Thanks to Geoff and Fred for inviting me to post on this forum. (I do love sommeliers--literally, I'm married to one).  And thanks for flattering me by the opportunity to engage a topic alongside Rod Smith, one of my very real inspirations in the world of writing. 

So California Syrah has been a hot topic for me lately, especially since--perhaps a little late in the game--I got wind of how seriously it’s tanked in the…

Becoming a Master Sommelier takes dedication, time, passion and patience. More than anything else it takes the support and love of friends, family and colleagues. Having just settled back in NYC after exams, the only thing I can think about is how lucky we are to have each other. This, my first post is dedicated to all of YOU that have helped me fulfill my dream. I hope if I am speaking about YOU without using your name, you…

I wish I could time travel with knowledge of the current economic environment and recently attained knowledge of South African wine.  I would return to 2004 with a solid business plan, assemble a pile of venture capital and form a importing company focused on South African (SA) wine.  I would also need a massive injection of entrepreneurial courage as I was born without that gene.

South African wine has struggled to achieve…