Check Out Zahra Finley’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Zahra Finley

Hi Zahra, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My journey with wine began eight years ago with a winemaking course as a gift from my husband and a deep passion for creating memorable experiences around wine. Coupled with my background in business and marketing, this passion became the foundation for what is now Zesty Compass Collection.
When I set out to create Zesty Compass Wine Collection, I envisioned more than just a wine label—I wanted to craft an experience. My goal was to build a brand that not only delivers exceptional quality and flavor but also serves as a catalyst for connection and celebration. For me, Zesty Compass is more than a business; it’s a reflection of how I approach life—with passion, purpose, and a spirit of adventure. Every bottle tells a story, inviting people to savor the moment, forge meaningful connections, and live life to the fullest.
Starting with Zesty Compass Wine Collection, I set out to curate a lineup of wines, sparkling wines, and aromatherapy products designed to cater to a wide variety of tastes. Our sparkling wine collection, including the North Star Sparkling Brut, embodies the celebratory spirit we aim to share with every sip. Over time, the brand has grown from these core ideas into a collection that enhances any occasion, blending exceptional flavor with ambiance.
Today, Zesty Compass Wine Collection is more than just a wine brand—it’s a lifestyle brand that elevates celebrations, supports community events, and partners with charitable organizations to make an impact. It’s been an incredible journey filled with challenges, growth, and collaboration. From supporting causes like breast cancer awareness to creating tailored experiences and expanding our offerings, I’m grateful for how far the brand has come in three years.

With exciting new projects on the horizon, such as a revamped website, expanded distribution, more curated and tailored experiences, innovative dessert wines, and more collaborations, I’m dedicated to continuing this journey. Zesty Compass is about more than wine—it’s about creating a legacy of connection, joy, and living your zest life!

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Like most entrepreneurial journeys, the road to building Zesty Compass Wine Collection has had its fair share of bumps. One of the biggest challenges was transitioning from my corporate background to the wine industry. While my experience in business and marketing was invaluable, the world of wine came with its own learning curve. From mastering the technical aspects of winemaking to navigating licensing and compliance, there were plenty of moments that tested my determination.

Another significant challenge has been balancing creativity with business strategy. I’m passionate about curating unique wines and experiences, but scaling a brand also means managing logistics, pricing, and ensuring consistent quality. Early on, I had to overcome doubts about whether my vision would resonate with others—building confidence in my brand and finding the right audience took time and persistence.

As the business grows, managing multiple aspects of the brand—from product development and marketing to collaborations and events—became another hurdle. There have been moments of overwhelm, especially when faced with unexpected obstacles, like reworking my website after a developer left. But each challenge has taught me valuable lessons about adaptability, perseverance, and trusting the process.

We’ve overcome these obstacles by focusing on authentic storytelling, continuous community engagement, and staying adaptable. Building a genuine connection with our customers, through events, tastings, and collaborations, has really helped us stand out. For example, our sparkling wine collection has allowed us to participate in local celebrations and raise awareness around special causes and charities. Listening closely to feedback allows us to refine our products and better meet customer expectations. Persistence and innovation have also been key to overcoming hurdles along the way.

I’ve found immense reward in seeing my vision come to life. Every challenge has strengthened my resolve and deepened my passion for creating a brand that celebrates life with zest. I’m proud of how far Zesty Compass has come and am even more excited for the journey ahead. Challenges are part of the process, but they make the milestones all the more meaningful.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Zahra Finley
Owner and Founder, Zesty Compass Collection

Zahra Finley is a dynamic businesswoman and the founder of Zesty Compass Collection, a minority
woman-owned wine company based in Ohio. With over 20+ years’ experience in corporate operations
and compliance, Zahra leverages her extensive knowledge and experience to drive her
entrepreneurial journey. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business and marketing, as well as an
MBA from Cleveland State University.

Established in 2021, Zesty Compass Collection was born from Zahra’s passion for wine and wine
culture. The company curates a selection of nine signature wines, including a sparkling brut, each
reflecting the zeal and zest for life that defines the brand. Committed to creating unforgettable
experiences, Zesty Compass Collection has quickly gained recognition, shipping to over 40 states
and partnering with a major player in wine industry compliance for distribution.

Zahra’s leadership has positioned the collection as a prominent player in the wine industry. Zesty
Compass Collection proudly served as the official wine vendor for notable events, including Taste
of Black CLE 2024 and the annual gatherings of the Cleveland Building and Construction Trade
Council. The company also made its mark at the Uncorked Wine Festivals in Cleveland and
Columbus, attracting over 1,600 attendees.

In addition to her wine collection, Zahra recently launched the Aromas Collection, which features
curated candles and fragrances designed to enhance the wine-tasting experience. This unique
concept of pairing aromatherapy with fine wines invites customers to indulge their senses and
create blissful memories.

At Zesty Compass Collection, the mission is clear: every moment is an opportunity to create lasting
memories. Zahra invites everyone to embrace life’s zest with her beautifully bold wines and to join
in celebrating life’s finest moments.

Cheers to Living Your Zest Life!

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
It took me a while to truly open up and ask for help, which I do not recommend! Early on, I thought I had to figure everything out on my own. Looking back, I realize that mindset slowed me down. This year, I made a conscious decision to let my guard down and focus on collaboration and building relationships—not just in the wine industry, but with other entrepreneurs and small business owners. That shift has been a game-changer.

When it comes to finding a mentor or networking, my biggest piece of advice is to approach it with authenticity and an open mind. Mentorship and connections often come from unexpected places, so don’t limit yourself to just your specific field. Some of the most valuable insights I’ve gained have come from connecting with business owners in completely different industries. They bring fresh perspectives and creative solutions that you might not have considered.

Also, don’t underestimate the power of showing up. Attend events, join business groups, and reach out to people who inspire you. This year, I’ve leaned into collaborations, like partnering with community organizations and attending summits where I’ve met incredible people who’ve helped expand my vision. Being genuinely curious about others’ stories and willing to share your own makes a huge difference.

Finally, remember that networking isn’t just about what others can do for you—it’s about building mutual relationships. Offer your support, share resources, and celebrate others’ wins. That kind of energy not only attracts the right connections but also creates a network of people who genuinely want to see you succeed.

Opening up to collaboration and mentorship has made a profound impact on my journey, and I’m a firm believer that we grow further and faster together than we ever could alone.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.zestycompass.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zestycompasscollection/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zestycompass