The Reluctant Somm: Wine & Hospitality Podcast

Join me in conversation with Matthew Oldenburg as we discuss his journey from collegiate beverage classes to a farmers market wine stall to a fated trip to the Mosel Valley and eventually to a wine school taught by THE David Glancy (and beyond). We also briefly touch on natural farming practices, the non drinking culture and how its effecting our industry and the struggle of living and working in...

Join me in conversation with Tyler Canning as we discuss how he got his start in the restaurant industry at the epic Lazy Bear, how coffee was the first beevareg that captured him (something I think most of us need to even function at this point), and how he is now ALSO in wine distribution. It's great to hear his thoughts and his process and I think it helps paint a great picture of thoughtfulnes...

Join me in conversation with Cory Nelund as we discuss his journey from restaurants and bars   to retail to sales and now representing one of the most historically important wineries in Napa Valley, Eisele Vineyard. We take some tangents through sake but circle back to his role with the Artemis Domaines We have known each other for several years now and he is such a class act, I can't wait for you...

Join me in a conversation with Stefano Biscotto as we discuss the ever complicated and evolving landscape that is Italian wine, the flow of business over the years in different markets, and the founding on The Estate Group back in the day at (the now RNDC) Young's. Stefano has been a great mentor to me in my time in wine sales in San Francisco and I'm so happy to share some of hi knowledge with yo...

Join me in a conversation with Arpad Molnar where we discuss his families history and their journey from Hungary, the decision to focus on their own barrel cooperage, and the incredible terroir of Lake County and more specifically the vineyard sites they're working with. It was a master class in oak and history and I can't wait for you to give it a listen! Subscribe to The Reluctant Somm and embar...

Join me in a conversation with Christopher Rivera as we talk through his journey from music to restaurants. We discuss what it's like to run so many restaurants, the classic pitfalls of the service industry, and the post pandemic state of the hospitality industry. I can't wait for you to listen to this incredibly authentic podcast! Subscribe to The Reluctant Somm and embark on a taste-filled voyag...

Join me in a conversation with Hernan Martinez as we discuss his journey from film to fine dine. We discuss his time at Holbrook House, Cotogna, EMP (Eleven Madison Park), and beyond. It's so incredible to see how everyone finds there way to wine and I can't wait for you to listen! Subscribe to The Reluctant Somm and embark on a taste-filled voyage through the realms of wine and hospitality! Enjoy...

Join me in a conversation with Luca Pasquero Elia as we discuss the history of the estate, his path, and the possible future of the wine industry. This is the second oldest winery in Piedmonte so they've seen it all! It was an incredibly insightful conversation and I can't wait for you all to listen! Subscribe to The Reluctant Somm and embark on a taste-filled voyage through the realms of wine and...

Join me in a conversation with Nori Nakamura, the owner and winemaker of Norma Wines based in Berkley California. He walks us through his journey from Japan to the U.S., his time in the Court of Master Sommeliers Japan, and his journey of winemaking. I've been a fan of his wines for quite some time and his thought behind his winemaking is truly unique. Listen to learn more! Subscribe to The Reluct...

Join me in a conversation with Massimo Alois as we discuss the incredible region of Campania, the fascinating indigenous varieties from there, and the challenges being faced by producers of "lesser known" regions. It's great to be able to discuss Campania more extensively with a pro like this, I'm so appreciative! Subscribe to The Reluctant Somm and embark on a taste-filled voyage through the real...

Join me in a conversation with Shelley Lindgren a restauranteur, author, and owner of Tansy Winery. We discuss her journey and passion for Southern Italian wines, her many ventures in the restaurant space, her third book, and her winery Tansley. There's so many more questions I have for her and I can't wait to have her back! Subscribe to The Reluctant Somm and embark on a taste-filled voyage throu...

Join me in a conversation with Morgan Harris as we discuss his journey becoming a Master Sommelier, the state of the service industry, and the actual costs of dining in a restaurant. I am so grateful for his time and this is an episode not to miss! Subscribe to The Reluctant Somm and embark on a taste-filled voyage through the realms of wine and hospitality! Enjoy our complete video podcast on You...

Join me in a conversation with David Kolvek as we discuss how he handles working on his Advanced Somm and WSET Diploma at the same time. We also discuss how he pairs with the New Nordic Cuisine at Sons & Daughters and his unique way of formatting his wine list! Subscribe to The Reluctant Somm and embark on a taste-filled voyage through the realms of wine and hospitality! Enjoy our complete vid...

