Uncorked with The One Group's Stephanie Castaneda

[Laughs] Yes! I was born in Brooklyn, New York and lived there until I was ten and then we moved to Guatemala until I was 20.

My parents were restaurant owners in Guatemala.

I once wanted to be a veterinarian, but I quickly realized that wasn’t going to work—just the sight of an injured animal brings me to tears.

Unfortunately, I travel too much to have pets, but I absolutely adore dogs.

Definitely not a foodie! McDonald’s was my favorite growing up—and to this day, it’s still one of my guilty pleasures.

Unfortunately, I don't, but I vividly remember falling in love with it about ten years ago at an impromptu wine tasting. Seeing people's reactions—their passion and joy—made me feel instantly happy.

I was having dinner with friends who owned a wine shop in Los Angeles. They had traveled the world seeking out exceptional wines from small, independent producers. That night, they introduced me to Amarone—and it was the moment that truly solidified my love for wine.

I started as an Executive Assistant to a nightclub owner in Los Angeles and eventually transitioned to working at the club itself. He taught me everything I know about hospitality.

Answered an online job posting.

I brought my true sense of hospitality—where every guest is treated like a VIP, and genuinely getting to know them is part of the experience.

When a wine has a great story behind it, an eye-catching label, or something unique that makes it stand out, we’re instantly more excited to try it—hoping the juice inside lives up to the rest.

We always start with the traditional RFP process to see what our partners are bringing to the table—but discovery doesn’t stop there. I’m constantly dining out, and I make it a ritual to order something unfamiliar or something I haven’t tasted in ages. It keeps my palate curious and reminds me that great wines often find you when you’re not looking for them.

I think exploring wine is all about timing. It depends on where you are in your journey—I wouldn’t pour an Amarone for someone just starting out. It’s one of those wines you come to appreciate once you’ve fallen a little deeper in love with wine.

We refresh our program once a year, but we’re always keeping our eyes—and our glasses—open. When a wine feels right, when it just fits the moment, we don’t wait for the calendar to tell us to add it.

In curating our list, we look at how guests will receive the wine—whether it’s something they’ll recognize and get excited about, if the price feels right, and if it’s something we can count on being available.

Trends come and go, and guests will always explore what’s new. But when it comes to wine and food, people ultimately gravitate back to what feels right—what comforts them, what connects.

When it comes to STK, I don’t think there’s been a dramatic shift. Guests still come to celebrate—it's part of the brand’s DNA. They’re enjoying their favorite wines and spirits, but with a bit more balance and moderation than before.

Red is my go-to. I haven’t met a red wine varietal I didn’t like.

Indian. I love Indian food.

Steak with wasabi and Syrah.

I moved to Scottsdale, Arizona, nine months ago to be with my partner, and it has truly been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. After four years of long-distance, building a life together has been an incredible experience—especially as we continue to grow both personally and professionally.

I don’t think I ever had a fixed idea of who I was supposed to be. I was always taught to follow what feels right and pursue what truly makes me happy.

For Work, Italy. Leisure, definitely Thailand.

It might sound a little corny, but my favorite place is truly my home. It's my safe haven, a space that brings me peace and serenity. I travel so much for work that being home is my favorite spot to be.

I spent 48 hours in Japan and would love to return to explore more of the country.

After spending 20 years in the hospitality industry, 15 of those in operations, I’ve realized how many birthdays and special moments I’ve missed along the way. So now I make a conscious effort to be fully present for my loved ones. When I’m not working, I cherish the time I spend with family and friends. Though they’re scattered across the country, traveling to see them feels less like a chore and more like a meaningful journey—one that’s absolutely worth every mile.

Moving away from Los Angeles to pursue my corporate career.

I've always been a fearless person—when something interests me, I go for it. But being a Gemini, I’m full of curiosity and constantly drawn to new ideas. One day, I’m all in, and the next, my mind is off chasing something completely different.

I pretty much only listen to sad, heartbreak songs—so maybe that makes me a hopeless romantic... or just someone who really loves a good emotional spiral.

Such fun. Thank you so much.