Kristin Olszewski Disrupts Wine Industry with Premium Canned Wines
Kristin Olszewski, a sommelier and founder of Nomadica, challenged traditional wine norms by packaging premium, zero-sugar wines in eco-friendly aluminum cans. Despite initial skepticism, Nomadica now thrives in 25 states, selling through major retailers like Whole Foods and Sprouts, with plans to expand further. Kristin’s innovative approach and commitment to sustainability are reshaping the $385 billion wine industry, proving the power of resilience and fresh ideas.
Kristin Olszewski, a high-end sommelier and founder of Nomadica, saw beyond traditional wine norms, choosing to package premium wine in aluminum cans—a move met with skepticism. Her disruptive idea is now gaining traction, challenging the $385 billion wine industry.
Kristin’s background in elite restaurants and passion for sustainable agriculture led her to a unique business insight. While rivals focused on value wines, she identified a burgeoning market in premium canned wines. This insightful pivot came at a time when few in her field recognized the opportunity.
In 2017, Kristin introduced Nomadica, offering curated, zero-sugar wines in eco-friendly packaging. Facing initial ridicule from the wine community, including her peers, she recalls the skepticism she encountered. “I can’t tell you how often I was laughed out of rooms,” she shared. But the doubters were mistaken.
Today, Nomadica is thriving and available in 25 states, selling through major retailers like Whole Foods and Sprouts, with aspirations to enter Target by 2025. Named Rising Drinks Brand of the Year, Nomadica’s success highlights the growing trend of canned premium wines.
Kristin’s unique perspective as a sommelier sets her apart. “I’m the only founder with wine experience,” she notes, which allows her to see industry shifts others miss. Her ability to spot emerging trends, like the popularity of orange wine, gave her a first-to-market advantage with canned nationwide distribution.
Maintaining transparency with her investors and building a supportive board has been key to Kristin’s strategy. She values honest communication about Nomadica’s challenges and triumphs, which has fostered trust and solid partnerships.
Despite her achievements, Kristin remains committed to innovation. She continually adapts to consumer preferences, understanding that millennials and Gen Z are informed, discerning buyers. Her approach challenges outdated notions that younger generations are easily swayed by marketing alone.
Focusing on strong partnerships and deliberate growth, Kristin built Nomadica by first establishing collaborations with premium venues. Although she faced advice to hasten expansion, her methodical path ensured a robust brand reputation before moving into mass retail.
As a woman in a male-dominated field, Kristin’s persistence has been crucial. Her efforts to make the wine industry more accessible and less pretentious are paying off, with canned wines priced above $15 being one of the few sectors experiencing growth.
Kristin’s journey, from facing skepticism to being a recognized industry innovator, serves as inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs. Her story emphasizes the power of believing in one’s vision and the impact of challenging conventional wisdom.
Kristin Olszewski’s journey illustrates the potential of innovative thinking and resilience in business. By trusting her instincts and embracing a novel concept, she not only disrupted a traditional industry but also set a new standard for premium wine accessibility. Her path encourages others to pursue their unique ideas with confidence.
Source: Entrepreneur
