I still remember the first time I discovered the meaning of March 8th. It was 14 years ago at A16 in San Francisco, celebrating a "ladies' night out" with some of the best in the Food & Beverage business! That was the night I learned that in Italy, March 8th isn't just a date—it’s La Festa della Donna, a day dedicated to women around the world.
Whether it’s the history, the mimosa blossoms, or the way an Italian representative explained that "you are not only what you eat, but where you eat and with whom you eat," the spirit of this day has stayed with me. It’s a day to celebrate every woman—your mother, your sister, your mentors, and your friends. It's a way of life, made most meaningful by those you share it with.
While it has come to be known as International Women’s Day here in the States, it will always be La Festa della Donna to me and I’m not even Italian! But given my namesake, I know a leader when I see one—and I’ve been lucky enough to meet many of them along the Wine Oh way.
In honor of March 8th, we’re raising a glass to eight amazing women who have shared a "Sip with Monique” on our show. These talented women are a constant reminder that while sharing a sip is lovely, it’s the art of simply showing up and sharing the connection, culture, and community that truly fill us up.
1. Jade Hernandez | The Visionary behind the Vine
For the past two years, Emmy Award-winning journalist Jade Hernandez has been the soul behind the scenes of our show. As a powerhouse producer, Jade doesn’t just 'cover' stories; she uncovers the human spirit. Whether she is exploring the legacy of a landscape or the heart of a community, Jade listens for the heartbeat of the story and the truth behind the people who bring it to life.
The Oh! Moment: After years of hard-hitting news, Jade brought her sharp journalistic lens to the wine world, proving that a great vintage is nothing without a deep, human story. She has dedicated herself to making sure the voices of this community are heard, valued, and remembered.
The Sip: A glass of California Sparkling from Domaine Carneros—bright, persistent, and always ready to toast to a job well done.
Jade Hernandez in Healdsburg, CA
2. Alicia Kidd | The Community Architect
Alicia isn't just running a shop at Coco Noir; she is building a sanctuary. She has created a vibrant urban space in Oakland where culture and community come together, intentionally lifting up the voices of women and BIPOC creators.
The Oh! Moment: Alicia showed us that the future of this industry isn't found in a dusty cellar, but in inclusive spaces where everyone feels they have a seat at the table.
The Sip: P. Harrell Wines Zinfandel (a Black woman-owned label featured at Coco Noir).
Hear Her Story 👇
3. Miel García | The Cultural Bridge
Miel is a cultural ambassador for the flavors of Mexico, working alongside local taco stand owners to protect and promote the culinary heritage of Puerto Vallarta.
The Oh! Moment: Miel took me on a "taco tasting" journey, proving that the most profound connections often occur over a shared plate and a street-side stand where tradition is the main ingredient.
The Sip: A crisp, cold Mexican Lager or a Raicilla cocktail to perfectly cut through the richness of an Al Pastor taco.
Hear Her Story 👇
4. Eleanor Coppola | The Matriarch of Art
The late Eleanor Coppola navigated the worlds of cinema and wine with a grace that focused on the importance of the domestic arts and the strength of the matriarchy.
The Oh! Moment: I sat down with Eleanor to discuss the vital role women play in the business side of the wine world, from film to family to finance.
The Sip: Eleanor Red Wine, a sophisticated tribute blend as elegant as its namesake.
Hear Her Story 👇
5. Kathryn Hall | The Global Visionary
A former U.S. Ambassador to Austria, Kathryn Hall brought the world back to Napa Valley. Her life is a testament to the fact that leadership is best served with a deep respect for the land and the people who work it.
The Oh! Moment: I went "behind the bottle" with Kathryn to discuss her journey from a farmer’s daughter to a high-ranking diplomat and world-class vintner. She also taught me the “Little Bunny Foo Foo” song that I still sing to my sweeties to this day. 🥰
The Sip: The iconic HALL Kathryn Hall Cabernet Sauvignon.
Hear Her Story 👇
6. Delia Viader | The Spirit of Resilience
One of Napa’s first female winemakers, Delia Viader pioneered the rocky slopes of Howell Mountain. She is a living lesson in how to rise.
The Oh! Moment: Delia shared her story of rebuilding her entire legacy after a devastating warehouse fire destroyed her vintage, proving that elegance and resilience pair perfectly.
The Sip: The VIADER "Liquid Cashmere" proprietary Red Blend.
Hear Her Story 👇
7. Catherine Fallis, MS | The Barrier Breaker
As a Master Sommelier, Catherine is famous for her legendarily accessible "Planet Grape" philosophy and her skill with a Champagne saber—breaking barriers and bottles alike.
The Oh! Moment: I joined Catherine in her home as she works to demystify the world of fine wine, making sure everyone, regardless of budget or knowledge, feels invited to the party.
The Sip: A high-value Pinot Noir from her "Grape Goddess" guide.
Hear Her Story 👇
8. You | The Reason Our Stories Continue
To round out our eight, we celebrate you. Whether you’re the one bringing people together at your own table or the one sparking new ideas by telling us who you’d love to see on the show—you are the final, most important character in every story we tell. You are the reason we’re on the air and the reason I love what I do. Simply put: There is no "us" without you.
The Oh! Moment: As they told me 14 years ago in San Francisco, "you are who you eat with." It’s never just about what’s in your glass; it’s about the soul of the room. It’s the laughter, the shared stories, and the people sitting across from you. When we uncork a bottle, we aren't just pouring a drink—we’re opening up a conversation. We’re coming together.
The Sip: Whatever is in your glass tonight, I want you to raise that glass. Give a toast to the person in the mirror—and to this incredible community we’ve built right here. Tonight and every night we cheers to you!
The Mimosa Movement: Support Women in Your Community
In Italy, the mimosa flower represents hidden strength. The best way to celebrate International Women's Day is to lean into your community and ensure these stories continue.
Our Challenge to You: Seek out a woman-owned winery, a female winemaker, or a woman you love to celebrate. Share your connection, post a photo, and tag us! Let’s fill the feed with good news and a shared strength of our community.
I’ll start us off by shouting out Erin Di Costanzo—though she’ll always be ESully to me! To say she has a way with wine is an understatement; she is the lightning in and behind every bottle. I am so incredibly proud to watch my friend shake things up, shift the balance, and bring such a fresh, sophisticated, and elegant voice to the world of wine. It’s a true gift to see her shine.
Erin Di Costanzo, Monique Soltani
Erin Di Costanzo, Thomas Keller, Monique Soltani
I can’t wait to see the incredible women you all shout out to!
Buona Festa della Donna!!