When did you first become interested in wine?
In college. I remember a great 1978 Mondavi Oakville Cabernet! I split a case with a friend... my first big wine purchase!

What brought you into the wine business?
Living in Napa, I took numerous courses in Viticulture and Enology at Napa Valley College. I was working in the Insurance business and made a decision that if I were to change careers, I would move into the wine business. I was offered a buy out from my employer and in less than a week, I was working at Beaulieu Vineyard.

Do you have a favorite varietal or region?
Napa Valley. I grow Syrah in my small backyard vineyard and enjoy the unique character that it has.

If you don't order wine at a restaurant or bar, which beverage do you choose?
Water

What's your least favorite drink?
Tequila

What's your best wine-drinking memory? What was the occasion?
On a beach in Maui with my wife and a bottle of 1997 Georges de Latour.

In your opinion, which country, other than the U.S., makes the best wine? Why?
I love Tuscan blends – big, bold, yet fruit-forward.

What is the first thing someone learning about wine should know?
You will know what you like and don't like. Don't let anyone tell you what you should like!

What are some of your favorite food and wine pairings?
BBQ with a bottle of 2008 Burke's Blazing BBQ Zinfandel! Produced by Judd's Hill. Old Vines from Lodi.

Do you think any rules should be adhered to when pairing?
No. Drink what you like with anything!

What are some of the benefits of drinking wine?
Value, if you have time to search.

What wines should no home be without?
Sauvignon Blanc for white. Cabernet for red.