Do you have a favorite varietal or region?
I love Pinot Noir, and my allegiance is torn between Burgundy and small production California Pinots. Mainly I just love well-made wine, regardless of where it's from.

If you don't order wine at a restaurant or bar, which beverage do you choose?
Negronis are the standby, but I love tequila, and there are few things as delicious as a proper pint of Guinness.

What's your least favorite drink?
I am absolutely terrified of Midori.

What are your thoughts on recent trends within the industry?
I love that the pretension that has long been associated with our business has been winded down in many cases, and it's rapidly becoming more accessible. It's also cool to see the effects of the global wine and spirits markets in beverage programs throughout the city, with products like sake finding their way onto lists next to old favorites.

What is the first thing someone learning about wine should know?
It's just grape juice. Don't be intimidated.

What are some of your favorite food and wine pairings?
Pedro Ximenez over good vanilla ice cream, Junmai Daiginjo sake with panzanella salad and plenty of others. I'm still in search of the perfect pairing for PB&J it's sort of my holy grail.

Do you think any rules should be adhered to when pairing?
I like to keep the "what grows together goes together" mentality in the forefront and go from there. But not really rules, per say.

What are some of the benefits of drinking wine?
It's delicious, and it heightens the experience eating of good food. Plus the whole antioxidant thing is nice, but mainly it's delicious.

What wines should no home be without?
The ones they like to drink.

Do you have any favorite wine gadgets? Are there any new ones on the market?
If so, what are they and where can people get them? I keep it pretty simple, but for sheer ridiculous-ness, I have a soft spot for the "Flamingo" decanter from Riedel, which can be found online, even though it's the furthest thing from practical for the home wine drinker.

What are your three best tips, tricks or techniques for wine lovers?
Drink stuff you've never had before, drink it with good friends, and drink it often. Techniques and all that come after. It's important not to over-think wine, drinking and enjoying it are the most important things.

How many wines do you have in your own collection?
Not much. Unfortunately my studio apartment did not come with a proper cellar. I wrote a strongly worded letter to the landlord to no avail. So I keep a pretty minimal collection, some gifts, some toys, some everyday deliciousness.

What are your thoughts on sparkling wines?
I'm all about it. Who doesn't like bubbles?