Wynn Las Vegas Somm Cristie Norman: The Question No One Had Ever Asked Her

Cristie Norman brings bold energy, heart, and a wealth of experience to this powerful episode of The Wine Centric Show. As Lead Sommelier at Delilah at the Wynn Las Vegas, Cristie opens up about her evolution from aspiring opera singer to nationally recognized wine educator, and how her path through hospitality has shaped her passion for leadership, mentorship, and impact.Cristie shares the personal journey that led her to wine, including a life-shifting Zen retreat that changed how she sees achievement, and why she ultimately chose not to pursue her Advanced Sommelier certification. “No one’s ever asked me that before,” she admits, as she reflects on redefining success in a high-pressure industry.📍 What You’ll Learn:Why First Growth Bordeaux is trending at Delilah at Wynn Las VegasCristie’s personal go-to styles of ChablisHow tariffs affect the wine industry and her wine listThe business side of wine: building programs, mentoring teams, and being unapologetically honestHer work with United Sommeliers Foundation, which has distributed nearly $2 million in aidThe pairing she’ll never forget: Oysters + Fino Sherry at SommCon Cristie is more than a sommelier, she’s a leader, educator, and visionary helping shape the future of wine.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Kristi Norman and Delilah02:47 Exploring Wine Choices and Trends05:48 The Role of a Sommelier in Las Vegas08:35 The Art of Wine Inventory Management11:27 From Opera to Wine: Kristi's Journey14:10 The Business of Wine and Personal Philosophy16:49 The United Sommelier Foundation and Its Impact19:51 Future Aspirations and Industry Challenges22:43 Closing Thoughts and Memorable Pairings🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into wine culture.🎧 Listen now on YouTube + all podcast platforms🔗 Full episode and show notes at winecentricshow.comWe’re grateful for the support of our episode partners:▪️Fearrington House: https://fearrington.com/▪️Heather Donovan Real Estate: https://heatherdhomes.com/▪️Conscious Strong: https://consciousstrong.com/