Embarking on a wine journey often involves unexpected twists and turns, fueled by a deep passion for the craft. For Casleah Herwaldt, whose roots intertwined with vineyards in Michigan, the journey began amidst childhood memories and blossomed into a full-fledged career in the wine industry. 

1. Can you talk about your journey, your experiences, and your current role in the industry?

My wine journey began in Michigan, where my grandparents owned a vineyard. Growing up, I spent my days playing among the vines, and my family's grapes even made it into the wine served at events hosted by President Gerald R. Ford. Despite pursuing a career in Occupational Therapy for a decade, my passion for wine continued to grow.

While living in Kansas City, I became enamored with wine, frequenting Buckley's Wine Market and immersing myself in its world. Eventually, I joined their team, where I delved into wine education and industry courses.

After relocating to California, I ventured into in-home wine-tasting experiences with Wine Shop at Home, leveraging Instagram to expand my network and opportunities. Studying for my Certified Sommelier certification led me to Cristie Norman's study group at Spago Beverly Hills, where I excelled and earned a scholarship.

Image: Casleah Herwaldt; Source: by the stem

A chance encounter on a plane led to a role as a floor sommelier for Chef Michelin star, further deepening my understanding of wine. Throughout the pandemic, I pivoted to virtual tastings, which garnered attention and led to the creation of my wine label, a wine club, a blog, and the completion of the WSET Diploma.

Now, I'm fully immersed in the wine industry, working with Regal Wine Company to share exceptional wines with restaurants, country clubs, and stadiums.

2. What are the essential steps to prepare for a wine tasting?

The key to a successful wine tasting is ensuring everyone feels comfortable and engaged. While glassware and serving temperature are important, meeting guests at their level of wine knowledge is paramount. It's about creating an enjoyable experience for all involved.

3. What are some of the most common blocks you find people struggle with in a wine tasting?

I find people have a hard time coming up with the tasting notes. I had a Master Sommelier tell me that if you have not been kicked out of a grocery store for fondling fruits and vegetables, you’re not trying hard enough. If you can’t imagine what a plum tastes like, you’ll never be able to pick up plum aromas in a wine.

So the way to become a better wine taster is to be super familiar with all fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices. Then in addition to that, it’s just tasting and tasting as many wines as you possibly can. The more you taste, the better taster you’ll become.

4. What are your challenges with a virtual set-up?

Virtual tastings present unique challenges, particularly in fostering open dialogue. With participants on mute, it can be challenging to facilitate natural conversation and engagement.

5. You started your wine brand ‘Casleah Wines’, could you walk us through the whole process?

I was up in Napa Valley for a WSET exam, and I met up with some friends of mine at a custom crush facility. We were barrel-tasting the wines and learning about the winemaking process. I tasted the rosé from the tank, and I was obsessed with it. It had the perfect color, flavor, and aroma. He offered that I could make my own, and my husband encouraged me to do it. I called a friend to design my wine label. I told her I wanted a watercolor with gold flakes. She nailed it.

For the Pinot Noir, we created the perfect blend of fruit, floral, earth, and oak. My winemaker is so talented, and I’m so impressed by his wines. I was very lucky to be able to partner with him to make Casleah Wines come to life!

6. What were some challenges you faced while launching your wine brand?

One challenge I faced was that my labels didn’t arrive in time, so I ended up having to hand-label the first round. It turned out to be a fun experience though!

Image: Casleah Herwaldt; Source: by the stem

7. How important is WSET - and what to keep in mind before going into the training?

I think it’s so essential. I think every adult should take level 1. Wine is such a huge part of global culture and history that everyone should know the basics of wine. I also believe everyone who loves wine should take level 2 as well. The more you understand about wine, the more you can appreciate it.

Level 3 is pretty intense and should only be taken by people who are serious about learning wine. The diploma is very, very intense, and I honestly wouldn’t recommend it unless you’re extremely passionate about wine and ready to dedicate 3 years of your life to studying wine as the main thing you do.

8. What is social media's role in your job?

Social media is everything to me. My network is really what got me to where I am and
Instagram is a big part of that. I also utilize it to share about events I’m hosting and wines I’m enjoying. I’m very grateful for this great connected platform.

Image: Casleah Herwaldt; Source: by the stem

9. What is on the career bucket list for you that you're working towards?

A big bucket list item would be listed on Wine Enthusiasts 40 under 40. I would also love to be a wine educator nationally, or a champagne ambassador. I’m super open though, because I could’ve never predicted where I am now, so I’m excited to see what the future holds.

10. What kind of publications do you follow to keep up with industry news and trends?

I read the Shaken News Daily almost every day to stay up on industry trends, and I love reading the Gambero Rosso newsletters to stay up to date on Italian wine news. Then, of course, I get a lot of my trends and updates on social media.

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