Join me in a conversation with Matteo Atzori as we discuss his journey from Sardinia to San Francisco and all the stops in between. We touch on how amazing San Francisco wine and food industry is and was, the natural wine scene in Italy, and the wines of Southern Sardinia. We also discuss the path less taken and just how rewarding it can be.   Subscribe to The Reluctant Somm and embark on a taste-...

Join me in a conversation with Kayla Pope, Certified Sommelier and all around great person. We discuss her journey before and after we met at Ozumo, her journey through The Court of Master Sommeliers, and our favorite things about the service industry.   Subscribe to The Reluctant Somm and embark on a taste-filled voyage through the realms of wine and hospitality! Enjoy our complete video podcast...

Join me in a conversation with Tony Kim, a San Francisco based sales rep with a ton of service industry experience. We discuss the past and present of San Francisco, possible cures, and TCA in baby carrots (WHAT!?). I had a blast and I cant wait to do it again   Subscribe to The Reluctant Somm and embark on a taste-filled voyage through the realms of wine and hospitality! Enjoy our complete video...

Join me in a conversation with Chris Tarbell, the Wine Director for the Fiorella Restaurant Group here in San Francisco. Follow along as we discuss all the moving pieces of working in restaurants, wine exposure in a major city, and the evolution of the hospitality industry.   Subscribe to The Reluctant Somm and embark on a taste-filled voyage through the realms of wine and hospitality! Enjoy our c...

Join me in a conversation with Scott Shapley the winemaker of ROAR Winery in Santa Lucia Highlands. We discuss the region, its climate, and a bit of Scotts background. It's a blast and the wines are as stunning as ever, ya gotta try them!   Subscribe to The Reluctant Somm and embark on a taste-filled voyage through the realms of wine and hospitality! Enjoy our complete video podcast on YouTube. Al...

Join me in a conversation with Grant as we talk about the history of the winery and the journey that let he and Renee to it. A decorated past and a leap of faith, these wines continue to gain international steam and are quickly being recognized for their quality and integrity.   Subscribe to The Reluctant Somm and embark on a taste-filled voyage through the realms of wine and hospitality! Enjoy ou...

Join me in a conversation with Alex Hawes the Lead Somm of Alexander's Steakhouse San Francisco. We talk about his path, parings, and passion in wine. The restaurant industry is a crazy place but man does it make great connections!   Subscribe to The Reluctant Somm and embark on a taste-filled voyage through the realms of wine and hospitality! Enjoy our complete video podcast on YouTube. Also, be...

In this episode, we are delighted to sit down with John Skupny, the co-founder of Lange & Reed Winery, a name synonymous with excellence in the wine industry. Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of winemaking and discover the passion and precision behind every bottle of Lange & Reed.   Subscribe to The Reluctant Somm and embark on a taste-filled voyage through the realms of wine...

Join me in a conversation with my friend Vince as we talk about hospitality, his recent trip to New York, and some of his favorite places in the North Beach area.   Subscribe to The Reluctant Somm and embark on a taste-filled voyage through the realms of wine and hospitality! Enjoy our complete video podcast on YouTube. Also, be sure to visit our website for an exclusive Member's Experience, like...

Join me in a conversation with Will Henry and his full circle story of his journey through the wine industry. We also discuss natural wines with sulfite alternatives, he and his wife's restaurant Pico in Los Alamos, and his co-winemaker, the esteemed Lane Tanner. Also listen for a fun story about the great Randall Graham!   Subscribe to The Reluctant Somm and embark on a taste-filled voyage throug...

Join me in a conversation with Marissa Payne, a wine sales professional, about the past, present, and future of the San Francisco hospitality industry. Also pay special attention for some great restaurant recommendations!   Subscribe to The Reluctant Somm and embark on a taste-filled voyage through the realms of wine and hospitality! Enjoy our complete video podcast on YouTube. Also, be sure to vi...

Join me in a conversation with Genaro Gallo as we discuss his upbringing in the wine and hospitality industry in Spain, his path to the US, and his present and 8 Tables by George Chen, a tasting menu of Chinese cuisine and how he's pairing wine with the experience.   Subscribe to The Reluctant Somm and embark on a taste-filled voyage through the realms of wine and hospitality! Enjoy our complete v...