Latest news with #AlphaOmega
Yahoo
13-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Alpha Omega Welcomes Eric Laychock as New Chief Operating Officer
Former KPMG Managing Director will lead Alpha Omega's strategic operations as it doubles in size VIENNA, Va., May 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Alpha Omega, a leading provider of AI-driven modernization and digital transformation solutions to the federal government, announced today that Eric Laychock will join the company as Chief Operating Officer. With over 15 years of federal experience, Laychock is well known for introducing new technologies and capabilities and scaling them across teams and organizations. In his almost 13 years at KPMG, most recently as a Managing Director, he played a crucial role in helping grow its overall federal business to $500+ million and held key positions including leadership within the Federal Healthcare practice and oversight of the Federal Workday portfolio. Laychock's arrival comes at a strategically significant time, coinciding with Alpha Omega's January 2025 acquisitions of Macro Solutions LLC and SeKON LLC. In his new role, Laychock will manage profit and loss (P&L) across all Business Units and Customer Success functions, aligning teams for stronger integration, elevated service delivery, people-centric focus, and sustained growth and scalability. Laychock brings a wealth of experience in managing P&L across complex portfolios, consistently driving sustainable growth and operational efficiency. His strategic oversight and financial discipline have enabled the ability to scale, while maintaining fiscal responsibility. At Alpha Omega, Laychock will be instrumental in ensuring that business units align with enterprise goals, delivering measurable outcomes, and optimizing performance across contracts and programs. His leadership reflects a deep understanding of both top-line expansion and bottom-line accountability—core to Alpha Omega's mission of building a resilient, high-growth enterprise. "Eric is a change leader who doesn't wait to see how markets evolve; he takes an active role in making them work to the customers' advantage," said Gautam Ijoor, CEO and founder of Alpha Omega. "Alpha Omega's mission is to ensure our nation's continued global leadership; delivering precise and innovative AI-driven solutions to streamline processes, enhance efficiency, and reduce risk for our federal customers. In addition to overseeing all company operations, Eric will apply his experience and acumen to further refine operations supporting our strategic expansion, as well as providing oversight of the DELTA AI code modernization Business Unit and the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Business Unit. I look forward to Eric's contributions to our growth and mission-success of our customers. His stewardship will strengthen our foundation as we scale with intention, investing in the future, while delivering on today's commitments." "Alpha Omega is at the forefront of shaping markets to enable its federal customers to accomplish their missions more quickly, efficiently, and effectively," Laychock said. "Some of my favorite successes come from scaling teams, capabilities, and processes – the rewards of working hard, working smart, and engaging with people. My job is to manage the business and make life easier for employees and customers alike, while driving value through delivery and purpose. Alpha Omega's culture of supporting its people at work and at home is a key enabler behind its growth to a $220+ million company, and I look forward to leveraging it in pursuit of new achievements for the company and customers alike." ABOUT ALPHA OMEGA: Alpha Omega delivers mission-focused solutions to ensure our nation's continued global leadership. We accelerate transformation and operational efficiency via applied expertise in digital modernization, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity, designing and delivering enterprise solutions in support of National Security, Federal Financial, Health, and Space and Science missions. Our agency partners rely on Alpha Omega to modernize and future-proof legacy systems and enhance operational resilience, delivering on our purpose to ensure the safety, security, and well-being of future generations. For more information, visit View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Alpha Omega Sign in to access your portfolio
Associated Press
29-04-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Gautam Ijoor Announced as an EY Entrepreneur Of The Year® 2025 Mid-Atlantic Award finalist
Entrepreneur Of The Year celebrates ambitious entrepreneurs who are shaping the future VIENNA, Va., April 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Alpha Omega CEO and Founder Gautam Ijoor has been named one of the finalists for Ernst & Young's (EY US) prestigious Entrepreneur Of The Year 2025 Mid-Atlantic Award. Alpha Omega is a leading provider of AI-driven modernization, efficiency, and digital transformation solutions within national security, health, space & science, and financial services. Doubling the size of its business through the acquisition of SeKON and Macro Solutions in February, 2025, Alpha Omega has grown to over $139 million in annual revenue in eight years. Alpha Omega is also an award-winning organization named as a top workplace by The Washington Post, USA Today and Virginia Business, and a six-time member of the Inc. 5000. An independent panel of judges selected Mr. Ijoor along with 36 finalists for their entrepreneurial spirit, purpose, growth and lasting impact in building long-term value. 