From throwing pizza in Atlanta, to mongering cheese in St. Louis, to grilling lamb in Colorado, James has been on a culinary journey across the country, where he now finds himself immersed in the Willamette Valley wine region. After experiencing the way fine wine can elevate cuisine through thoughtful pairings, all it took for him to trade the kitchen for the vines was a taste of Grand Cru Burgundy.

After hanging up the chef coat, James began rigorously studying beverage and hospitality. James is a certified sommelier with the Court of Master Sommeliers and is currently studying for the CMS Advanced Exam and preparing to begin the WSET Diploma. His goal is to be one of the few wine professionals to hold both Master Sommelier and Master of Wine credentials. He is beyond grateful to work in and champion what he believes to be the most exciting wine region in the country. When away from the tasting room, you will find him tasting around the valley, in a local wine shop, or studying at home with his big dogs, Sherman and Quinn.