USA

Sammy Lam

Sammy grew up in a low-income, Mexican-American household, and had to strive against the disadvantages that these circumstances placed in his way. Determined not to be stopped by these barriers, but rather motivated to overcome and transcend them, Sammy sees his “heritage as a foundation of strength rather than a limitation”. He is a successful entrepreneur, having founded Wanderlust Wine Co., the world’s largest on tap winery with three locations spread around Austin, Texas. Passionate about Texas’ growing wine industry and its international position within the sector, Sammy is a Board Member of the Texas Wine and Grape Growers Association, as well as a key organiser of the OIV MSc (of which he is a graduate) Texas Module, and he seeks to use his position to “bridge the gap between established wine practices and innovative approaches” to ensure that his home state may claim its rightful place as a globally recognised and dynamic producer of quality wines. In addition to these roles, he is a constant advocate for the inclusion of diverse communities, engaging with organisations including the Austin Young, Greater Austin Hispanic and LGBTQ+ Chambers of Commerce, to show that the wine industry is a place where all are welcome.