About this episode

Nikki discusses the challenges and triumphs of women in the wine industry with guests Amy Bess Cook and Kira Ballotta.

Check out more in depth show notes, pictures and links on this episode's webpage. Nikki sits down with Amy Bess Cook of Woman Owned Wineries and winemaker Kira Ballotta for an honest, emotional conversation about women in wine, hustle, and knowing when to let go. Links and How to Support: Everything mentioned in this episode is linked below. If you've been moved to put your money where your values are — and I hope you have — here's where to start: Woman Owned Wineries — Amy Bess has created a resources page for consumers who want to continue supporting women in wine now that the club is closing. Visit Amy Bess Cook's website to see her writing portfolio and work in the press Olivia Brion Wines — Kira's Pinot Noir-centric brand celebrating trailblazing women from history Cantadora Wines — Kira's Rhône-focused brand featuring real women doing profound community work Sollevato Wines — Nikki's wines, including the 2023 pink-label Grenache benefiting the V Foundation for Cancer Research Glup Glup — Amy Bess's Sip Spotlight $20 Spanish Grenache find, made for Barcelona Wine Bar and widely available Other Links and Resources: Sollevato Wines : Nikki and Michael's first ever rosé — a…

People in this episode

Host: Nikki Lamberti

Guests: Amy Bess Cook, Kira Ballotta

Topics covered

• women in wine
• letting go
• supporting women
• emotional conversation
• hustle

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Woman Owned Wineries, Olivia Brion Wines, Cantadora Wines, Sollevato Wines

Products: 2023 pink-label Grenache, 2023 Petite Sirah, Glup Glup

Places: Barcelona

More episodes of Sip with Nikki

• Four Things I Can't Stop Thinking About: Wine Tips and Teasers · May 27, 2026 · 29 min

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Sip with Nikki podcast page.