'In the IT and security industries, we pursue processes of continuous improvement, and I consider that a mantra for my life's work. I am so proud to be a part of the entrepreneurial community and to continue to both learn and mentor fellow businesspeople to the benefit of all,' said Mr. Ijoor. 'We know that supporting business and investing in technologies that serve our government and build the next generation of innovators and thinkers is essential to the nation's continued leadership and security. Alpha Omega's mission is to impact how we serve the U.S. and its citizens, collaborating with agencies that affect people's daily lives, from ensuring American food security and legal immigration, to combatting public health challenges.' Now in its 40th year, the Entrepreneur Of The Year program celebrates the bold leaders who disrupt markets through the world's most ground-breaking companies, revolutionizing industries and making a profound impact on communities. The program honors bold entrepreneurs whose innovations shape the future and pave the way for a thriving economy and a hopeful tomorrow. The Mid-Atlantic program celebrates entrepreneurs from Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC. Regional award winners will be announced on June 18 during a special celebration in Washington, DC, and will become lifetime members of an esteemed community of Entrepreneur Of The Year alumni from around the world. The winners will then be considered by the National judges for the Entrepreneur Of The Year National Awards, which will be presented in November at the annual Strategic Growth Forum ®, one of the nation's most prestigious gatherings of high-growth, market-leading entrepreneurs. ABOUT ALPHA OMEGA: Alpha Omega delivers mission-focused solutions to ensure our nation's continued global leadership. We accelerate transformation and operational efficiency via applied expertise in digital modernization, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity, designing and delivering enterprise solutions in support of National Security, Federal Financial, Space and Science, and Healthcare missions. Our agency partners rely on Alpha Omega to modernize and future-proof legacy systems and enhance operational resilience, delivering on our purpose to ensure the safety, security, and well-being of future generations. For more information, visit About Entrepreneur Of The Year Founded in 1986, Entrepreneur Of The Year has celebrated more than 11,000 ambitious visionaries who are leading successful, dynamic businesses in the US, and it has since expanded to nearly 60 countries globally. Entrepreneur Of The Year honors business leaders for their ingenuity, courage and entrepreneurial spirit. The program celebrates original founders who bootstrapped their business from inception or who raised outside capital to grow their company; transformational CEOs who infused innovation into an existing organization to catapult its trajectory; and multigenerational family business leaders who reimagined a legacy business model to strengthen it for the future. The US program consists of 17 regional programs whose panels of independent judges select the regional award winners every June. Those winners compete for national recognition at the Strategic Growth Forum ® in November where National finalists and award winners are announced. The overall National winner represents the US at the EY World Entrepreneur Of The Year™ competition. Visit View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Alpha Omega
Forbes
22-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Discover Napa Valley Noir: Kelly E. Carter's Luxury Wine Experience
(Napa Valley, CA) Kelly E. Carter is the founder of Napa Valley Noir (NVN), a luxury concierge service crafting unforgettable, bespoke experiences in Napa Valley, Sonoma County, and beyond. I'm at an event in California wine country, glass in hand, mid-conversation, when I spot her. Excusing myself with all the grace I can muster, I perform the classic wine walk over—smooth, but with a hint of "don't spill the Pinot." I place my hand on my chest, avert my eyes just enough, give a slight bow, and say, 'Director Carter.' She grins, as always, and hits me with her signature, 'Boy, you need to stop.' This little ritual of ours has been going strong for almost five years, and honestly, it never gets old. If you flipped open the Wine Dictionary and searched my name and career, skip the colorful adjectives and head straight to the etymology, there, you'd find Kelly E. Carter, founder of Napa Valley Noir on a short list right next to Ryan Williams. If Ryan is the Godfather of Napa Valley, Kelly is its Glamazon Queen—fierce, brilliant, magnetic, and clearly handpicked by the wine gods themselves. Our history starts in 2020 with seven simple words typed into Google: "Black Wine Professionals in the Napa Valley." Up pops Kelly—ranking high, naturally. Her bio practically shouted "powerhouse": journalist, Director of Communications at Alpha Omega Winery, Delta Sigma Theta sorority member (I grew up in a Divine 9 household). I don't remember exactly where she ranked in the search results, but I do remember this—she was #1 on my reach-out list. One email later, I had an invite and an interview at Alpha Omega. That one email also led to introductions to some serious movers and shakers in the wine industry. Oh, and Kelly doesn't know this (or maybe she does, she's sharp like that), but that same email turned into her recommending me for a contributor gig at Haute Living SF. My first consistent writing job - all because of Kelly. She's been nothing but a champion—of me, her community, and anyone with a passion for wine. So when Kelly called to say she was leaving Alpha Omega to start her next big thing and asked if I'd support her, I nearly dropped my phone laughing. "Is that a real question? Of course, sista!" I told her. "But one thing—can I still call you 'Director Carter'?" That vision has come to life with Napa Valley Noir (NVN), a luxury concierge service crafting unforgettable, bespoke experiences in Napa Valley, Sonoma County, and beyond. 