Interview With The Founder Of Sipwell Wine Co – Hilary Cocalis

In this exclusive interview on Glass of Bubbly we speak with Hilary Cocalis, the Founder of Sipwell Wine Co, producing premium Sparkling California Canned Wines, let’s discover a little about her lives in the wonderful world of wine.

It’s Great To Speak With You, Hilary, Can You Tell Us A Little About Yourself, Your Journey In The Wine Industry & How You Founded Sipwell Wine Co?

“My journey in wine started over a decade ago with my first job in the alcohol industry, where I worked on building and growing a founder-led craft beer brand, Ballast Point Brewing Co. As I learned more about brewing, I started developing an interest in wine and winemaking as well. Ballast Point was also acquired by Constellation Brands in 2015, and I learned a lot from the people and brands on the wine side of Constellation’s business. Along the way, I noticed opportunities for innovation—like offering high-quality wine in more accessible formats, championing inclusivity, and embracing sustainability.

I’ve always loved wine but didn’t love the waste or commitment of opening a full bottle – especially as a mom of young kids, I usually don’t drink that much in one sitting. I wanted to create a solution that made wine more approachable and flexible for my lifestyle, while still offering a premium experience. Sipwell Wine Co. is the result of that vision: premium, organic wine in sustainable cans that are perfect for any occasion or adventure.”

Do You Remember Your First Experience With Sparkling Wine? When It Was And What Kind Of Label It Was?

“I can tell you my first experience with canned sparkling wine! I was at a friend’s birthday party in college (almost 20 years ago now), and she was serving the Sofia cans by Coppola. They are small cans of bubbly that come with a straw. I thought it was so unique! Perhaps that experience stuck with me enough to want to make canned wine of my own!”

Canned Sparkling Wines Are Growing In Popularity And Quality Across The World. To Note, The Glass of Bubbly Awards 2024 Awarded Its First Gold Medal To A Canned Sparkling Wine, Being Judged Blind Alongside Champagnes & Other Traditional Method Bubbly. How Do You Personally See The Future Of Canned Sparkling Wine In The US & Global Markets?

“Canned sparkling wine is definitely at a tipping point. The stigma around alternative packaging is fading (with cans and boxed wine), and consumers are realizing that great quality can come in a can. Modern wine drinkers also want convenience and sustainability, which cans are perfect for. And innovation in the category—like our unique fermentation process for a Champagne-style sparkling wine—is proving the format can deliver premium experiences.

Globally, I see canned sparkling wine becoming a staple, especially as younger drinkers enter the wine category – not just for casual moments but also for occasions where people want high-quality bubbly without the formality of a traditional bottle.”

Sustainability Is Becoming A More Important Word In The Wine World, With Canned Sparkling Wines Being A More Sustainable Approach To Bringing Sparkling Wine To The End Consumer. Can You Share With Us Some Of The Practices That Sipwell Wine Co Incorporates In Terms Of Sustainability?

“Sustainability is core to everything we do at Sipwell. We source organic grapes from growers who prioritize organic and sustainable farming practices. Our cans are fully recyclable and have a much lower carbon footprint than glass bottles.

Additionally, we’re committed to reducing waste throughout our production process and supporting environmental initiatives that give back to the planet. Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword for us—it’s a responsibility we take seriously as we grow.”

Can You Share With Us Some Of The Countries And Locations Around The World Where We Can Enjoy A Can Of Sipwell Wines?

“Currently, Sipwell is available for direct-to-consumer shipping across the United States, and we are available at retail in California, including Safeway stores in Northern California. While we’re primarily focused on growing in our home California market, we’re exploring opportunities to expand to retail in other US markets, and who knows – maybe internationally! To find a store in California or shop for our wines for direct shipping, visit our website www.sipwellwine.com.”

As You Continue To Expand, What Future Plans Can Enthusiasts Of Sipwell Wine Co. Look Forward To In The Coming Years?

“We’re constantly innovating! We’re thinking about offering new wines, including limited-edition releases and collaborations. We’re also expanding our retail distribution to make Sipwell even more accessible.

On the sustainability front, we’re looking into new technologies to further reduce our carbon footprint. And of course, continuing to build a brand that represents diversity and inclusion remains a top priority.”

Thank you, Hilary, for sharing your story and experiences with us and we at Glass of Bubbly wish you the very best for the future!

Photo Credit Courtesy of Sipwell Wine Co, Glass of Bubbly was granted permission to use the image.