Alexandria Sarovich is the executive wine director of Little Saint, a plant-based restaurant, cafe, bar, wine lounge and events venue in Downtown Healdsburg in Sonoma County. “We have a 500-plus bottle collection of retail wines from all over the world, with a focus on wines that lessen their impact on the earth.” Learn about Alexandria Sarovich…
Hometown: I grew up in Lombard, Illinois, about 20 miles west of Chicago.
First job: My first job was a lifeguard. It was one of the few jobs I could get before I turned 16, and I love the water!
Favorite ways to spend your free time in CA: My favorite ways to spend free time in California largely relate to enjoying the great outdoors. Whether it is hiking or biking or taking a drive out to the coast, I like to unplug and appreciate the beauty around me.
Your biggest accomplishment and why: My biggest accomplishment was passing my Advanced Sommelier Exam with the Court of Master Sommeliers back in 2019. It took me years, thousands of hours to prepare for the exam, and passing it on my first try made me feel like all of the hard work I put into it was achieved
The biggest obstacle you overcame: Gosh, so many challenges! My biggest obstacle I still am overcoming is being my own best friend. It is so easy for me to be nice and kind to everyone else when at times, I struggle to have the same positive self-talk.
Someone who inspires you and why: I am inspired by so many incredible women in this wine industry. Our owner and director Laurie Ubben and Jenny Hess are two sisters that had a vision and put in the work every day to make Little Saint special with that they inspire me daily.
Advice to someone pursuing a career path in what you do: Find your people! Mentorship is extremely important in the wine industry. Find a wine director or a sommelier that you can connect with and who is willing to invest in you, and do the same.
Favorite quote: “Shoot for the moon, even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.” My mom instilled early in my life that anything is possible, and I love this quote because it reminds me to enjoy the journey, take risks and trust the universe.
Something someone would be surprised to learn about you: I skipped second grade, and I am the oldest of five.
What makes someone fabulous: Their ability to be their true authentic self. No one is you, and that is your power.