Alice Achayo

Founder + Owner

Alice Achayo is a dynamic entrepreneur with a diverse background and a passion for bridging connections through the world of food and wine. With a unique journey that began with a dual major in hospitality and sustainable agriculture, specializing in eco-gastronomy, Alice was guided toward her passion through her culture’s wisdom that emphasized the vital role that agriculture and food plays in bringing people and community together. Her journey took a pivotal turning point when she realized the missing link between food, culture, and human connection in her studies.

During a transformative study abroad in Italy, she immersed herself in the culinary traditions of the region and was again reminded of the crucial connection between food in building relationships.  Her journey led her to a farming and bakery apprenticeship in Pennsylvania, where she developed a deep affection for baking bread and working the land. An experience that nurtured her love for food and sowed the seed of immense appreciation for the farmers who work the land.

As she delved into the world of hospitality, she realized her affinity for wine and its power to also connect people and enhance dining experiences. This newfound interest led her to pursue a position at a fine wine shop where her enthusiasm and dedication propelled her to achieve the prestigious WSET level III certification.

Her passion for learning and sharing her knowledge grew exponentially. Driven by a desire to make a lasting impact, she ventured into the role of sales consultant for a distributor. Here, her interests intersected as she took on the role to lead her company's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) committee, aiming to challenge and transform preconceived notions within the wine industry. 

With a clear vision and unwavering determination, she embarked on a new chapter by founding her own company, The Wine Linguist. This innovative venture is dedicated to revolutionizing the wine industry's language and culture through the lens of agriculture and people, making it more accessible and inclusive for diverse wine enthusiasts. The Wine Linguist is committed to amplifying the languages, cultures and cuisines of the global south. Moreover, it aims to shine a spotlight on winemakers and vineyard stewards who’s endeavors often go unnoticed. This is achieved through curated wine and dinner experiences that center the stories behind featured cuisines and the wines; as well as comprehensive education for both wine professionals and enthusiasts alike.

In a world where food, wine, and culture intertwine, Alice Achayo stands as a trailblazer, weaving threads of connection and understanding through her company The Wine Linguist. With her unique blend of expertise in hospitality, sustainable agriculture, and wine, she is championing a more inclusive and diverse wine industry for generations to come.

Marie-Ana Follett

Associate Creative Director

Marie-Ana (she/her) is a born and raised Bostonian and mixed Latina who strives to be a global citizen. Marie-Ana’s journey in wine started with her childhood love for food and the land. She has continually explored and cultivated these interests through formal learning and on-the-job experiences. 

Marie-Ana's interests led her to study Race, Class, and Gender and the Environment at Pomona College. Prior to her budding interest in the wine world, Marie-Ana worked in documentary filmmaking as a producer, community-based farming, corporate recruiting, diversity, equity, and inclusion, and education. These experiences brought her to California, China, and back to Boston. Last year Marie-Ana worked in wine retail in Boston, and at a Willamette Valley winery as a harvest cellar hand intern through Our Legacy Harvested.

Marie-Ana strives to bring authenticity and some humor in all that she does, and she holds a belief that we can embrace equity and community in every space, including wine. She’s incredibly excited to work with Alice and help grow The Wine Linguist in this next phase.