Meet wine lover Marina Castillo!

Can you say passion? This is a wine gal who loves life and its full expression in food, wine and people. If we are talking food then Empanadas will be in the discussion. If we are talking home then Argentina will be in the mix. If we are talking people its family and friends who matter most. There is excitement in her voice as she shares her passion for flavour, discovery and adventure! This is a world traveler and a wine lover who has found a way to live her dream working with Catena Zapata – arguably Argentina’s top quality wine producers here in Vancouver.

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How did you come to live in Vancouver?
“I was born and raised in Argentina, but I moved to Canada in 2012 looking to travel and improve my English skills. I’ve been working with the Catena Zapata Family since 2017, first as the Asia brand ambassador (based in Beijing) and now as the Canada export manager for Catena Zapata and brand ambassador for Alamos for the USA in Vancouver.”

When did you discover your passion for wine?
“It happened by accident when I moved to Mendoza to pursue my BA in International Relations. I was invited to an “Asado” (Argentina’s sacred BBQ) where the only drink offered was wine. When I asked for another beverage (I didn’t like wine at the time!), I was told: “This is Mendoza. You either drink wine or die out of thirst.” So I tried it. Turns out wine became my new companion and we have been best friends ever since. My first love was an elegant, oaky, fruit-driven, velvety Malbec. Malbec still has a place in my heart.”

Why Good Wine Gal?
I heard that Mark Shipway was teaching wine sessions on Good Wine Gal. It seemed like the perfect opportunity to "keep wine knowledge alive in a very interesting, interactive and fun way".  What I love about Good Wine Gal sessions is the holistic approach to creating an online wine community through classes and the variety of subjects and instructors. Mark’s classes focus on wine, regional history, local foods and his wine recommendations. Barb makes participants feel comfortable about sharing their tasting notes and moderating the session, making it engaging and fun. I also enjoyed the very informative Port Wine session with Cynthia Opsal!”