Rising Above Circumstance with the Grape Goddess, Catherine Fallis

In Issue 19 of ASI Magazine, our feature Breaking the Barrier edition we explored the challenges and triumphs of sommeliers working to overcome gender inequality, race and other circumstances to find their voice on the global stage. Among those stories, one person stood out both her candour and her conviction: Catherine Fallis MS, the “Grape Goddess,” who shared her inspiring journey in Rising Above Circumstance. We are thrilled to share that conversation on A Sommelier’s Insight. Catherine is not only a Master Sommelier, but also a pioneer, author, educator, and advocate who has spent her career proving that excellence is born not from privilege, but from resilience and passion. Her story resonated deeply with our theme of breaking barriers, as she rose above challenging circumstances to carve a place at the highest levels of the wine world. In this episode, Catherine shares her perspective on the evolving role of the sommelier, the lessons she’s learned about perseverance, and why authenticity remains her guiding principle in wine and in life. Whether you know her as the “Grape Goddess” or as one of the profession’s most respected educators, Catherine brings warmth, wisdom, and a refreshing honesty to the conversation. Join us as we revisit and expand upon her article, exploring how her insights continue to inspire a new generation of sommeliers to rise above circumstance, and to find strength in both their struggles and their successes.

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