I grew up in a large family by today’s standards and with both of my parents working, the only time all of us were together was at dinner and many times I was the chef. So my fondness for cooking and the association of good food, family and friends was developed early in life.

Fresh out of college with a degree in Business Management, I was hired by Hyatt Hotels and entered their Management Training program. Christmas that same year my brother gave me a book on wine and the passion began.

I spent several years with Hyatt and quite a few more with the Ritz-Carlton and wine always had a prominent place as I was in Food & Beverage Management. After many years went by I became more interested in wine and less interested in management.

I began working as a Wine Consultant approximately twelve years ago and looking back, this industry has grown so much since the mid-nineties and I have been fortunate enough to grow with it. In the wine business, the best way to educate oneself is to go the areas where the grapes are grown and the wine is made and learn & taste with the winemakers, the owners, and the employees of the wineries. As much as I love to read, the time I have spent in wine country in Europe and the United States has been the most beneficial for my career.

If asked what I love best about my job, my answer has to be in two parts. I am always learning, because every vintage is different and wine is living and evolving just like you and I. Secondly my customers many of whom have become my friends over the years, share with me their wine experiences and allow me to share mine and trust me to pick out the right bottle for dinner or that special occasion.

For me, it holds true, what you value in life as a child you will also value as an adult. Wine, food and friends….