Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/41419
Christopher Sawyer: The Multi-Talent As if having one of the most refined palates in wine country weren't enough of an accomplish- ment, Chris is also an internationally respected wine journalist and public speaker, not to mention frequent stints as a wine list consultant and judge. This is a somm who thinks outside the box, spearheading innovative programs such as film/wine pairings at the Sonoma Valley Film Festival. As the sommelier at The Lodge at Sonoma, Chris enjoys sharing his long-held passion for wine with his guests and is keen to represent California in the glass and on the table. "I am the biggest fan of California wines!" he says. "And the best part about being a sommelier in Sonoma County is that it gives me license for a lot of great imagination and creativity." Reggie Narito, MS, is Director of Training for Southern Wine & Spirits. Reggie Narito: The Educator As Director of Training for Southern Wine & Spirits, Reggie Narito has the distinction of being a Master Sommelier, but in his case, the initials MS could just as easily stand for "mover and shaker." In this seminal role, Narito not only trains Southern Wine & Spirits' sales force and supplier partners, he keeps a sharp eye on the market for trend-setting producers and brands. "Moving our business forward is my top prior- Christopher Sawyer is the sommelier at The Lodge at Sonoma. But it's not all about stoking Chris' creative fires: The gift of the experience of wine and food, all enjoyed in wine country is paramount. "Putting a great bottle of wine on the table and having people want to hug me on the way out is just the greatest thing," he says. ity," said Narito, who spends a significant amount of time in the field conducting service seminars, specialized tastings and sommelier dinners. Acting as an internal consultant, he assists new and existing accounts with tailoring their bever- age programs and helps them tap trends that will in turn drive sales. "Anticipating the market requires staying one step ahead of consumer demand and having programs in place that capitalize on trends," states Narito, who notes the growing awareness around sustainability and a marked shift towards lower alcohol wines that communicate a sense of place. In addition to serving on the Board of Directors for the Guild of Sommeliers, which has chapters in both the U.S. and New Zealand, Narito plays a vital role in the industry as a role model and men- tor to students in the Court of Master Sommeliers certification program. september 201 1 / the tasting panel / 89