|
It all began in 1977 when I rented a room from a French family and accidentally insulted their sensibilities with my ignorant
gift of a poor wine. Jeanette Pelet was the home owner and she politely invited me to "Corkey's" a bistro in the
University village, for the purpose of introducing me to fine wine. She ordered a Beaujolais from B.V., and when it arrived
at the table she flew into a rage. She started spitting (literally) and in her small French voice but strained she exclaimed
"You Americans, you take our wine, you put your name on it, for what, to MAKE MONEY!!! I HATE America, Ptew, Ptew..."
I was both mortified and fascinated, how could a beverage incite such passion? She calmed down, apologized to Corkey and I,
and accepted the wine. After sampling the wine she explained that this was made in the tradition of the region of Beaujolais
in the south of Burgundy, and it was a light elegant red. If I found it to be too strong, I could try whites, if I wanted
something heartier, I could explore Bordeaux for a start. Over the next four months, she trained me in the grapes and regions
of Bordeaux, and about purchasing futures and cellaring. I was on my way.
My career took a turn for the worst in 1994 after NAFTA was signed, and the American textile manufacturing industry was
dismantled. I tried several things but my wife encouraged me to follow my passion for fine wine, and we opened a wine shop.
I studied diligently and earned my certificate from the Court of Master Sommeliers in 1999. I then went to work for a wine
importer in New York city. It was the time of my life! I hosted tastings for Cystic Fibrosis and many other events. I brought
Mario Andretti to the Capital district to host an introduction to his new winemaker Robert Pepi, I met regularly with the
Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park to discuss their wine selections and to demonstrate wines for them. I met Pete
Posert a very influential wine professional with an amazing background. I began teaching fine wine appreciation for the Knowlege
Network which I still do today. I had the privilege to work with Chris Daniele, Ted Lemon, Trevor Mast, Kathleen Heitz, Bruce
Neyers, and impressive wine professionals too numerous to mention.
UPDATE: I am building web pages for the Wine and Restaurant Industry. Please check out:
Wine Trade Trust
Although I did not build this one, I am a major contributor, and I maintain it.
Central Restaurant Equipment
This one I built in cooperation with Website Pro's, one of my very favorite hosts for a number of great reasons.
|
