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Once upon a time, unexpected circumstances led me to change my travel plans, landing me in the captivating beauty of Portugal. The stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, time-honored traditions, and delicious cuisine sparked a new passion in me for wine.
Upon my first visit to Portugal, I was so captivated by its wines that I began to seek out more information. A decade ago, the internet was slower, and wine producers’ websites were less common. Despite these challenges, I managed to compile a list of wine producers and wines I wanted to explore. Attending wine fairs, I felt a mix of intimidation and curiosity, but it was there that I met fascinating and passionate individuals who truly loved their craft. Their enthusiasm was deeply inspiring.
With limited information about Portuguese wines available abroad, I felt compelled to make a difference. This led to the idea of opening a Portuguese wine shop overseas. After months of preparation and numerous meetings, “Garrafeira” opened its doors in Riga, Latvia.
While self-study and learning directly from winemakers were invaluable, I sought formal education to structure my knowledge. I decided to complement my legal expertise with comprehensive wine studies. Over the years, I’ve pursued education from prestigious institutions such as the International Faculty for Executives (IFE), Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), the Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS) and Portuguese Sommelier Association (AEP). Each of these programs provided unique insights into wine and spirits, food pairing, service, marketing, and client communication.
My academic pursuits, combined with practical experience, have allowed me to participate as a judge and wine critic in numerous national and international wine competitions, including Concurso Vinhos de Portugal, Berliner Wine Trophy, Portugal Wine Trophy, Mondial des Vins Extremes, Virtus International Awards, Concurso de Vinhos Douro Superior, Concurso de Vinhos de Lisboa, Prova Cega Uva de Ouro and Concurso de Vinhos Escanções de Portugal.
Since Portuguese wines introduced me to the wine world, I am especially delighted to hold the title of “Ambassador of Wines of Portugal,” awarded by Vini Portugal and being chosen and recognized as a “Certified Port Educator” by the Port and Douro Wines Institute (IVDP) for my understanding and expertise in Port wine.
As a recognized WSET Wine Educator, I continue to explore the world of wine, sharing my passion and knowledge with others to foster a deeper appreciation for this remarkable beverage.
For me, the world of wine is an endless journey of discovery. The more I learn, the more I realize how much there is still to uncover. It’s an exciting adventure, and I invite you to join me on this journey.
Warm regards,
Ilona Akulova
Founder of Bottled Assets
About
Once upon a time, unexpected circumstances led me to change my travel plans, landing me in the captivating beauty of Portugal. The stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, time-honored traditions, and delicious cuisine sparked a new passion in me for wine.
Upon my first visit to Portugal, I was so captivated by its wines that I began to seek out more information. A decade ago, the internet was slower, and wine producers’ websites were less common. Despite these challenges, I managed to compile a list of wine producers and wines I wanted to explore. Attending wine fairs, I felt a mix of intimidation and curiosity, but it was there that I met fascinating and passionate individuals who truly loved their craft. Their enthusiasm was deeply inspiring.
With limited information about Portuguese wines available abroad, I felt compelled to make a difference. This led to the idea of opening a Portuguese wine shop overseas. After months of preparation and numerous meetings, “Garrafeira” opened its doors in Riga, Latvia.
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While self-study and learning directly from winemakers were invaluable, I sought formal education to structure my knowledge. I decided to complement my legal expertise with comprehensive wine studies. Over the years, I’ve pursued education from prestigious institutions such as the International Faculty for Executives (IFE), Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), the Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS) and Portuguese Sommelier Association (AEP). Each of these programs provided unique insights into wine and spirits, food pairing, service, marketing, and client communication.
My academic pursuits, combined with practical experience, have allowed me to participate as a judge and wine critic in numerous national and international wine competitions, including Concurso Vinhos de Portugal, Berliner Wine Trophy, Portugal Wine Trophy, Mondial des Vins Extremes, Virtus International Awards, Concurso de Vinhos Douro Superior, Concurso de Vinhos de Lisboa, Prova Cega Uva de Ouro and Concurso de Vinhos Escanções de Portugal.
Since Portuguese wines introduced me to the wine world, I am especially delighted to hold the title of “Ambassador of Wines of Portugal,” awarded by Vini Portugal and being chosen and recognized as a “Certified Port Educator” by the Port and Douro Wines Institute (IVDP) for my understanding and expertise in Port wine.
As a recognized WSET Wine Educator, I continue to explore the world of wine, sharing my passion and knowledge with others to foster a deeper appreciation for this remarkable beverage.
For me, the world of wine is an endless journey of discovery. The more I learn, the more I realize how much there is still to uncover. It’s an exciting adventure, and I invite you to join me on this journey.
Warm regards,
Ilona Akulova
Founder of Bottled Assets
