I live in the greater San Diego area, where I grew up. I have just moved back after living 16 years in Rome, Italy. That is where I decided to pursue my passion for wine, history, and the wonderful culinary connections that exist between the two. As a tour guide I was impassioned to go the extra mile. With many of my clients insisting on wine itineraries, I decided to combine both worlds. So I studied wine at the Associazione Italiana Sommelier (AIS), earning my Sommelier Certification in 2011. I later earned my Master Sommelier Certification in 2012. I assisted in the translation of the 2012 edition of DUEMILAVINI, which is AIS’ wine guide for professionals. This was the only time the Associazione released an English version. In 2016, I earned my Sous Chef Certification from the Accademia Nazionale Professioni Alberghiere. In 2012, I created ViniCultural Tours where I focused on the wine, craft beer, and food of Italy and how they connect to the local culture and history. All my passions came together! I launched the first Craft Beer Tour in Rome, which remains the longest running tour of its kind in Rome! Passing the reigns was a tough decision to make. It makes me feel better to be back in San Diego as the local wine-making is really taking off! I will be launching Hop’n Vine Tours to take visitors to the wineries and breweries. Where? The San Diego area and Valle de Guadalupe in Mexico!