Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jane Portalupi, Owner of Portalupi Winery, located in Healdsburg, CA, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

My husband and I started Portalupi Wine in 2002 with a vision of developing a very unique portfolio of Cal-Ital wines. We work with some of the most renowned multi-generation growers who share our passion for bringing to the forefront this wonderful collection of wines. My Mission is to produce wines worthy of my Italian Heritage.

Tell us about yourself

My background is in Fashion Retail marketing. I worked for years at the executive level at Norstrom and Eddie Bauer and always loved developing brands. My work history is to work from the bottom up. I embrace every aspect of the business. I have always had a certain amount of naiveté and confidence that has served me well. It makes me fearless. Building the Portalupi brand has been all about detail. Every single touchpoint and experience has a story attached and a reason that ties into the brand.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Creating the Portalupi culture. At Portalupi, we use the term “Cal-Ital,” which to us is the ultimate Modo di Vivere, honoring Old Traditions while inspiring certain magic, spirit, and rich texture within our everyday lives. We invite you to experience our Cal-Ital lifestyle, a celebration of life and love! This is expressed in everything we do and provides a memorable experience to everyone who walks in the door.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

Consistently being disciplined. As soon as something is not working, being in action-my commitment is to not miss a beat. When COVID hit, I immediately went into action. I updated the tasting room interior, marketing materials, and reservations system, built a first-class outdoor parklet, and literally did not stop. We adjusted to the change.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Love your product.
  2. Focus on your story.
  3. Be relentless with customer service (employees and customers).

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

To have a strong work ethic and be passionate. Live by respecting everyone. Having a small business in hospitality humbled me in a way that I see the beauty in everyone that comes in-everyone has a story to tell.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://portalupiwine.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PortalupiWine/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/portalupiwine/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/PortalupiWine
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jane-portalupi-borges-430a01/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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