'Napa Valley Noir was born out of my love for Napa Valley and my desire to offer unparalleled access to its hidden gems,' Carter shares. 'This is more than a concierge service—it's a gateway to bespoke adventures, where every detail reflects the client's unique style, interests, and appreciation for the finer things in life.' NVN isn't just about luxury—it's a celebration of diversity and inclusivity. Kelly E. Carter is redefining the wine industry, shattering its perceived exclusivity by embedding inclusivity into NVN's very core. 'Everyone deserves to feel welcomed and cared for,' Carter explains. 'That's the spirit behind Napa Valley Noir.' With her journalistic storytelling expertise and unwavering passion for championing inclusivity, Carter is making NVN a trailblazer in the luxury travel and wine world. I had the incredible opportunity to sit down with CEO Carter for an inspiring Q&A—stay tuned to hear her story and vision! Growing up in Los Angeles, my mother's aunt lived with us and was the closest thing I had to a grandmother. She liked Manischewitz at dinner, and I occasionally was allowed a few sips when I was in grade school. I loved the wine because it tasted like grape juice. My mother, who never remarried after my father died of emphysema when I was six, preferred spirits. In the early 80s, like many other Americans, I was hooked on wine coolers. I transitioned to Chardonnay and White Zinfandel. True story: While on a Bermuda vacation with a beau in the early 90s, I ordered a bottle of what I thought was White Zinfandel at a fine dining restaurant. Imagine my shock when the waiter brought us a bottle of red wine! Rather than show my ignorance, we drank the Zinfandel. In 1991, I became the first female beat writer for the Los Angeles Lakers, covering every home and away game, the NBA All-Star game, and NBA Finals for four years. Gary Vitti, the Lakers trainer at the time, convinced me to switch to red wine because of its health benefits. The first memorable bottle I purchased was a 1994 Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon at a wine shop near my South San Francisco hotel when I was an NFL writer for USA Today and in town for a 49ers game. I didn't set out to work in wine—quite the opposite. I initially feared that turning my passion into a profession would take the joy out of simply sipping a glass and unwinding. I worried that I'd focus too much on dissecting aromas and flavors instead of just enjoying the experience. Thankfully, that hasn't been the case. In fact, the more I learn about wine, the more I appreciate each sip, knowing how many hands and how much care has gone into crafting each bottle. When I moved to Napa Valley in 2015, while still the editor of Haute Living San Francisco magazine, I was immediately captivated—not just by the rolling hills that reminded me of my two years living in Italy (2003–2005), but by the wine industry itself. I became deeply interested in the stories behind the wineries—the passion and vision of the vintners, the thought process of the winemakers, and the dedication of vineyard workers, whom I have gained tremendous respect for over the past decade. My first job in the wine industry was as Director of Communications at Alpha Omega winery in Rutherford. Over seven years, I worked closely with co-proprietors Robin and Michelle Baggett and collaborated with every department, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the industry. This experience allowed me to deepen my knowledge of wine production, events, direct-to-consumer sales, the nuances of the tasting room, sustainability initiatives, and philanthropy—insights that now shape my approach to curating luxe experiences with Napa Valley Noir. Inspired after attending Wine Women's 'Back to School: Insider tips on education, certification and training' seminar in early March 2020, just before the country shut down due to Covid, I began my formal studies during the shutdown. Although I had already been working in the wine industry for four years, I chose to start with WSET Level 1. Just as I wouldn't build a house starting on the second floor, I didn't want to skip foundational knowledge in my wine education. From there, I earned WSET awards Level 2 with distinction and Level 3 with merit. I also expanded my expertise with a Discovering Italian Wine certificate while awaiting my Level 3 results. (Napa Valley, CA) Napa Valley Noir Founder Kelly E. Carter (center) with clients. In 2024, I founded Napa Valley Noir, a luxury concierge service, but in many ways, I've been building toward this moment for a few decades. My career has always been about storytelling, connection, and exploring the extraordinary. As an award-winning journalist, I traveled the world—visiting more than 40 countries and territories—developing an appreciation for luxury, culture, and hospitality. My seven years as Director of Communications at Alpha Omega winery gave me an