Leslie Sbrocco

Leslie is an award-winning writer, speaker and television host. Her first book, “Wine for Women: A Guide to Buying, Pairing and Sharing Wine” (William Morrow), has been excerpted by two national magazines: “Redbook” and “Family Circle,” and won the coveted Georges Duboeuf Best Wine Book of the Year award. Her second book, “The Simple & Savvy Wine Guide,” was released in 2006. Leslie is a consultant with the prestigious Kimpton Hotel Group, developing their nightly “Wines of the World” program, and a respected judge at a number of the country's largest wine competitions.

Bella: What will you discuss at the Expo?
Sbrocco: I will be leading several wine tasting sessions showcasing wines from around the world. The sessions will be packed with useful wine tips, food and wine pairing ideas and guidelines for tasting wine like a pro to make smart buying decisions. These will be fun, entertaining, informative and empowering. As I always say, “wine is not to fear or revere, simply enjoy.”

Bella: What was your path to becoming such a noted speaker?
Sbrocco: More than a decade ago I was able to turn my passion into my career and make a living in the wine and food world. I came from television, where I hosted, wrote and produced, but my heart was with wine. When I made the decision to focus on this as my career path, it was a matter of hard work and dedication. Since then, I’ve worked for The New York Times Company, written two books, been a columnist for national magazines and newspapers and hosted several TV shows about food and wine, including my Emmy-nominated show on PBS, “Check Please!” I consult for companies ranging from Target to Crystal Cruises, and Kimpton Hotels. Traveling the country speaking is a natural extension of sharing my passion for wine.

Bella: What are three pieces of advice you can give to women for following their dreams?
Sbrocco: First: Pinpoint your passions. Second: Make a list of transferable skills from your current work life to goal work life. Third: Embrace your fear, work hard and GO FOR IT!

Bella: Who or what do you credit with your success?
Sbrocco: My connections with people, my work ethic and positive attitude, and most importantly, an incredibly supportive family.

Bella: What are your future goals or plans?
Sbrocco: I’m so lucky to be doing what I’m doing now that my goal is just to keep doing more of the same. Along with my food and wine interests, I’m also hoping to spend more time helping other women attain their career dreams and goals.