When did you first become interested in wine?
All my life. At our dinner table, my grandfather controlled the wine. Your wine was measured by your age. One finger for every year. That was the amount you would receive.

What brought you into the wine business?
My family. I can't remember not having wine at the dinner table.

Do you have a favorite varietal or region?
Italian

What is your least favorite drink?
Milk

What is your best drinking memory?
The launch of my new wine

In your opinion, which country, other than the US makes the best wine? Why?
The producers of Italian wine. It goes the best with all kinds of Food, which is why the Italians export the most wine to the US out of every country including France.

What are your thoughts on recent trends within the industry?
I want to have wine that is affordable for everyone. If you notice my personal message on every wine bottle ends with " I believe, you shouldn't have to be rich to drink a great wine."

What is the first thing someone learning about wine should know?
Aroma and color, then taste

What are some of your favorite food and wine pairings?
Cheese with Prosecco -- pasta with my red.

Do you think any rules should be adhered to when pairing?
I think what ever makes you happy.

What are some benefits of drinking wine?
It has been proven a few glasses of wine a day, is good for your health, if it has a low alcohol level.

What wines should no one be without?
Your favorite white or red — its up to your palate.

Do you have any favorite wine gadgets? Are there any new ones on the market?
Not in particular. I'm a very traditional guy. The thing to remember is white should be at a low 50 degrees and red should breathe for about 15 minutes so the flavor opens up. That's all you need to drink wine.

What are your three best tips, tricks or techniques for wine lovers?
Know what you like.
Taste different wine you love no matter what the price point. Some entry-level wines like mine are great. Cost should not be your guide.
Always share your wine with your friends and loved ones. I always have great fun introducing new wines to my friends.

What other ventures will you be doing engaging in the future and how do they pertain to wine?
I am introducing a new line of very affordable, pasta, pasta sauce, olive oil, vinegar and breadsticks to go with my wine collection. My website, www.giannirusso.com will announce the chain store that will carry these products. I also will come out with a white wine and another red in the spring. You can locate them on my website as well.