One of the questions I get asked most frequently is: “How did you end up in the wine business?”

Well, I went to college, earned a degree in theater, and began looking for a job in the performance industry. The closest I got was bartending at the Detroit Opera House. So, I made the most out of it, eventually becoming a Bar Manager. While working at the Opera House I started moonlighting at a small wine shop in Grosse Pointe called Merchant’s Fine Wine. My thought was, “until I find a job in the theater industry, why not learn about something interesting?” These jobs honed my service abilities and, at the same time, I was surrounded by some of the best in the wine business. At Merchant’s I climbed from Cashier to Store Manager in 3 years. By this time I was engrossed in wine, beer, and spirits. I spent my work days studying and tasting. My nights were spent with the catering team, bartending for a litany of special events, the highlight of which was the Ford Field Super Bowl.

Eventually, the Wine Manager’s position at Nino Salvaggio’s became available and, since it had become clear that theater was no longer my passion, I jumped at the opportunity. It was at Merchant’s that I first began reading about how to become a Sommelier, but it was at Nino’s that my desire to achieve the title – to truly be able to speak fluently with winemakers and experts – was nurtured and encouraged. In 2008 I took the Sommelier exam, and was certified by the Court of Master Sommeliers.

This blog gives you the ability to reach out and ask the questions you always wanted to ask. I honestly try to cultivate relationships with my customers and always try to get to the heart of what they’re looking for. Nothing brings me more joy than hearing “You never steer me wrong!” My posts here will be an extension of that.

I believe wine should be fun. After all, if you’re not enjoying it, why do it? So, in the coming months, I’ll be discussing new trends in the wine world, what I’ve tasted recently, what wine adventures are available to you, and the terrific values you will find at Nino’s.

Stick around, and let’s have some fun.