About

My name is Ally Priestley, and I am deeply passionate about wine, the food it pairs with, and the cultural practises behind them. I created Guided Pairings to share this passion and my love for the beautiful city of Nice. I arrived here in 2015 with the intention of spending a few months abroad to continue my studies in wine. Well a few months turned into few years and I am happy to call this beautiful city home!

I began my career with wine working in various restaurants and drinking establishments; from the cozy restaurants and bars of Canada, to the bustling pubs and fine dining establishments in Ireland, to working as a stewardess on super yachts along the French Riviera. Being surrounded by food and wine in changing environments has been a life changing and passion building experiences.

I made my transition into the sector of tourism in 2017 allowing me to share my love for Nice by running wine tastings and food and wine tours, which has been a dream. Working and living in Nice has deepened my love for the sense of community, the markets, family businesses all tying together to make up Nice’s rich history. I rely heavily on the incredible local vendors for pairings and inspiration for all the amazing wine of Provence.

The more I learn, the deeper my passion grows. It’s one thing to know what you’re tasting, it’s another kind of fulfilment to know why. And thats what I want to share with you!

There is an appreciation that is enforced with understanding. I love knowing my clients have walked away with a better understanding of wine, a deeper appreciation for the Niçoise cuisine both traditional and modern, and most importantly take a memory with them to last a life time.

Every bottle of wine has a story to tell, and I am an enthusiastic story teller when wine and food are involved!