I have been working in restaurants since I was thirteen. I was a cook for many years and attended The Culinary Institute of America. This is where my passion for wine began as I tasted wines from all over the world for the first time. After school I cooked and learned about service working my way through all positions in several restaurants across the country. My most recent position was Wine Director of Crush restaurant here in Seattle. I have certifications from the two major governing bodies of professional sommeliers and now have 10 years of experience in wine. Recently my business partner and fellow sommelier James Lechner and I formed a wine consulting company called Elevage. Our focus is to bring wine to the common table and make it a part of daily life. Wine and food are some of the greatest joys that we experience. We have a wine dinner and tasting class series monthly. We consult restaurants and individuals regarding all things wine, spirits and beer. Above all else we like to have fun!