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The Reluctant Somm: Wine & Hospitality PodcastAuthor: Christopher Truitt
Tired of the same polished surface? Welcome to The Reluctant Somm, your unconventional podcast navigating the back alleys of hospitality and the real stories behind every bottle of wine. Were not here to romanticize the grind. Host Christopher Truitt, an experienced sommelier with a crucial Front-of-House (FOH) perspective, pulls back the curtain on the messy, chaotic, and exhilarating world of the wine and hospitality industry from the demanding restaurant floor and the depths of the cellar to the unpredictable vineyards. This is your invitation to go beyond the perfectly plated dishes. Were diving deep into the real talk of hospitality: the long nights, the challenging customers, the spilled drinks, the unpredictable harvests, and that never-ending quest for the perfect vintage. Christopher shares candid conversations and untold stories from the sommeliers, chefs, winemakers, and other dedicated food and wine professionals who live it every day. Explore the true wine culture, understand the sommelier life, and get an uncensored look at the wine industry through engaging storytelling and Christophers fifteen years of experience in competitive markets like Houston, San Francisco and Los Angeles. Whether youre a wine novice curious about the real stories, an industry veteran nodding along, or someone aspiring to a career in wine or restaurants, The Reluctant Somm offers a unique blend of insider insights, wine knowledge shared through authentic experiences, and sheer entertainment. Join us as we explore what makes wine so damn good, the people behind the label, and the moments that make you question your sanity, only to remind you why you truly love this industry. If you crave authentic food and wine narratives and a genuine look at behind the scenes wine and restaurant life, youve found your podcast. Language: en Genres: Arts, Business, Careers, Food Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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The Sommelier Who Cultivates Curiosity: Danny Alday on Natural Wine, and Subverting Expectations
Episode 39
Wednesday, 10 December, 2025
In this insightful conversation, we sit down with Danny Alday, the Wine Director for Verjus (sister restaurant to Quince and Cotogna in San Francisco) and a partner in the collaborative pop-up Left on Madeline. Danny is a true leader and forward-thinker in the wine community. We dissect the philosophical concept of "curiosity over criticism," as Danny offers a masterclass in challenging established norms, particularly within the often-dogmatic world of natural wine. This episode will resonate with you if you are struggling with industry gatekeeping, the pressure to conform, or the need to redefine your own approach to hospitality. Danny discusses the necessity of having a distinct edge, how to subvert expectations in fine dining, and why a sommelier's true role is to facilitate connection—not just make a sale. "The true sommelier's job is not to sell wine, but to sell an experience, and that requires genuine, fearless curiosity." Connect with Danny Alday: Instagram: @Danny_j_alday Left on Madeline Instagram: @leftonmadeline If you find value in these discussions, please consider taking a moment to subscribe or follow the podcast. Your support helps us continue producing this content. Thank you.