insider's perspective on the wine industry and allowed me to cultivate invaluable relationships with proprietors, winemakers, and hospitality leaders. Through Napa Valley Noir, I bring all these experiences together to curate bespoke, insider experiences that exceed expectations. By crafting itineraries that reveal the true soul of Napa Valley and Sonoma County, while matching palate to purse, I want people to fall as deeply in love with America's premier wine destinations as I have. My goal is to open doors, make wine country more inclusive, and ensure that every guest leaves feeling enriched, inspired, and truly welcomed. The wine industry is facing challenges, partly because it was slow to embrace diverse consumers. My clients reflect this evolving landscape, spanning Black couples, Caucasian families, single Latinas, and even an Italian fashion house. I recognize that for many in the BIPOC community, wine appreciation is a more recent journey. Many of us didn't grow up with wine cellars in our homes or generations of wine lovers in our families. At Napa Valley Noir, I curate experiences for everyone—from newcomers to longtime aficionados—ensuring that each guest receives the same level of care and dedication. Whether it's a milestone birthday or anniversary, I may arrange a private home rental on a vineyard, an immersive culinary adventure in a wine cave or vineyard with live entertainment, or exclusive access to winery owners and winemakers. Luxury transportation, exotic car experiences, and helicopter tours are also within reach. One of my greatest joys is introducing seasoned wine enthusiasts to fresh, unexpected experiences in Napa and Sonoma. I also find fulfillment in helping people navigate Napa Valley's vast landscape of 400+ wineries—curating itineraries that align with their tastes and interests. And today, not every itinerary revolves around wine. Napa Valley and Sonoma can enchant visitors with exceptional mocktails and dealcoholized wines, proving that in the end, it's the region's natural beauty and tranquility that make them magical year-round escapes. With Napa Valley Noir, I make sure my clients—whether newcomers or longtime enthusiasts—get access to wineries where they'll feel welcomed, respected, and educated. It's not just about experiencing wine, but about feeling like you truly belong in wine country. I do feel like the wine industry loves me. I was fortunate that when I joined Alpha Omega in 2016, vintners Robin and Michelle Baggett encouraged me to join the Napa Valley Vintners Public Relations Committee, which I chaired the following year, and the Wine Institute's Marketing & Communications committee. I've worked closely with NVV on various initiatives. In 2017, I accompanied the Baggetts to Washington, D.C., for the Wine Institute's annual Washington Meeting where vintners get together with policymakers and regulators to discuss issues critical to a healthy and vibrant wine sector and attended a few of the Wine Institute's annual winter meetings in Pebble Beach. I was often the only Black face in the room and, as such, mingled with as many vintners as possible in hopes that by getting to know me, they would be encouraged to hire members of the BIPOC community in upper management roles. There is always room for improvement. I don't want to hear people in hiring positions say that they don't know where to find BIPOC candidates. Many wineries still struggle to market to diverse consumers. There has been a tremendous increase in the number of people of color working in the wine industry and pursuing careers in wine. In February 2025, I attended two gatherings for Napa Valley's growing Black wine community. I was one of the few who attended both, and at each event, I only knew a fraction of the guests. That speaks volumes about the exponential growth of Black wine professionals. And the number of Black-owned wine brands? It's nearly impossible to keep up! It seems like every day I discover another, which is fantastic. The increased focus on diversity—driven by DEI initiatives, though unfortunately, many of those have faded—along with the rise of organizations like Wine Unify, the Veraison Project, and The Roots Fund, has been phenomenal. Much of this growth is happening among women in what has traditionally been a male-dominated industry. But because meaningful change took so long to take root, the industry will be playing catch-up for quite some time. Still, progress is undeniable. From Leilani Baugh opening Vin en Noir in downtown Napa to the McBride Sisters purchasing a vineyard in Carneros, and the ever-growing number of Black women-owned wine brands, the future is bright. Or should I say… dark? Wine needs to be more approachable and less intimidating. Seeing fifteen descriptors on tasting notes is excessive—if someone picks up only a couple of flavors, that doesn't mean they don't know anything. The focus should be on enjoyment and how wine brings people together. One of the best examples of making wine relatable is a scene in the 2020 film Uncorked, where a Black man working in a wine shop compares varietals to hip-hop artists while helping a Black woman new to wine. Chardonnay is like Jay-Z, Kanye West like Pinot Grigio, and Drake like Riesling. It was a brilliant touch by writer/director Prentice Penny. Recognizing the tremendous spending power of people of color is crucial. At the same time, offering a tier of affordable wines is key. Most consumers will level up after being introduced to something new, but you have to get them in the door first. I applaud