About Vinera Wine Society

For the past 20 years, wine and travel have been my passion and way of life. This journey has resulted in strong relationships with winemakers and co-workers but most importantly, it has allowed me to achieve my ultimate goal of sharing my passion for wine and travel. Sharing and making you fall in love with the world of wine is Vinera’s main focus and I am thrilled to be your guide. Together, we will discover the old and new world of wine while creating memories and long lasting friendships!

Liza, an essential member of Vinera Wine Society since 2002, is driven by a profound passion for matching people with wines. With a love for wine, travel, and connecting with others, Liza’s role at Vinera has allowed her to indulge in all three passions. Her journey into the world of international wines started during her initial European trip years ago, where she uncovered the nuances that make each wine unique. Liza continues to expand her palate and knowledge through frequent travels abroad, ensuring a continuous “refresh” in her understanding of international wines.

For over 20 years, Julene has embarked on an amazing journey of wine and travel with Vinera Wine Society. Her passion is to guide people through their personal journey with wine, while also traveling the world with others and bringing the world of wine to life! The relationships she has cultivated along the way have deeply influenced the person she is today. Julene takes great pride in pouring some of the best wines the world has to offer. Beyond the quality of wine Vinera offers, Julene values everything behind it—the people, her co-workers, and clients—making this more than just a job to her.

Cardi, originally from Alabama, brings her extensive experience in the wine industry through years of bartending at high-end events and upscale venues. Her enthusiasm and passion for wine shine through in every interaction, as she is dedicated to making your wine experience truly exceptional. By attentively catering to your preferences and needs, Cardi ensures she selects the perfect wines to suit any occasion. With her warm personality and expertise, Cardi is committed to delivering a memorable and personalized wine journey.

Jason Frantl, our newest member of the team, is no stranger to the wine business. Jason started his journey in connecting clients with fine wines in 2005. This is where he met a Sommelier named Ricardo Richardson in the same business who mentored him on what to study, read, and most importantly what to drink! This is where his appreciation and passion for smaller vineyards really took hold. Jason began hosting wine tastings in the Milwaukee-area  where he was born and raised. As a Senior Executive wine consultant for PRP Wines, his love for connecting the perfect wines for his clients needs, made him lifelong relationships that continue to this day. While traveling around the United States, France and Dubai, Jason developed a love for traveling and being introduced to new cultures. His vast wine knowledge, fun and relaxed approach allow his clientele to make an informed decision on which wines to keep in the cellar.

Jaime was born and raised in Caguas, Puerto Rico, and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from Saint Joseph’s College in Rensselaer, Indiana. He holds a WSET Level 2 certification in wine and is currently pursuing his Level 3, showcasing his commitment to deepening his expertise. As an actor, Jaime blends storytelling with a passion for wine, creating engaging and educational experiences. He aims to be the trusted friend who helps you find the perfect wine for any occasion, elevating your wine journey with every tasting.

Sarah Zamora, a San Diego native and Court of Master Sommeliers Introductory Sommelier, combines her love of wine with a flair for creating unforgettable experiences. As the wife of a chef and a homeschooling mom to three professional actresses, she brings creativity and passion to everything she does, inspired by her family’s shared love for culinary arts, performing arts, and new adventures. Forever learning and constantly exploring, Sarah has found her niche in natural wines and those crafted by women. She’s excited to help you discover the wines that excite you and create moments to savor!

Janis developed a deep love for fine wines while traveling through Europe with nothing but a backpack. Exploring each country, she discovered the unique flavors and characteristics of wines from stunning vineyards across the continent. Each region offered its own distinct taste, fueling a passion for wine that followed her back to California. With studies in Viticulture, Oenology, and wine management, Janis has worked in the wine industry for over 15 years. Her expertise and dedication have led to crafting boutique-style wines for small, local vineyards in Temecula, California. Janis is passionate about sharing the journey of wines from around the world, bringing the story of each glass to life.

Joy has been an integral part of the Vinera Wines team for 15 years, bringing a wealth of experience to her role as an international wine consultant. She finds immense joy in building strong relationships with clients and introducing them to exceptional wines from across the globe. Joy’s expertise extends to pairing Vinera Wines with delectable cuisine, with a special fondness for Italian Amarone. Outside of work, she indulges in smooth Jazz, dancing, culinary adventures, quality time with family, and leisurely walks with her beloved four-legged companion, Ginger.

The best advice that I ever got was ”Just go” and so I did. Working with Vinera Wine Society, I realized that traveling is more than just packing a suitcase, buying a ticket and sending postcards, now I travel with every sip of wine. Sometimes I travel back in time, sometimes in the future and there are times when I just sit back and watch the day pass me by. And yes, there are still places and faces that I wish to see and discover and how lucky would I be if you would join me on this journey of gypsy hearts in a search of the truth that lies only in wine.