Influential Woman · Beverage alcohol wine
Deborah Parker Parker Wong
Global Wine Editor, SOMM Journal
San Francisco, CA 94122
Her Story
About Deborah
Deborah Wong is a wine industry educator, journalist, and global wine expert with more than two decades of experience across wine education, media, and industry analysis. Professionally, as a journalist, she began writing in 2004 for trade publications. She has held teaching certification since 2009 and has taught academic wine classes at colleges and universities since 2015, including at San Jose State University and several junior colleges in California, where she also conducts research. She holds the Wine and Spirit Education Trust diploma and achieved a Master of Science in Viticulture and Enology from California State University, Fresno. Her expertise includes wine evaluation, viticulture, sensory science, industry trends, and editorial content, with experience evaluating thousands of wines annually. She serves as Global Wine Editor for The Somm Journal and a contributor to The Tasting Panel Magazine, and is a member of the American Society of Enology and Viticulture and the California Teachers Association.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Deborah
01What do you attribute your success to?
Being endlessly curious and having a desire to keep learning. Writing stems from answering my own questions, and I stay motivated by updating lectures and discovering new things in wine, which remains endlessly fascinating.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Early advice that I wasn't well-educated enough was hurtful but motivating to work harder. Later, a colleague encouraged pursuing a master's degree, which led to growth and considering a PhD.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Opportunities exist in hospitality, wine tourism, and education for subject matter experts. Journalism roles are limited, so consider starting a Substack. Sales roles exist but can lead to burnout.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Industry faces oversupply and under demand after years of growth. Opportunities lie in communication about wine to all audiences, effective marketing and branding to dispel stereotypes and increase adoption.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Consistency and not being hypocritical, especially as a role model for students regarding moderation and professional behavior with alcohol. Christian Buddhist values like the golden rule, and family values are key, influenced by Chinese culture.
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