Hi, I’m Anne Russo, the heart and soul behind Russo Wine Company. But before I became your friendly neighborhood wine expert, my story began in a way you might not expect – as a passionate wine enthusiast and dedicated single mom, juggling the love for fine wines with the adorable chaos of rescue cats.
It wasn’t always grape stomps and swirling glasses. Building Russo Wine Company took resilience and a healthy dose of “mom-grit.” While I had industry certifications under my belt, the dream of sharing my knowledge and making wine education fun simmered in my heart.
The inspiration? The male-dominated world of wine. I wanted to see more women not just enjoying wine, but thriving in this incredible industry. My biggest cheerleader, my brother, knew it too. “You gotta start somewhere,” he’d say, and that became my mantra. With the unwavering support of family and friends, I took a leap of faith, turning my savings into the foundation of a dream.
Russo Wine Company wasn’t just about selling wine, it was about creating a supportive space. A space where women could learn, connect, and chase their own wine dreams. Think of it as the ultimate girls’ night out – with a sophisticated twist! I started small, hosting in-home tastings that blossomed into referrals and larger events. Soon, I was creating custom wine experiences, from romantic anniversary tastings for two to milestone birthday bashes and even team-building events for companies. For the true connoisseurs, I offered personalized consultations, helping them fill their cellars with treasures and unearth those sentimental vintages.
The journey hasn’t been all sunshine and Sauvignon Blanc. There were pitches galore, strategic social media moves, and the constant hustle of turning contacts into fellow wine enthusiasts. But the hard work paid off! This past spring, Russo Wine Company hosted a roaring success – “Wines of the World,” a large-scale event showcasing wines from seven countries. It was a beautiful celebration of the diverse flavors and stories that come from every corner of the globe. And just recently, the dream got even bigger – I landed a spot on the reality TV show, “Destination Divas,” airing in 2025!
So, you see, this isn’t just a wine business; it’s a testament to the power of believing in yourself. It’s about being a role model for my son while chasing dreams, and proving that a little grit and a whole lot of passion can uncork something truly special.
Want to join me on this incredible adventure? Let’s raise a glass (or two) together and explore the world of wine, one sip at a time!
