From a mom & pop grocery store to the corporate wine world
A wine journey begins with a long look into the future and building a system that gets you where you want to be. At 21, I was ready. Then, when I reached my mid-thirties, I knew I could not remain in my family business, but I stayed patient. Finally, a decade later, I made substantive changes that catapulted me into a new space; I joined the corporate wine world.
My wine journey began as a teenager when I responded to aromas in the air and flavors on my palate. My mom was an incredible, self-trained cook, followed by one of my younger brothers, who became a highly respected chef. From those beginnings, I started pursuing wines with intention and purpose. As a 21-year-old wine buyer, I let my senses guide me. While I had to do a business out of it, and with my parents' guidance on running our family grocery store, I went full force into creating the best wine selection I could.
Our early selections included Blue Nun, Lancers, Gallo, Italian Swiss Colony, Beaulieu Vineyard, and the usual suspects in any corner store in the early 1970s. At first, I was content with letting it ride, but peering into the future, I knew the wine business was changing and was not returning to business as usual. New artisan California wineries had entered the space and would soon push classic old-school producers. The 1973 California vintage changed the wine scene forever. Many new upstart wineries have become legends with half a century of history.
I was young, active, and enthusiastic. Hand-picking wines, first from California, then from all over the world. Those near me thought I was a bit crazed. But confidentially buying and selling unknown wines was exhilarating. Please follow me as I reveal moments in my career that proved pivotal. I hope the stories will inspire you.
