Yumilka Ortiz
My professional background within the wine business is diverse. I have seven solid years working in all areas of the wine and spirits business, including direct sales, communications, and hospitality. I have served as a Beverage Manager and Sommelier for one of the largest Italian food and wine restaurant concepts within the US and Italy (Eataly USA). My passion encouraged me to travel to different regions to work wine harvest – from the volcanic islands of Sicily and Canary Islands, to the classic regions of La Rioja, Ribera Del Duero, and Priorat to learn about winemaking and viticulture. I have worked under the tutelage of Alvaro Palacios, Elisabetta Foradori, and Giusto Occhipinti. In addition, I hold my advanced certification from the Wine & Spirits Education Trust (WSET). I am now living the “Somm Life” working for the masa group.
My editorial collaborations include writing for local magazines such as Newarkbound, Raise Newark, and Latin Lover Magazine, along blog and local newspapers abroad, along TV appearances in Univision’s morning show “Al Despertar”.