The 001 is the culmination of a passion project that has come to life. It is proof that the best things in life happen organically and that the road less traveled is worth exploring. Marrying food and wine with tech may not be an obvious pairing, but Somm has been driven by the concept of enabling everyone to discover digitally and experience physically. It is a platform that facilitates unforgettable experiences and special, indulgent opportunities with friends and family.

Our intent is to take you on a journey and this wine is no exception. So, let’s go… to Montsant, Spain.

The winding roads of Catalonia and the refreshing Mediterranean air can’t be fully appreciated until you’ve walked the sun-soaked gardens bursting with citrus and olives, explored stone-paved streets of ancient villages such as Darmós, and enjoyed the incredible wine that this region of Spain produces. Still, Somm and The 001 can be a conduit and a story-teller, providing the canvas for you to enhance your culinary experiences, build new memories and share stories.

The 001 is not just a wine, it is a window to one of the most beautiful regions of the world. It’s also a testament to following one's passions, re-evaluating priorities in life, and believing in the power of partnerships. It’s a taste of the sheer talent behind the seven generations of history and winemaking expertise that the Joan d’Anguera family brought to this beautiful cuvée. It’s also an example of the important role global importers play in the world of wine, including our partner Cosecha with whom we collaborated to bring this wine to market, and who make incredible producers accessible for everyone to enjoy.

I have always felt that great culinary experiences are more than just the physical act of eating and drinking. They create time and space for friends and families to connect, to take a break and to nourish our bodies and souls. They can be both communal and very personal.

That dichotomy, in many ways, mirrors my journey with Somm and is why The 001 is so special. In a nutshell, Somm started as a passion project but it came to life through the support of a close community. Reflecting on who was there for me in the earliest days, it was a very small handful of friends, my parents, in-laws, partners, of course my husband and my two beloved dogs who are pictured on the label. These aren’t just any dogs. They are basenjis. And they are strikingly beautiful.

Originating from Africa, basenjis are an ancient breed that is regal, aloof, and proud. Uniquely, they cannot bark but they are incredibly alert. Their quiet, unwavering companionship was exactly what I needed as I worked to launch and grow Somm. Tireless dedication, exhaustion and joy are all feelings that any small business owner or entrepreneur can relate to… just as we never forget who was there for us in the beginning. Our stars of the label symbolize this.

The roller coaster of starting a business and raising capital within the venture landscape is probably the most volatile experience I’ve endured. It’s everything from arrogant rejection similar to what you’d see on a television show to whole-hearted belief, praise and excitement when you find your true partners. Navigating through the emotions is not for the faint of heart, and this is especially true for women, who receive less than 5% of all venture financing globally.

For these reasons, it was ever more important to be surrounded by unrelenting love, support and companionship.

While there can be incredible excitement in success and achievement, there can also be beauty and growth in difficult times. But gratitude for those who are by your side every step of the way is by far the most critical piece and this is where the inspiration for the label and The 001 originates.

On the label, you’ll see Jarvis in the bottom left and you’ll see Jake, a bit bigger, as was his size, in the top right, immortalized by the gold foil bird that symbolizes heaven. The red watercolours symbolize their colour and vibrance, well matched to the characteristics of this garnacha. Together, Jake and Jarvis represent what we’re building and what we believe are the strongest values in life, and certainly in our brand: family, partnership, pleasure, beauty and community.

I am forever grateful to my early investors, incredibly supportive Tremblay and Stasiewich family and my small network of close friends as I worked tirelessly with my team to launch the company.

When I first tasted The 001, it was not only delicious but it also had the most incredible scent I had ever experienced in a wine - quintessential aromatics for the Joan d’Anguera Estate. The palate is equally soft, complex, smooth and alluring, and it is very food versatile.

This wine is extraordinarily personal and very limited in production. I sincerely hope this story resonates with you. And of course, I also hope you immensely enjoy each and every sip of The 001.

My best,

Jennifer Tkachuk-Tremblay Stasiewich

Founder & CEO of Somm™, CEO of DINR.