Picture a storyteller who uncorks a bottle of suspense with every page—meet Nadine Nettmann! A certified sommelier and acclaimed mystery author, Nettmann blends her love for wine with gripping tales in her Sommelier Mystery series. From Napa Valley vineyards to Prohibition-era Los Angeles, her stories intoxicate readers with clever plots and a splash of oenophile charm.
Born and raised in Los Angeles, Nettmann’s unique journey from wine enthusiast to celebrated author has fermented a fanbase eager for her next vintage of intrigue. Her novels, paired with her expertise, offer a delightful escape for mystery lovers and wine aficionados alike.
The Making of Nadine Nettmann
Nadine Nettmann’s passion for storytelling began early, sparked by childhood favorites like Enid Blyton’s Famous Five mysteries. Growing up in Los Angeles, she dreamed of writing while honing her pencil. Her fascination with wine ignited in 2010 at a Hawaiian wine and food festival, where Master Sommelier Fred Dame unexpectedly invited her to join a tasting panel. This pivotal moment uncorked a desire to master wine, leading her to earn her Certified Sommelier credential from the Court of Master Sommeliers in 2011 after studying with 2,000 flashcards and a dedicated tasting group.
Parallel to her wine journey, Nettmann pursued writing with tenacity. After a decade of effort, five manuscripts, and 421 agent queries, she secured a publishing deal for her debut novel. Her dual expertise in wine and storytelling became the perfect blend for her literary career, setting the stage for her distinctive mysteries.
Nadine Nettmann’s Unforgettable Stories
Nettmann’s Sommelier Mystery series, starring the sharp-witted Katie Stillwell, is a toast to her wine expertise. Each chapter is paired with a wine, reflecting the narrative’s mood, from sparkling aperitifs to brooding reds. Her debut, Decanting a Murder (2016), follows Katie as she uses her deductive tasting skills to solve a Napa Valley winery killing, earning nominations for the Agatha, Anthony, and Lefty Awards. Uncorking a Lie (2017) dives into the world of counterfeit wines at a Sonoma mansion, blending danger with wine lore, while Pairing a Deception (2018) uncorks a murder at a Santa Barbara wine festival, showcasing Nettmann’s knack for vivid settings.
Her latest novel, The Bootlegger’s Daughter (2024), shifts to Prohibition-era Los Angeles, weaving history, feminist themes, and suspense. Praised for its evocative prose and gasp-worthy twists, it introduces fresh characters Letty and Forman, navigating a world of danger and intrigue. Nettmann’s style—lively, well-plotted, and infused with wine culture—creates a sensory experience, making readers feel the sunlit vineyards and taste the citrus notes of a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc.
Her writing draws inspiration from authors like Sue Grafton and Daphne DuMaurier, blending cozy mystery charm with thrilling stakes. By setting her stories in wine regions worldwide, from Chile to Germany, Nettmann invites readers to savor both the plot and the terroir.
Why Nadine Nettmann Matters
Nadine Nettmann has carved a unique niche in the mystery genre, proving that a sommelier’s deductive skills can rival Sherlock Holmes’. Her Sommelier Mystery series has garnered critical acclaim, including a 2018 Independent Publisher Book Silver Medal, and resonates with readers who crave intelligent, immersive stories. Beyond entertainment, her work educates, offering a glimpse into the artistry of wine and the grit of pursuing one’s passions.
As Editorial Director of SOMM TV, Nettmann shapes wine storytelling in media, amplifying her impact. Her global vineyard explorations and feminist narratives, like those in The Bootlegger’s Daughter, inspire readers to appreciate history, resilience, and a good glass of Riesling, cementing her as a trailblazer in cozy mysteries.
- Born: Los Angeles, California
- Key Works: Decanting a Murder, Uncorking a Lie, Pairing a Deception, The Bootlegger’s Daughter
- Awards: 2018 Independent Publisher Book Silver Medal, multiple award nominations
- Fun Fact: Nettmann pairs fish tacos with New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc for dinner!
Snag Decanting a Murder and dive into Nadine Nettmann’s intoxicating blend of mystery and wine!