Erlinda Alexandra Doherty

Erlinda is sommelier, wine & spirits writer and educator, and entrepreneur with a passion for helping others discover the infinite diversity of wine and spirits in an approachable, engaging manner. With a slew of wine & spirits certifications and a Master’s in Public Policy, Erlinda is also the Director of Communications and Education for the Mezcal Institute, Founder of ViniCola Wine & Spirits Consulting, a federal/state lobbyist for wine & spirits issues, and a frequent speaker and contributor on AlcBev sector economics, DEI issues, and overall marketplace trends. Erlinda has a particular affection for agave spirits and finds many similarities between wine and the traditional distillates of Mexico, calling Mezcal the “gateway spirit for wine lovers.” See more at thevinicola.com.