When did you first become interested in wine?
I first became interested in wine when I was about 18. My good friend Eric was working at a country club and was getting to taste really great wine with the bartender. I hung with them one night and was drinking some Beringer Reserve Cabernet and since then I have been hooked. It was a great experience and really set me on an amazing path.

What brought you into the wine business?
I was waiting tables at Wente Vineyards in Livermore and realized that the sommelier has the best job in the house; great food and great wine, what else is there?

Do you have a favorite varietal or region?
My favorite varietal is Pinot Noir from anywhere, but I must confess that Burgundy is my all time favorite.

If you don't order wine at a restaurant or bar, which beverage do you choose?
I love Beer and also have an affinity for single batch Bourbon.

What's your least favorite drink?
Tomato Juice--it a texture thing.

What's your best wine-drinking memory? What was the occasion?
Drinking a bottle of 90 Salon in my empty apartment in San Francisco with my then girlfriend. We were celebrating life and some times you just need bubbles, a couple of glasses, and the beautiful woman does not hurt.

In your opinion, which country, other than the U.S., makes the best wine? Why?
France-the breath of wines is staggering and each region really expresses the terrior, plus, Burgundy is there.

What are your thoughts on recent trends within the industry?
The prices need to come down, but that looks like that is happening. Also, I think that it great that people are viewing wine as more than just a beverage, but as food. Then there is the biodynamic movement which is amazing by the sheer fact that it is environmentally friendly.

What is the first thing someone learning about wine should know?
That it is okay to drink it in a coffee cup.

What are some of your favorite food and wine pairings?
White Burgundy and lobster risotto, oysters and Champagne, venison and Hermitage. Pinot Noir and a glass; wine is food, not just a beverage.

Do you think any rules should be adhered to when pairing?
No, I think people should try several different wines with various foods, and then find out what works for them. There is nothing wrong with beer and Cheerios.

What are some of the benefits of drinking wine?
You don't have to drive; it creates conversation, and brings people together; it makes food taste better, and it makes people aware of the beautiful side of life.

What wines should no home be without?
Champagne and Burgundy

Do you have any favorite wine gadgets?
Just a double hinged wine opener

What are your three best tips, tricks or techniques for wine lovers?
A lot of whites do better with decanting, drink Riesling anywhere. You can saber a bottle of Champagne with a coffee spoon.