Meet the Wine Diva
Hi, I’m Charlene,
The Wine Diva behind A Wine Diva’s Journey.
Life’s best moments deserve beautiful details.
Wine has taken me to some of the most beautiful places in the world, but the people I’ve met along the way are what keep me coming back. Because life’s best moments deserve beautiful details. Whether it’s discovering a hidden family winery in Napa Valley, finding the perfect restaurant for a special celebration, packing for a dream vacation, or uncorking a bottle that turns an ordinary evening into something unforgettable, I’m happiest when I can share those experiences with others.
My wine journey began in 2004 when my dear friend Marie introduced me to Napa and Sonoma. Growing up in the Midwest, wine was mostly White Zinfandel and whatever happened to be on the grocery store shelf. That first trip to California wine country completely changed my perspective. I spent the week tasting wines I’d never heard of, meeting passionate winemakers, and learning that every bottle has a story. I returned home with two cases of wine, countless memories, and a passion that has only grown stronger over the years.
From that moment on, I wanted to learn everything I could. I subscribed to Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast, attended tastings whenever I could, and never missed an opportunity to explore a new wine region, winery, or wine bar.
Today, living just outside Las Vegas makes it much easier to spend time in my happy place—Napa Valley. What was once an annual vacation has grown into several trips each year. I rarely miss my favorite January long weekend, return for wine club parties throughout the year, and usually plan another three- or four-day getaway each fall. If work takes me to California for a conference, it’s almost a given that I’ll add a few extra days and head north to wine country.
Over the years, I’ve explored the vineyards of Napa and Sonoma, discovered the beauty of Bordeaux, developed a deep appreciation for French rosé, and built a wine cellar that now holds more than 400 bottles. Along the way, I’ve learned that memorable wines aren’t always the most expensive ones. Some of my favorite bottles have come from small, family-owned wineries where the stories behind the wine are just as meaningful as what’s in the glass. Those personal connections—and the friendships I’ve made along the way—are what keep drawing me back year after year.
Good friends, great wine, delicious food, and memories that last long after the last pour.
One of my greatest joys isn’t just collecting wine—it’s sharing it. I love opening my home to friends and neighbors for wine tastings, themed dinners, and casual evenings where everyone gathers around the table with a great bottle and plenty of laughter.
A few years ago, I started Wine Wednesday, a monthly tradition here in Henderson, Nevada. Some months it’s an intimate group of four or five friends exploring a new winery, wine region, or a fun tasting theme. Other months, the guest list grows to include our wonderful neighbors, like our annual Christmas Eve Wine Wednesday celebration. No matter the size of the gathering, the goal is always the same: good wine, delicious food, and even better company.
If there’s one thing I enjoy almost as much as discovering a new winery, it’s creating the perfect spread to go with it. Beautiful charcuterie boards, artisan cheeses, thoughtful wine pairings, and the little details that make guests feel welcome are all part of the experience. For me, wine has never just been about what’s in the glass—it’s about bringing people together and creating memories that last long after the last pour.
Friends have affectionately nicknamed me the Wine Diva, and I’ve happily embraced the title. They know that if they’re planning a trip to wine country, I’ll gladly recommend wineries, restaurants, hidden gems, and the can’t-miss experiences that make every visit unforgettable. Honestly, helping others discover a new favorite winery brings me almost as much joy as discovering one myself.
While wine is at the heart of this journey, you’ll also find my favorite restaurants, luxury travel adventures, entertaining ideas, wine cellar organization tips, glassware and accessories I genuinely use, and carefully selected products that have earned my personal Wine Diva Approved seal. If I recommend something here, it’s because I’ve experienced it myself and truly believe it’s worth sharing.
Whether you’re planning your very first trip to Napa, searching for your next favorite bottle, looking for inspiration for your own wine adventures, or simply enjoy life’s little luxuries, I’m so glad you’re here.
Pour yourself a glass, stay awhile, and let’s discover beautiful places, unforgettable wines, delicious food, and experiences worth savoring—one journey at a time.
Cheers,
Charlene Lake
The Wine Diva
What You’ll Find Here
🍷 Family-owned wineries & unforgettable tasting experiences
✈️ Luxury travel itineraries
🍽️ Restaurants I return to again and again
🧀 Wine pairings and entertaining inspiration
👜 Wine Diva Approved products
💜 Stories that celebrate beautiful moments