What do you love most about living in Chicago?
"Chicago is a true, global American city and there are so many things to love – our
groundbreaking architecture, the arts and culture programs, our
beautiful lakefront and parks, and the friendliness and charm of our
residents…but, if I had to select my favorite aspect about living in
Chicago, I would have to say the diversity of our dining scene.
Whether you’re craving Latin, Asian, Italian, Eastern European,
African, Indian...and everything in between, Chicago has
something for everyone."
What kind of an impact has Chicago had on your professional goals?
I moved to Chicago from Northern California in 2000 to take on the
wine program at Everest and the professionalism, skill, and talent
level of my fellow sommeliers and wine professionals in this city
immediately impressed me. They inspired me to strive to the next level
and to work harder — the bar had been raised."
We have to ask, what is your favorite place to enjoy a glass of
wine in Chicago?
"Anyone who lives in Chicago knows that you try to make the most of the
warmer months as our winters can be long and brutal. There’s nothing
like enjoying a refreshing glass of wine outdoors on a beautiful warm
night in our city. I try to take advantage of patio dining or will
bring a bottle (when allowed) to an outdoor concert or a picnic in the
park. Sometimes, I’ll just go to my rooftop and enjoy the best of an
endless summer night with a delicious rose or a slightly chilled
lighter red such as Pinot Noir."
What basic wine tip is essential to know before dining out?
"Restaurants are getting better about posting their wine selections
online and keeping the list updated. Just as you would peruse the
menu, I would suggest scoping out the wine list to see if anything
piques your interest. You can also take the opportunity to research
the winery or learn more about the grape variety. Narrow it down to a
few options; When you get to the restaurant select based on what
you’re enjoying for dinner or what you and your fellow diners are most
in the mood for."
What wine mistake should we all stop making, immediately?
"Stop saying you don’t know anything about wine. Whether it’s something that
is sweet, dry, light, smooth, spicy, big, or bold - you know what you
like and this is what matters most. Trust your palate, keep track of
wines that you’ve really enjoyed – a good tip is to keep a record in
your smartphone – and use them as examples to springboard newer
experiences."
If we want to impress a friend with a great hostess gift, what
bottle (or wine accessory) should we give her?
"I always say you can’t go wrong with a bottle of sparkling wine. For
the occasional imbiber to the seasoned aficionado, a bottle of bubbly
is always a welcome gift. Champagne is always nice, but for more budget
friendly options, consider Cava from Spain, Prosecco from Italy, or
sparkling wine from California or the Pacific Northwest."
If we want to drink good wine, without spending a ton of money,
what should we look for?
"To find a deal, point your compass south. Great values can be had with
lesser known grape varietals that are indigenous to certain areas,
especially southern regions. Examples include Carignan from Southern
France, Primitivo or Nero d’Avola from Southern Italy, or Monastrell
from Southern Spain. Southern hemisphere regions can also be chalk
full of bargains such as Bonarda from Argentina or Chenin Blanc from
South Africa. The road less travelled can yield some interesting
results."
Photo: Galdones Photography