The word ‘Zonda’ defines the strong, hot wind that rolls down the eastern slope of the Andes mountains and into the vineyards of Mendoza, Argentina. Often described as ‘dragon’s breath’, Zonda is born in the Pacific as a cool wind that begins to heat as it crosses the Andes and descends thousands of feet, gathering dust, force and hot temperatures. It is a legendary wind that reminds people of nature’s power and necessity.

My name is Shawn Zylberberg and I am the founder of Zonda Wine Services.

I was born and raised in South Florida, but have roots in Argentina where I first encountered Zonda on a quiet afternoon in the vineyards of Uco Valley. My wine journey began in New York City, where I was hired on a whim to become assistant sommelier at a Union Square wine bar and restaurant called, Wined Up. From blind tastings with restaurant staff to constant meetings with distributors, my palate for great wine began to improve.

Following my time at Wined Up, I was hired to join the world’s leading wine magazine, Wine Spectator, as a journalist. I consider this as the turning point in my career where I transitioned from world-class service to limitless knowledge and passion. Working with some of the greatest wine tasters in the world combined with interviewing hundreds of winemakers, artists, health experts and professional athletes gave me the keys to understand the industry at the highest level. During one of the magazine’s biggest annual events, the New York Wine Experience, I tasted a bottle that changed my life: Casanova di Neri Brunello di Montalcino Cerretalto 2013.

What has happened since?

I completed the Wine & Spirits Education Trust (WSET) Diploma program, one of the world’s most prestigious and rigorous wine education certifications, and joined Colangelo & Partners in 2022, where I represent some of the finest producers in the world and lead their U.S. marketing strategies. In 2024, I became president of Wine Club Miami, where I am elected to lead and curate wine dinners for our private group of collectors.

So, what is Zonda?

It is a culmination of vast and useful wine knowledge that helps people expand their horizons in wine. We offer several packages, from custom-designed tasting experiences to rare wine sourcing to supplier presentations that are guaranteed to make a lasting impact.