WORLD CLASS SOMMELIERS

Somm Squad

At Somm Squad, we believe that every exceptional event deserves an extraordinary wine experience. Founded and led by celebrity sommelier Erin Swain-whose expertise has been featured in Vogue, Coastal Living, Men’s Health, Rolling Stone, and more-our team is dedicated to elevating your gatherings with world-class wine and beverage service.

Based in New York City but available to travel worldwide, Somm Squad is a collective of passionate, highly trained sommeliers who share Erin’s commitment to craftsmanship, education, and unforgettable hospitality. Whether it’s an exclusive gala, a high-profile charity event, or an intimate private tasting, our squad curates personalized wine journeys tailored to your guests and occasion.

We pride ourselves on blending deep knowledge with a warm, approachable style-making wine and spirits accessible, exciting, and memorable for every palate. From thoughtfully curated pairings to seamless service, Somm Squad transforms your event into a sophisticated celebration of flavor and connection.

Join us and experience the art of wine elevated by the passion and expertise of Erin Swain and her Somm Squad.

Erin at Work

Services:

Private Galas & Luxury Events

Our At Somm Squad, we specialize in crafting exquisite wine and beverage experiences tailored to the sophistication and scale of your private galas and luxury events. Led by Erin Swain and her expert team, we provide seamless, polished service that elevates every moment-from grand arrivals to intimate conversations. Whether you’re hosting a charity fundraiser, exclusive celebration, or black-tie affair, our sommeliers curate thoughtfully selected wine pairings and bespoke cocktail programs that perfectly complement your menu and ambiance. With meticulous attention to detail and a flair for hospitality, we transform your event into an unforgettable celebration of taste and elegance.

Corporate Experiences

Elevate your corporate gatherings with Somm Squad’s immersive wine and spirits experiences designed to engage, educate, and inspire your team or clients. From interactive tastings and team-building workshops to executive retreats and client appreciation events, our sommeliers bring professionalism and passion to every occasion. We customize each experience to align with your company’s culture and goals, offering approachable education alongside sophisticated flavor journeys. Whether in-person or virtual, our corporate programs foster connection, spark conversation, and leave a lasting impression.

Consulting & Curation

Somm Squad offers expert consulting and curation services for private collectors, luxury venues, and discerning clients seeking to refine their wine programs. Led by Erin Swain, our team provides personalized cellar design, wine list development, and procurement guidance that reflect your unique tastes and investment goals. We combine market insight, deep industry relationships, and an expert palate to source exceptional wines and craft balanced, compelling selections. Whether you’re building a private collection or elevating a restaurant’s beverage menu, Somm Squad delivers thoughtful, strategic solutions that enhance value and enjoyment.

Meet the SOMM SQUAD

  • Erin Swain

    FOUNDER

  • Heidi Shandi

    SOMMELIER

  • Michaela Johnson

    SOMMELIER

  • Heather Barr

    SOMMELIER

  • Kerri Larkin

    MARKETING DIRECTOR

  • Jamie Kokot

    SOMMELIER

Connoisseurs

Somm Squad serves a discerning clientele who appreciate the art of fine wine and exceptional hospitality. Our audience includes luxury event planners, high-profile hosts, corporate leaders, and private collectors who seek unparalleled expertise and personalized service for their most important occasions. Whether it’s an exclusive gala in New York City, a prestigious charity fundraiser, or an intimate private celebration, our clients value sophistication, authenticity, and seamless execution.

They are passionate about creating memorable experiences that delight their guests and elevate every detail-from thoughtfully curated wine pairings to immersive educational moments. With a global perspective and a commitment to excellence, Somm Squad’s audience expects nothing less than world-class sommeliers who bring both professionalism and warmth to every event.

Handpicked and mentored by Erin Swain, the Somm Squad is a collective of accomplished sommeliers who share a dedication to excellence, education, and hospitality. Each member brings a unique background and a wealth of experience from top restaurants, luxury hotels, and global wine destinations. United by a passion for wine and a commitment to personalized service, our team is adept at creating bespoke beverage experiences for any occasion.

Whether guiding guests through a rare wine tasting, designing custom pairings for a gala dinner, or leading interactive masterclasses, the Somm Squad sommeliers are known for their expertise, approachability, and attention to detail. Together, they embody the spirit of Somm Squad: elevating every event with knowledge, warmth, and a touch of New York sophistication.

SOMM SQUAD

Meet Erin Swain

Erin Swain is a celebrated sommelier, wine educator, and mixologist whose dynamic career has made her one of the most recognized wine professionals on the East Coast and beyond. As a native New Yorker, Erin has built her reputation at some of the most acclaimed restaurants in the country, including Nick & Toni’s, Estiatorio Milos at Hudson Yards, and La Fin in the Hamptons-venues renowned for their luxury wine programs and award-winning service. She is currently part of the opening team for world-class chef Daniel Boulud’s newest NYC steakhouse, where she continues to set the standard for excellence in wine curation and hospitality.

Erin’s journey began in 2004 with Bon Appétit magazine, but her true calling emerged when she combined her love of the outdoors with her growing passion for wine. After earning her Certified Sommelier credential from the Court of Master Sommeliers in 2007, Erin’s career flourished in luxury destinations, where her approachable style and deep knowledge quickly set her apart. She has been a key member of wine teams that have received Wine Spectator accolades for their outstanding wine lists and service, further cementing her status as a leader in the industry.

Her innovative approach to wine education is showcased in her online series “Wine Time,” which features interviews with renowned winemakers and industry icons such as Daniel Daou, Bob Biali, Kevin Zraly, and James Molesworth of Wine Spectator. Erin’s ability to make wine approachable and engaging has led to features in top publications including Vogue, Rolling Stone, Town & Country, Men’s Health, Delish, Coastal Living, Furthermore from Equinox, and more. She has also led high-profile virtual events on platforms like tryhungry.com, becoming the first female sommelier to teach wine education on the Jay-Z and Kevin Hart-backed platform.

Beyond her accolades in the wine world, Erin is known for her adventurous spirit as a surfer, snowboarder, and world traveler. She brings this energy and creativity to every aspect of her work, from hosting wine tastings at Burning Man to leading wine appreciation classes at luxury resorts. Her philosophy-rooted in authenticity, inclusivity, and a laid-back approach-has made her a favorite among clients, students, and colleagues alike.

Erin Swain’s commitment to excellence, her award-winning experience with Wine Spectator-recognized teams, and her engaging presence both in-person and online have made her a true ambassador for wine culture. Whether curating cellars, leading exclusive events, or educating the next generation of wine lovers, Erin continues to inspire with her passion, expertise, and unmistakable New York flair

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