John’s early years were a whirlwind of relocations between Virginia and Southeast Asia, thanks to his parents’ careers in the US foreign service. Eventually, the family settled in Davis, CA, where John immersed himself in science fiction, heavy metal, Dungeons and Dragons, and British comedy (it was the 80s, after all).

After graduating from the University of California, Santa Barbara, John attended the California Culinary Academy. There, he discovered his passion for fine wine (especially old vine Zinfandel) and his future wife, Gina. He spent a decade cooking and cooking in the City and wine country before settling into the wine industry. John began as a Burgundy and Rhone specialist at North Berkeley Wine and later became the Consumer Sales Director at Eric Kent Wine Cellars in Sonoma, a role he held for 11 years.

John is passionate about authentic food and wine and finds his greatest joy at the table, sharing a great meal with friends and family. He lives in Sonoma with Gina and their three rescue sighthounds.

Feel free to call or email John to leverage his extensive experience. He’s your trusted guide and go-to resource for making the perfect selection.