival, HWFE is an immersive weekend that you’ll savor all year long 🥂

🎁 Early bird pricing goes through the holidays, there’s never been a better time to buy tickets.