Redefining Belonging in Wine Country

In a region often perceived as exclusive, the question of who truly belongs in Napa Valley lingers. Tish Wiggins stands out as a crucial voice in this discussion. With a focus on diversity and a drive to empower women, she is challenging traditional narratives surrounding the wine industry.

A Journey from Cleveland to Napa Valley

Originating from Cleveland, Wiggins has traversed through Dallas and Atlanta, finally establishing her presence in the heart of California’s wine country. Her career transition—from managing multimillion-dollar projects at major financial institutions to becoming a renowned wine expert—mirrors the boldness of Napa Valley’s Cabernet.

Now a certified WSET Level 2 expert, Wiggins curates unforgettable Napa experiences, sharing the area’s unique offerings with visitors from around the globe. She is not merely a participant in the wine industry; she is actively shaping its future.

Celebrating Women in Wine

Wiggins leads a transformative initiative with the Women in Wine Tour, which has evolved into a multifaceted event series scheduled for March 5th to 8th this year. This celebration honors the contributions of women in the wine sector by offering experiences that connect participants with the stories behind each bottle and the craftsmanship involved in winemaking.

Interview Insights with Tish Wiggins

First Encounter with Wine

“My parents were more inclined towards spirits, rarely exposing me to wine,” recalls Wiggins. Her initial experience with wine occurred during her freshman year at Grambling State University, where she was introduced to Boone’s Farm and Carlo Rossi.

First Personal Purchase

Wiggins vividly remembers the first bottle she bought: “Carlo Rossi—what a classic!” she states, linking her choice to a nostalgic connection and commonalities with culture.

Turning Passion into Profession

Tish’s love for food and wine blossomed into a career after she achieved her WSET Level 2 certification in 2018. This accomplishment solidified her dedication, transforming wine from a casual interest to a central passion in her life.

Professional Beginnings

Her first role within the wine industry was at Toroba, a sophisticated wine bar in Dallas. Here, she served as a wine educator, refining her expertise and gaining insights into the operational aspects of wine service.

Current Role and Responsibilities

As a brand founder and a multifaceted professional, Wiggins operates under Tish Around Town, where she focuses on uniting communities through innovative wine experiences. She designs tours, organizes tastings, and celebrates the artisans behind the wines.

Reflection on Industry Progress

Inclusion in the Wine Community

Wiggins feels appreciated within the Napa wine community but acknowledges the ongoing challenges surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion. “While we’ve made strides, progress takes time and sincerity,” she emphasizes.

Future Directions for Inclusion

She highlights the importance of intentional collaborations that uplift underrepresented voices within the industry. By expanding representation and actively engaging diverse talents, the wine sector can foster a more inclusive community.

Advancing Wine Education and Engagement

To attract a broader, younger audience, Wiggins promotes educational initiatives and interactive events that simplify the wine experience. Her mission is to create enjoyable, accessible wine explorations for a diverse demographics.

Looking Ahead

Moving forward, Tish aims to enhance her event offerings, launching a series celebrating pioneering women in the wine industry along with custom wine tours in 2025. Her passion and commitment to wine continue to drive her, as she shares, “If I could choose only one variety, it would be Cabernet Franc—my ultimate favorite.”

Respected Figures in the Industry

Wiggins admires several industry leaders, including Philana Bouvier, Maryam Ahmed, and Fern Stroud, acknowledging their contributions to diversity and innovation in the wine community.

Staying Informed

For the latest in wine, Wiggins looks to various social media platforms, engaging with community voices and expert insights to stay updated.

Enjoying Life Beyond Wine

Outside her professional pursuits, Wiggins indulges in travel, live music, and time with family and friends, embracing new cultures and experiences.