Our Story
Wine lovers unite
As so many of the best things are, Uncorked Access is the result of passion, fate, collaboration, and timing. We did not write down "take wine classes" on our bucket list. It started with simply enjoying a delicious beverage and turned into so much more.
Both of us are curious by nature. Peter Cook traveled to numerous wineries around the world and often during these visits, communication was a big deal. Almost none of the workers and winemakers knew any sign language, which led to communication obstacles. Laura Unterstein worked as a professional sign language interpreter who became very passionate about wine. During her experiences traveling to wineries, attending tastings and classes, she couldn't help but wonder what these opportunities would be like for her Deaf friends.
She began to search for someone from the Deaf community who was equally as passionate, as she simultaneously began advocating for Deaf-friendly accessibility and inclusion in the wine industry.
Laura met Peter and they immediately connected over a love of wine. They quickly agreed that obstacles to access should be uncorked, and so Uncorked Access was born.
Peter S.Cook,
Co -Founders, WSET 3 Wine Educator/ Hospitality Access Advocate
Peter S. Cook is an internationally reputed Deaf storyteller and poet and has been traveling the world since 1984. He holds the Advanced WSET* level 3 certification, works as a wine educator, and teaches workshops about Wine and American Sign Language. He is also advocating for greater access in wine and hospitality for employers and consumers.
Peter is honored to be selected as the one of the cohorts of the 2022 Wine Enthusiast Future 40, which recognizes innovative professionals in the wine and hospitality industries.
Peter provides his expertise in visual information related to viticulture and vinification in the wine industry for greater, more equitable language access.
He also currently teaches ASL at Princeton University, where he encourages his students to become lifelong allies for the Deaf community.
Peter can be reached at aslpoet@gmail.com
Laura Understein
Co -Founders, WSET 3 Wine Educator/ Hospitality Access Advocate
Laura is a nationally certified American Sign Language interpreter who spent fourteen years in the hospitality industry, working in restaurants and bars in multiple cities.
Laura was recognized in 2021 as a Wine Enthusiast 40 Under 40 Tastemaker. She hopes to be a vehicle of change and to use her privilege and platform for the betterment of others. Her dream is to see Deaf wine professionals in the industry who will lead the next generation of curious consumers without barriers. Wine is an equalizer, and she believes we can all sit at the same table to experience it together.
In October 2024, Laura stepped away from her role with Uncorked Access to accept a career with Moët Hennessy USA and focus on her family. She continues her advocacy work within the organization and we celebrate her personal and professional successes!
Laura can be reached at winelanguageinterpreter@gmail.com
