Experience & Approach

Hi, I’m Samantha Mercado, the founder of Wine & Whiskey — a mobile, education-first tasting experience built around one simple belief: wine and whiskey should be fun, approachable, and easy to understand.

​

After more than 16 years in the wine and spirits industry, I’ve learned that the best tastings don’t feel intimidating or overly formal. They feel relaxed, engaging, and informative — the kind of experience where people learn something new and actually enjoy what’s in their glass.

​

My Background

I began my career right here in Northeast Ohio, working with local distributors Purple Feet, Solera, and Wine Trends, covering territory from Toledo through downtown Cleveland. That experience gave me a strong foundation in wine education, sales, and working directly with restaurants, retailers, and private clients.

I later moved into leadership roles as an Area Manager with Winesellers, followed by Laird & Company, expanding my experience across portfolio management, brand education, and spirits. Along the way, education became the common thread — not just learning the material, but learning how to explain it in a way that makes sense to real people.

​

Today, I bring that experience directly to clients through guided wine and whiskey tastings.

​

What I Do

Wine & Whiskey is a mobile tasting experience. I travel to your home, office, venue, or event space to host guided wine or whiskey tastings for:

• Corporate and office events

• Client appreciation

• Employee engagement activities

• Fundraisers

• Birthdays and anniversaries

• Girls’ night out

• Family gatherings

• Private celebrations

 

I charge $35 per person.  The host provides the alcohol and food.

I provide the glassware, tasting notes, education, and presentation.

​

Every tasting is structured but relaxed, designed to meet guests where they are — whether they’re brand new to wine or bourbon, or already enthusiasts.

​

Why Fun & Education Are Always at the Center

Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand that people learn best when they’re comfortable.

My tastings focus on helping guests:

• Understand what they’re tasting

• Learn simple terminology that actually sticks

• Discover their personal preferences

• Feel confident ordering wine or whiskey in the future

• ​

There’s no pressure, no pretension, and no one is expected to “know the right answers.” The goal is to learn, enjoy, and have a great time doing it.

​

Rooted in Northeast Ohio — Willing to Travel

I’ve lived in Northeast Ohio my entire life and call Westlake home with my husband, David Mercado. We have four kids — Aubrey, Kelsey, Carter, and Jackson — and two dogs named Barley and Rye, which feels especially fitting given my line of work.

In September 2025, Aubrey made us grandparents for the first time — a role I’m happily embracing.

My husband owns his own Merrill Lynch practice, working out of Pepper Pike and Crocker Park, which keeps our family connected to both the East and West sides of Cleveland.

While Northeast Ohio is home, I’m currently spending the winter months in Naples, Florida. Wine & Whiskey is a mobile experience, and I’m willing to travel for tastings, events, and special bookings.

Travel availability and pricing may vary by location.

Contact me directly to discuss details and custom pricing.

​

Wine & Whiskey isn’t just a business here — it’s part of the community I’ve always called home.

​

The Experience

Wine & Whiskey tastings are educational experiences, not bar service or catering. They’re designed to create conversation, confidence, and connection — long after the last glass is poured.

If you’re looking for a tasting that’s thoughtful, fun, and tailored to your group, I’d love to bring the experience to you.