Holly Leighton

LEAD SOMMELIER

Holly has worked in the restaurant industry since she was 15, starting as a server at a local country club in her home state of Maine. Over the years she took on opportunities at a Greek family eatery, a Mexican Tequeria, a local brew pub, and a New York-style steakhouse. It wasn’t until she worked for Legal Sea Foods in Boston that she began to develop an interest in wine – and that interest quickly became a driving force in her trajectory. In 2016, wanting to be closer to the heart of the wine industry, she drove with her two cats across the country to Sacramento.  

She began her career at Allora as a server in 2018, helping to open the restaurant. Holly has adapted in her role and is currently the Lead Sommelier and Dining Room Manager under Elizabeth-Rose. She loves engaging with our guests and having the opportunity to act as a tour guide through the wine list to find lesser-known varietals or regions to accompany guests meals and experiences.

With a degree in creative writing, Holly hopes to someday combine her passions for travel, wine and writing. She and her partner welcomed their first child in March of 2022.

 

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