Meet The Founder
Carmela Blackman graduated from Cornell University with a degree in Business & Marketing. After spending several years working on strategy and product development for luxury brands, she decided to pursue her true passion, wine. Her first exposure to fine wine came from her 6 years of experience at one of the world’s leading wine auction houses. There she worked on direct to client retail sales, cultivating relationships with top wine buyers from hotels and restaurants as well as private collectors and connoisseurs.
After becoming the go-to "wine consultant" for many of her friends, Carmela decided she wanted to help others who shared her love for wine. Thus, CB Cellars was born - wine acquisition for the non-wine expert.
As Founder and President, Carmela is responsible for driving the business and overseeing operational logistics. She is also a customer service specialist. Her belief that all client experiences should be unique and special has added to the high level of service provided by CB Cellars.
What People Are Saying
“What a gift! As a novice, I had the good fortune of meeting Carmela at a wine auction. She was my “concierge” for the day as part of a package I had won in an earlier charity event. She explained the process and the wines in a thorough, easy manner. So much so that I decided to hire her. Carmela has been informative, accessible and extremely easy to work with. Whether I’m purchasing newer wines from smaller “boutique” vineyards or more sought after older wines, Carmela’s love for wine and breadth of knowledge made my own wine experience more enjoyable. Working with her to develop a taste for international wines especially during Covid has helped me keep my sanity! Looking forward to my next case!” — Michael F.
“Wine acquisition for the non-wine expert" is exactly what Carmela excels at. She was instrumental in helping me build my confidence in auctions and explore genres that are "off the hyped up" path. Finding your palette takes time and an open mind, and you can trust Carmela to help you find yours!” - MT
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