About Michelle
Michelle Erland is a bi-coastal wine and food publicist serving as West Coast Director at Colangelo & Partners, a leading wine and food communications agency. She is a Certified Sommelier through the Court of Master Sommeliers and an Italian Wine Ambassador certified by the Vinitaly International Academy. Erland manages national PR campaigns for clients including Joseph Phelps Vineyards, Champagne Louis Roederer, Paul Hobbs Wines, FUTO Estates, Charles Krug, and the Washington State Wine Commission.
I lead national campaigns across both coasts, working with an impressive roster of wine and food brands. My expertise spans media relations, corporate and crisis communications, and strategic storytelling that connects brands with their audiences in meaningful ways.
Whether it's securing coverage in The New York Times, managing a brand through a communications challenge, or developing a long-term media strategy, I approach every project with the same goal: telling stories that resonate and bring people closer to the table.
Certifications & Awards
- Certified SommelierCourt of Master Sommeliers
- Italian Wine AmbassadorVinitaly International Academy
- Associate Judge, 5 Star WinesVinitaly, Verona
- 40 Under 40 HonoreeBeverage Information Group
Education
- MBAJohnson & Wales University
- Corporate Communications CertificateCornell University
- Intensive Sommelier TrainingFrench Culinary Institute
- Food Styling for MediaFrench Culinary Institute
Writing & Education
Beyond public relations, I contribute to Intentional Living Magazine, writing about food, wine, and the art of gathering. My articles explore everything from the nuances of Washington State reds to why rosé deserves a place at the table year-round.
I also teach wine education courses for corporate clients and trade professionals — helping people develop their palates and deepen their understanding of wine regions, grape varieties, and food pairing principles.
“The best stories are the ones that bring people together. Whether it's a glass of wine, a beautifully styled dish, or a strategic PR campaign, my goal is always the same — to help people connect, communicate, and gather around the table.”