Growing up in the Rhône Valley in the South of France and quite literally living amongst the vineyards, it was almost inevitable that Alex was destined for a career in hospitality and wine.
“Ever since I was a little girl, I was surrounded by the culinary delights of France. My parents were true foodies. Some of my earliest memories were cooking traditional French recipes at home with my mother and then enjoying her rich dishes surrounded by family and friends. My father was deeply passionate about restaurants. He was incredibly charismatic, striking up conversations with the kitchen team, winemakers and sommeliers”.
-
You might say that Alex learnt everything she knows on the job, spending her youth working the vines.
“During my teenage years, I had a group of friends that owned wineries in Beaujolais – and we’re still very much in touch today. Along with my family, we’d harvest together... I have rich and vivid memories of my friend's grandmother, cooking rich lamb and gratin dauphinois after a long day of picking grapes. Of course, we’d open a bottle of wine or two. An unforgettable experience”.
-
Alex’s eternal relationship with wine is so much more than uncorking. For her, it’s the human element. it comes down to each winemaker’s process, their unique stories and the love behind every bottle they produce.
“I’m so fascinated by the stories behind wine. There’s so much work involved – sometimes anticipation, even fear, which seems crazy. I love to hear from the producers directly, their why and their how.”
-
Fast forward a few years, Alex now lives on the beautiful Central Coast and the other half of Nico, head chef and owner of hatted restaurant, Osteria il Coccia in Ettalong Beach now closed, with a new venture in Erina Heights Carne & Cucina, which of course offers a stellar wine list hand-picked by Alex herself. It was during COVID that the concept of her baby, Alessa Vino sparked.
“I wanted to curate an online wine boutique with a focus on quality first. For me, taste is everything, not always the price tag. I believe that everyone can appreciate wine, you don’t have to be a ‘connoisseur’. Every wine offered has been explained simply whilst also sharing its unique story”.
-
So, what types of wines and varietals will you find from Alessa Vino?
“Sourcing unique and character-filled wines is incredibly important to me. You’ll find a fine selection of wines from smaller producers – organic when possible – and varietals from our restaurant list. I’m deeply passionate about showcasing female winemakers who are leaving their mark on the industry. And, of course there is a strong French and Italian vibe inspired by my origin. My goal? To be able to share my favourite wines with the world.”
