– Services –

EDUCATION

Wine shouldn’t feel intimidating—it should be fun, engaging, and memorable. Hillary offers private wine classes designed for curious beginners, seasoned enthusiasts, and anyone who simply wants to deepen their appreciation of wine.

Her teaching style is approachable and down-to-earth, blending storytelling with practical knowledge so you leave each class not only with new skills, but also with a deeper connection to what’s in your glass.

Classes can be customized to your interests—whether that’s learning the fundamentals of tasting, exploring the wines of a specific region, pairing food and wine, or diving into topics like natural wine or sparkling styles. Sessions can be one-on-one, for couples, or for small groups of friends looking for a unique and enriching experience.

CURATION

Building a wine collection should feel intentional, inspiring, and deeply personal. Hillary works with individuals to create organized, cohesive cellars that reflect your unique taste, whether you’re just beginning or already collecting.

Her approach blends practical expertise with an eye for long-term value. From discovering everyday bottles you’ll love to sourcing rare and age-worthy wines, Hillary ensures your cellar is both a reflection of your style and a smart investment.

Whether you want a small, thoughtful collection for dinner parties or a serious cellar designed to grow in value, Hillary’s guidance helps you curate wines with confidence. You’ll walk away with a collection that feels balanced, timeless, and ready to be enjoyed—or appreciated as it matures.

EVENTS

Looking to elevate your next gathering with the expertise of a Certified Sommelier? Hillary brings both professionalism and warmth to every event, creating an atmosphere where wine feels approachable, engaging, and unforgettable. Her events are designed to spark conversation, deepen appreciation, and leave guests with memories long after the last glass.

From corporate functions that call for a refined touch to intimate celebrations with friends and family, Hillary tailors every detail to match the tone and purpose of your event. She can design guided tastings by region, style, or theme, or curate pairings that perfectly complement your menu.

Events can be hosted at your location, at Isola Wine & Tapas in Kinderhook, or virtually for groups connecting across distances. Relax and enjoy your event knowing the wine service is in expert hands—leaving you free to savor every moment alongside your guests.

– Reviews –

"Hillary is completely outstanding. I hired her last year for my best friend's bachelorette party and the 2+ hours she taught us about wine were utterly entertaining. She makes learning fun, and has a very comforting approach. I still think of her every time I order a bottle of wine." - Jennifer DeSouza

"I hired Hillary Zio for a group tasting with my family and now wife, whom I proposed to hours after the wine event. She takes the snobby Sommelier out of the dictionairy. I knew some about wine, but my group knew nothing, yet she managed to educate each of us on different levels and individually. Now I want to hire her for one-on-one tastings and collection advice." - Gregory Evans

“Hillary has been a crucial part of our launch team, helping us by teaching wine classes that always sell out. She is able to present her vast wine knowledge in a totally fun and approachable way, which is a rare talent. She’s the coolest wine geek we know.” -Liz, Owner Kinderhook Bottle Shop