IRENE GRAZIOTTO
Senior Wine Media Strategist, Colangelo & Partners
Age: 39 First Industry Job: I joined the wine world as a young writer when I was in my early twenties Favorite Drink: A Vermouth on the rocks with an orange twist
Irene Graziotto worked for I Grandi Vini for over 7 years, reporting about all things wine: from technical news about vineyards and cellars and the latest farming approaches and winemaking technologies, to winemakers ' styles and consumer trends, shaking hands with those who are writing the wine history at a global level.
“ I was driven to the wine industry by the possibility the explore and work in an exciting multi-faceted world where I would be finally able to combine in one business all my several interests, from botanics to history, from languages to design,” Graziotto says.
Today, she works in NYC with the special role of Senior Wine Media Strategist at one of the most respected US PR agencies. She works ith some of the world most respected and sought after brands such Champagne Louis Roederer, Masseto, French Bloom( part of the LVMH group) and institutions such as Christie ' s.
Along the way, she has racked up an impressive amount of accomplishments, including:
• In 2019, she was shortlisted for the WSET / IWSC‘ Future 50 Awards’ awarding personalities who are revolutionizing the wine world
• In 2021, her article " Vigna Quattro Stati, Slovenia " was published on JancisRobinson. com
• In 2023, she became a member of the NYC Chapter of Les Dames d ' Escoffier, a collective of forward-thinking and successful female leaders in all sectors of the food, beverage and hospitality industries
• She collaborates with Columbia Law School Wine Club
• She also serve as Panelist, Wine judge, and University lecturer at Sant ' Anna, one of the most respected Universities in Italy
In terms of setting personal goals, she“ makes sure to be constantly updated on what ' s new, not only in our wine business but especially outside. Sometimes, the wine business tends to behave like it was living in its own wine bubble, but it ' s actually deeply intertwined with society, more than many other businesses.”
A key mentor of hers was famed British wine critic Jancis Robinson.“ I have always taken as an example of her preparation and determination, which led her to become one of the most esteemed wine critic of all times,” Graziotto explains.
Asked for advice she might give to a young professional in the industry, Graziotto replies,“ The beverage industry is a dynamic multifaceted business, which is constantly evolving and remains compelling and fascinated over the years. It ' s a business that allows [ you ] to grow a solid domestic and international network of people who love to share a bottle together around a table.”
ALEXIS MASON
Shareholder, GrayRobinson, P. A.
Age: 33 First industry job: Alcohol beverage team associate at GrayRobinson, P. A. Favorite drink: Sauvignon Blanc
Beginning her career in the beverage alcohol industry at Gray- Robinson, P. A., Alexis Mason found a passion helping advise various clients on regulatory and licensing considerations for mergers and acquisitions.
Today, she remains at
GrayRobinson, continuing to help clients fulfill their goals. As an attorney specializing in alcohol beverage law, she bridges the gap between regulation and innovation, helping producers, distributors and retailers navigate complex legal frameworks while encouraging responsible growth.
Throughout the years, Mason has advised emerging craft brands and national suppliers alike, championing compliance strategies that strike a balance between public safety, business agility and community impact. With a reputation for integrity, innovation and mentorship, she embodies the collaborative, forward-thinking spirit that defines the future of the beverage alcohol industry.
Due to her hard work, Mason has played a key role in maintaining GrayRobinson’ s beverage alcohol practices as a nationally recognized leader. As part of a collaborative team, she has contributed to streamlining regulatory processes, expanding client services into emerging markets and supporting colleagues in developing deeper industry expertise.
Through her efforts, alongside those of her peers, the practice has experienced significant growth in both revenue and reputation, serving an expanded portfolio of businesses in and entering into the alcohol industry.
Mason hopes to continue doing what she loves, all while expanding her presence in the beverage industry. She also hopes to continue staying ahead of trends in the space to ensure she is well-positioned to advise clients on any evolving landscapes.
Mason’ s advice to other young professionals in the industry? Keep working hard.
“ Identify a good mentor who can help you master the ins and outs of the industry and constantly remind yourself that you can and will find the answer to what you’ re working on,” she says.“ I’ m a firm believer in‘ where there’ s a will, there’ s a way.’”
2026 BEVERAGE INFORMATION GROUP 40 UNDER 40 9