In this episode, George sits down with Damien Wilson, Hamel Family Faculty Chair of Wine Business at Sonoma State University. They discuss Damien’s blue-collar roots growing up in Darwin, Australia and how he started drinking “Chateau Cardboard” before being introduced to his first bottle of wine. His hospitality career journey, spanning barista to wine steward, inspired him to pursue four degrees, including a PhD, in wine business.
From Adelaide to Burgundy and Sonoma County, Damien’s story is one of resilience and adaptation, including learning French when he moved to France in 2006, humorously admitting he “spoke French like a Spanish cow.” Now a respected expert in the wine industry, he brings humor and authenticity to discussions about wine, culture, and industry trends.
Tune in to hear his fascinating insights and experiences!
