On this week’s episode of The Sauce podcast, host Lauren Healey sits down with Advanced Sommelier Alisha Blackwell-Calvert, beverage director at Madrina in Webster Groves, for a conversation about wine, hospitality, and the journey behind becoming one of the most recognized beverage professionals in the country.
Alisha shares how her early love for science and curiosity about the world eventually led her to a career in wine — where chemistry, geology, and storytelling all come together in a single bottle. Now a 2025 James Beard semifinalist for Outstanding Beverage Professional, Alisha reflects on what the nomination means for her personally and for the St. Louis hospitality scene. From working in some of the city’s most respected restaurants to spending time outside the industry at Louis Vuitton, Alisha talks about the experiences that shaped her approach to hospitality and luxury service. She also shares what it takes to pursue the coveted Master Sommelier certification — one of the most difficult professional exams in the world — and why the journey matters just as much as the title. In this episode, Alisha also discusses building Madrina’s beverage program from the ground up, creating an Italian-inspired wine list that blends tradition with modern hospitality, and how travel, mentorship, and lifelong learning continue to shape her career. In this episode:
- Alisha’s journey from Webster Groves native to Advanced Sommelier
- Being named a 2025 James Beard semifinalist for Outstanding Beverage Professional
- What it takes to pursue the Master Sommelier certification
- Building Madrina’s wine and beverage program from scratch
- Alisha’s favorite St. Louis restaurants and dining spots
Presented by SWADE Dispensary, with 11 locations across Missouri. Learn more about their Passport Membership program at swadecannabis.com. Our other podcast sponsors are 4 Hands Brewing Co. and LHM.