I grew up in Wisconsin where my family has been in the restaurant business for three generations.  After graduating with a Bachelor's degree in Hospitality, I took on a part time sales job working for a distributor in Madison while studying for an MBA.  When I had my first opportunity to visit Napa and Sonoma, the MBA was quickly abandoned for full time wine sales.  After moving to Boulder, Colorado I worked as a sommelier at The Flagstaff House, overseeing one of the best wine lists in the US.  That was where I was inspired to study the Court of Master Sommelier's program.  In 1997, I moved to Napa to be "closer to the source".  I've worked as Wine Director at Tra Vigne, Meadowood Resort and City Winery Napa.  I've also been an Account Manager for Young's Market Estates Group and for Jackson Family Wines.  Currently, I am a Brand Ambassador for Brion Wines on the Sleeping Lady Vineyard in Napa.