The Decanted Diva

Ellisa Cooper has built a considerable following and reputation working with retailers, restaurants, importers, wineries, and consumers. Active in both the retail and wholesale aspects of distribution, Ellisa has been instrumental in changing the way wine is marketed, having introduced information technology to the wine-buying process. 

As the US Brand Ambassador for Babylonstoren, an historic farm and winery in the Western Cape of South Africa, Ellisa secured distribution, created a direct-to-consumer solution, and manages sales and events in the northeast. 

In addition, Ellisa serves as the wine educator for Bottlerocket, a unique wine store in New York City’s Flatiron District. She leads private and corporate wine events throughout the year. 

 For many years, she was the Director of Education and Events at The Barterhouse, an importer and distributor specializing in wines from Europe and the US and in rare and collectible wine. She organized bi-annual portfolio tastings and educated the sales staff and clients. 

 Previously, Ellisa was the Director of Education for the original Discovery Wines in New York City.  She collected and organized information on all wine selections for the educational in-store kiosks. It was one of the first wine stores to incorporate technology into retail. You can read more about the experience in Natalie MacLean’s book Red, White, and Drunk All Over.  

She was also instrumental in the opening of Hunter’s Point Wine & Spirits in Long Island City and Picada y Vino (formerly located in Park Slope). 

Ellisa studied at the American Sommelier Association and with The Court of Master Sommeliers. She has an extensive knowledge of all things wine related. Her passion is helping consumers cultivate the essential knowledge they need to fully enjoy wine—with humor and no judgement.