The Spirit World

Last August, I participated in the Bordeaux International Educator program held outside Boston. Returning to New York via Amtrak, I had occasion to meet Gilat Ben-Dor, CSW, MBA, whom had participated in the program as well. A relative newcomer to the world of wine, Gilat has had an eventful introduction to the industry, reinforcing her decision to take the plunge.

Unfulfilled by her former career in human resources, Gilat quit her job and, armed with her MBA and previous teaching experience, set about setting up her own wine education business in the Phoenix area. When we first met, she had not yet settled upon a name for her company. However, by November 2008, Renaissance Wine Academy debuted, along with its first newsletter. This moniker is truly fitting as it describes the rebirth of Gilat’s passion for wine, travel and culture.

When asked if there was a particular wine in her history that stood out for her, the answer came quite easily. During a 2002 dining experience at a local Scottsdale restaurant, Gilat ordered a glass of the Chameleon 2000 Syrah from California. “I was smitten by it,” she recalls. So much so that after scouring the area in vain, she finally convinced a wine shop to order a single bottle of it for her – she still has the (now empty) bottle. “That was a wine that made me sit up and take notice of other wines.”

Like a phoenix rising from the ashes of her previous work life, Gilat has found herself soaring to new heights. Prior to moving forward on her business plans, Gilat submitted an entry to the Wine Women Awards, under the amateur designation. What followed was a whirlwind that took her on an adventure of a lifetime. Not only did she qualify as one of ten finalists, beating out 381 initial entrants, but she would be flying to Paris, France to compete in the final event at the Hotel Le Bristol as the only American contestant. As you might expect, finding out that she was a finalist has been one of the most exciting moments since changing careers. It also reinforced that the global nature of the industry is not just jargon. “One minute, I was sitting at my computer in Phoenix and then somewhat suddenly, after only a few clicks of my mouse, I was transported to Paris.”

In perfect alignment, Gilat’s Parisian-based relatives would be out of town during the dates in question, leaving the apartment available for her to use.  But, Mother Nature had other plans. A big storm significantly delayed Gilat’s flight, which would mean missing the connection to Paris. Not to be deterred, Gilat walked off the gate-anchored plane, and through her cell phone found a new flight on another airline and managed to arrive in Paris in the nick of time for the contest. Not surprisingly, Gilat’s luggage wasn’t as lucky as she, but fortunately, this unflappable woman had planned ahead, packing toiletries, make-up and several outfits, including her dress for the black tie dinner, in her carry-on.

With this same energy, determination and vibrant spirit, Gilat has successfully launched her wine academy, providing classes on a wide range of wine topics. She handles a variety of events including private functions and corporate team building. A consummate professional, Gilat has earned credentials with the International Sommelier Guild, the Court of Master Sommeliers, the Society of Wine Educators, the Federation of Dining Room Professionals, and Sopexa (official Bordeaux agency of France).

While Gilat recognizes the value of practical experience, her personal educational pursuit is driven by her belief that, “education is the cornerstone to fully understand and grasp knowledge.” Gilat brings this deep knowledge to her students, where not only her expertise comes through, but also her immense passion and warmth. “I am grateful to be doing what I love. This journey through the wine industry has shown me that it’s possible for everyone to do what they enjoy.” For more information, please visit: Renaissance Wine Academy