Abe Zarate, The Modern

Location: New York, NY

Title: Sommelier

What's your background, and how long have you been in the beverage industry?

Like many others in hospitality, I have a background in music. I moved to New York in 2014 to work in music publishing and was disillusioned with my experience. At the same time, I worked weekends at Corkbuzz, a wine bar to make ends meet. That's where I took my first Wine 101 class.

I remember being fascinated with two ounces of wine retaining characteristics of where it "grew up," and how it could change as you spent time with it - very human qualities. After some back and forth, I decided to commit fully. I chose to remain a fan of music and lean into discovering the world of wine. 

I've been very lucky in my trajectory as I've found myself in environments that have made an otherwise intimidating and exclusive world, a very approachable one with a focus on education and inclusivity.

  What are the top three challenges to maintaining your well-being in your work?  

1. I'm three and a half years sober, so in theory, the industry as a whole is a big challenge. I've managed to reframe the way I view this world, though. I got to a point where my alcohol abuse was hurting people I love deeply. I chose to quit and try out going back to the feeling of falling in love with wine for the first time. At its core, it's always been the people and their stories.

2. I don't encounter it often, but in certain settings, some people are a bit uncomfortable when they learn about my sobriety, so I've worked on fighting the need to make them feel comfortable, as that is not my responsibility.

3. I also have to balance championing moderation/sobriety without ever coming off as judgmental over others' choices. I think this has happened naturally, though, since I only share what's worked for me without being preachy.

What are 3 things you do (or try to do) to maintain your well-being?         

Every day, I try to do at least one thing for the mind, the body, and the soul. The things I pay attention to are not uncommon (sleep, body movement, relationships, learning). It's not about reinventing the wheel. Making time for these daily is the real work. I've moved away from setting goals and created systems to fit them into my day and make sure I treat them like an important appointment on my calendar - which they are.

 What do you drink when you're not drinking alcohol?         

There are many delicious products out there, but my go-to is tonic water with lemon. It's simple and usually available in most places.

 What inspires you on your journey in the beverage industry?         

Those who come after me. I'm hoping to make their experience a little easier by becoming one example of a different way. I'm also involved with my sister's nonprofit, Corporate Pero Latinos, through which we teach English to hospitality workers in the Latinx community. Eliminating that barrier of entry for our community has given me a huge sense of purpose.

 What is a quote that you love?         

"Trust the timing of your life."

You can connect with Abe on Instagram @sober_somm and @corporateperolatinos