Women on Women-Owned
A few years ago, our Beer, Wine & Spirits manager J’Nee had a big idea—to promote the talented women in the winemaking industry that people weren’t really aware of. The project was a hit with our guests, who loved discovering these special wines they never would have known about otherwise. So we’ve made Women Winemakers our focus every March since and expanded our celebration company-wide. Meet a few of our female staffers, and the products made by women that they feel you should know about.
Explore our entire collection of women-owned businesses while it’s still available.
1
J'Nee DeLancey, T&C Ballard, Beer, Wine & Spirits Manager
Orr Wines
“Erica Orr is a winemaker in Woodinville who I first heard about when she was working for Mark Ryan Winery. Early on in her career, she spent a lot of time learning from the legendary Napa winemaker Cathy Corison. She has a great depth of knowledge, and she works with Chenin Blanc and Grenache—two of my fav varietals. It’s hard to find wines in Washington that go with our food. But Erica’s is a beautiful chenin.
I respect women in the wine and beer industry because it’s so male dominated. We’re not expected to be here and we’re often pariahs. You still don’t see a lot of women and I’m not sure why. Supporting other women is the right thing to do. But also, Orr is just really great wine."
2
Masami Hughes, T&C Poulsbo, Asian Foods Manager
Hot Pot Queen
"I love Hot Pot Queen products because no one else makes flavors like they do. Especially, mushroom chili sauce. Its savory umami flavor with chunks of mushroom is the best combination ever! I am not a spicy person at all, and this product is super spicy but I can't stop eating it. I put this on everything.
And about the noodle kit—it's so easy to make. Their noodles are wide, so it gets coated with flavorful sauce. I think that's what makes it taste so good and SPICY. I actually add a little mayo to make it mild-spicy haha."
3
Rachel Aguilar, T&C Mill Creek, Market Manager
Joyus
"I love Joyus. Right now, I’m playing the role sobriety buddy for a good friend of mine. For 9 1/2 months I’ve been staying sober in support of her, and Joyus has been a great option. I can still have a treat or celebrate, while staying sober and supporting my friend on this important journey."
4
Angie Adams, T&C Poulsbo, Cheesemonger
Twin Sisters Creamery
“I love their cheese, but I love their story even more! They’re a local creamery in Ferndale, Washington. I have known the owner Lindsay Slevin for at least 15 years when she was still just a vendor. Her dream was always to have her own creamery and she’s accomplished that! It’s a beautiful creamery and all the cheese is delicious. I love their cheddar baked farmhouse cheese, both plain, with mustard seeds and one with peppercorns! The blue cheese is also fantastic. Such a wonderful woman business owner and cheesemaker to support!”
5
Melody Amen, T&C Mill Creek, Market Manager
Ines Rosales Tortillas
“I love Ines' tortas because not only are they wonderful on their own but they really shine as a BFF for cheese! They're crispy, light and have a satisfying crunch. They come in a few flavors. The orange with soft blue cheese and a drizzle of honey is divine. One of the absolute best after-dinner sweet treats in my book.”