Born in Manila and raised in the dynamic world of food and beverage, Vanessa Aprille Bagatsing brings a global perspective and a deeply rooted passion for hospitality to everything she does. Her journey began in the back of house, where she developed a sharp understanding of operations before transitioning into wine—a move that ignited a lifelong love affair with the culture, complexity, and community of the beverage world.

Aprille’s career is distinguished by her ability to bridge operational excellence with sommelier expertise. She has led award-winning programs across the country, serving as both Sommelier and General Manager of the Warren Miller Dining Room, the largest restaurant at the exclusive Yellowstone Club in Big Sky Montana, and designing the wine list for The Pink Pony, the most iconic bar on Mackinac Island, Michigan. Her unique blend of skills led her to excel as F&B Operations Manager, overseeing entire hospitality teams while continuing to curate outstanding wine experiences.

Currently, Aprille serves as the Wine Curator for Bar Mar and Bazaar Meat Chicago, prestigious concepts under José Andrés and Gibsons Restaurant Group, where she pairs world-class wines with globally inspired cuisine. Her collaborations with Michelin-starred chefs and renowned winemakers from around the world continue to refine her craft and expand her palate.

Aprille’s approach to wine is rooted in storytelling, education, and inclusivity. Whether she’s building a cellar, mentoring staff, or guiding a guest through a perfect pairing, she brings warmth, precision, and deep industry insight to every interaction.