Women for WineSense offers education on wine

Janet Bishop makes no bones about her interest in wine.

"A whole new world opens up when you uncork a bottle of wine," she said. "Wine awakens the senses, it encourages your inquisitive nature, and it forces you to stop and savor the experience."

So it should come as no surprise that Bishop is president of the Richmond chapter of Women for WineSense.

Women for WineSense is a national group that was formed 21 years ago in Napa, Calif. The Richmond chapter was created in 2004. It has 55 members — all women, though men are welcome to join.

"Women for WineSense is unique in that it takes upon itself the role of your tour guide, your educator and your social steppingstone, offering exceptional education and awareness," said Bishop, who works for the law firm of Harman, Claytor, Corrigan & Wellman.

"Whether you are a wine professional, a wine enthusiast or an interested consumer, there is always something new to learn. Women for WineSense strives to provide an educational opportunity to enhance your knowledge and enjoyment of wine in a fun and friendly atmosphere. With 10 chapters across the U.S., we offer exceptional exposure to individuals in the wine and culinary industries who provide insight that you can apply to day-to-day living."

Bishop wasn't a member when Nancy Dezzutti, Cindy Scott, Cathy Lutzkanin and Sara Guterbock decided to join Women for WineSense. Bishop joined the Richmond chapter in 2005, and Sheri Rosner has been a member for a year.

"I joined to learn more about wine, wine and food pairings, and to network," said Rosner, an associate broker with Virginia Properties A Long & Foster Company. "I am still learning about the different wines and how to pair them with food (and) so far, the group has met my expectations. "There is a lot to learn. We have had area winemakers come to our meetings and give talks, and we have taken trips to area vineyards for tastings. We also have a lot of knowledge among our membership. Sampling the wine is definitely one of the best parts of our meetings. I also enjoy the food part of our meetings. It is interesting to see how differently wine tastes by itself and then with certain foods."

The Richmond chapter's members, who meet monthly, span all walks of life and ages. "Wine doesn't discriminate; it offers something for everyone," Bishop said.

"Our monthly meetings are designed to educate you with regard to a particular aspect of wine such as its origin, its composition, the wine-making process, etc. We offer an opportunity to sample the wines while at the same time giving you suggestions for food pairings."

What could be a better pairing than that?