It’s been a while…but we decided to roll out Hoboken Girl of the Week for your reading pleasure. Dedicated to recognizing the amazing femme fatales in and around the mile square, we love showcasing creative and strong women who are show stoppers and go-getters. This specific Hoboken Girl of the Week has a taste for grapes, and is currently a wine buyer and manager of Madame Claude Wine in Hamilton Park, Jersey City. Already a French fanatic, her love of wine followed when she studied abroad in Nice, French. A few years later, she achieved her Advanced Certificate from the International Wine Center in NYC. In addition to managing MCW, she founded Lourdes of the Vine where she hosts wine classes, corporate wine tastings and private wine parties. Without further ado, here are our questions for the HG of the Week:
Follow Lourdes @lourdesofthevine
What is your favorite restaurant in Hoboken?
It’s a toss up between 2. La Isla (because of my half Cuban nationality) and Dozzino (for my Italian side, and who doesn’t love byob, awesome pizza, and nutella crostini!!!)
What is your favorite boutique in Hoboken?
Since I’ve picked up knitting as a hobby, I would have to say Patricia’s Yarn Shop. The staff is always so helpful and they have some amazing quality wool and beautiful colors! I am still VERY much a beginner but I definitely plan to pick up some more advanced skills in 2015.
What is your favorite thing about Hoboken?
It’s hard to not love, much like Jersey City, the proximity of stores and things to do. It’s even better that I have friends that all live within walking distance!
What is your favorite thing to do in Hoboken?
Luckily, I’ve gotten that chance to be involved in a few of the sports leagues based out of Hoboken like Zog Sports. Its a great way to meet people and keeps me involved with my favorite sport, soccer, and playing classic ones like kickball.
How long have you lived in the area?
I’ve been working in the area for the past 6 years and living here for the past 4 years.
What is your favorite outdoor place to hang out in Hoboken?
I really love the rooftop at City Bistro or the Bocce court at Dozzino’s.
Where do you go out in Hoboken?
Pier 13 is usually where I like to be in the warm weather, but I also enjoy Coopers Union. Louise and Jerry’s has also been a favorite spot of mine since I spent my 21st Birthday there!
What would you like to see come to Hoboken?
I think a wine bar “revolution” would be great! Places to go that are dedicated to presenting the masses with affordable and delicious wine and that offer a little wine lesson with the experience!
What inspired your business?
My customers inspired me. Admittedly, at that time I started my position as manager of Madame Claude Wine Shop, I had very limited wine knowledge and there was no time for that! The customers needed my advice picking out good wine without breaking the bank! As a student learning about wine, I struggled often. I felt intimidated by those who knew much more than me and I got “lost” in wine conversation at many times. Wine is also a business that is associated with words like “snob” or “connoisseur” and I wanted to be the opposite of that. Keeping that goal in mind and after obtaining my certifications, I created Lourdes of the Vine. My main objective is to provide those who are interested in learning more about wine and those who want to become smarter consumers, a fun, educational and down to earth setting in which to do so. Currently, I am able to share the “word of wine” by providing my services for private wine tastings/events and hosting themed classes once a month at Madame Claude Café.
Lourdes can be followed on Instagram and Facebook at @LourdesoftheVine, Madame Claude Wine, and Madame Claude Café.
The best part is that Lourdes will be one of our new 2015 contributors — discussing all things wine {and cheese} without the side of snob, if you know what I mean. COMING SOON!
Want to be the next Hoboken Girl of the Week? Email hobokengirlblog@gmail.com a little bit about yourself!