Malek Amrani, proprietor of The Vice, for making Napa Valley wines accessible without compromising quality. (Napa Valley, CA) Kelly E. Carter aboard the Napa Valley Wine Yacht on the Napa River Representation also matters—hiring more BIPOC professionals in visible positions, from sommeliers to winemakers to executives, will help reshape the industry's culture. Financial institutions play a major role too. Banks must offer people of color the same access to funding, at comparable interest rates, as they do for white entrepreneurs seeking to start or expand wine-related businesses. Lastly, wine education should be more accessible. Scholarships, mentorship programs, and community-driven events that welcome diverse audiences can help bridge the gap. The more people see themselves reflected in the industry, the more inclusive it will become. I always encourage people who want to work in wine to start their formal wine education as soon as possible—it not only deepens their knowledge but also positions them for better opportunities. I love what Anthony Mueller is doing. He left Robert Parker Wine Advocate, where he had been a reviewer since 2019, to start his own venture, that uses a free business model to help make reviews more accessible. Over the past five years, the wine industry has made strides in recognizing the importance of diversity, though there is still much work to be done. We've seen more initiatives aimed at increasing representation, from the birth of organizations like Wine Unify and The Roots Fund providing scholarships and mentorship to people of color, to wineries making a more conscious effort to create inclusive spaces. Some major wine competitions, media outlets, and trade organizations have also begun amplifying diverse voices and featuring a broader range of perspectives. However, true change requires more than surface-level gestures. While there are more Black and brown faces in tasting rooms, wine marketing campaigns, and panel discussions, the real progress will be measured by ownership and leadership opportunities. We need more people of color in executive roles, as winemakers, vineyard owners, and decision-makers. Ultimately, the industry is moving in the right direction, but there's still plenty of catching up to do. First, storytelling matters. Wine brands should showcase diverse winemakers, vineyard owners, and professionals in their marketing to show that the wine world is for everyone. Representation sparks interest. Hiring more people of color as wine professionals, placing them in high-profile positions, and amplifying their voices through industry events and media can make a significant impact. But it's not just wine brands that can help. Films such as Uncorked, which tells the story of a young Black man torn between his dream of becoming a master sommelier and his father's expectations that he'll take over the family barbecue business in Memphis, and television shows can raise awareness of wine to a diverse group of people. Second, wine needs to be part of lifestyle moments. Spirits brands seamlessly integrate into music, fashion, sports, and pop culture. Wine can do the same by hiring influencers and content creators of various ethnicities to bring awareness, as well as partnering with artists, chefs, and creatives who resonate with younger, diverse audiences. In 2024, the NBA and WNBA became partners with Kendall-Jackson, and La Crema, respectively, making parent company Jackson Family Wines look brilliant. Third, accessibility is key. Many young consumers are intimidated by traditional wine culture. I recently stumbled across a page on a prominent Napa Valley wineries website about how to have the best wine tasting experience. One tip is: 'Leave lipsticks, lip gloss, perfumes, and cologne at home.' OK, so I get it with perfumes and cologne because of the aromas, which can also affect others' experience. But makeup? As the website states, 'The taste of lipstick and lip gloss interacts poorly with wine (making it distasteful).' Try telling that to a female influencer with 500,000 followers not to wear lipstick. Sometimes the rules are just too much. Wine brands can also host interactive tastings in non-traditional spaces such as music festivals, brunch spots, or even sneaker stores, sponsor events in non-white communities and collaborate with organizations like Black wine groups. Additionally, multi-cultural marketing is as essential as actively recruiting from HBCUs to diversify the talent pipeline and consumer base. Finally, digital engagement is crucial. Social media should be more than just bottle shots—it should be storytelling, humor, behind-the-scenes vineyard content, and real conversations. Leveraging platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels can demystify wine and make it feel as dynamic as the spirits industry has made cocktails. The goal isn't to change wine itself—it's to change how it's perceived. When you make wine feel personal, inclusive, and fun, new consumers will follow. It's important that I continue to champion wine country tourism to diverse consumers, whether through curated experiences or media presence. I'm setting an example for women entrepreneurs, proving that there's space for more women—especially Black women—to lead in the luxury and wine tourism arenas. Napa Valley is a wonderful place to live—it's safe, beautiful, feels like a sophisticated farming community and people look out for one another. There's no shortage of entertainment, from concerts and festivals year-round to an ever-present art scene. The culinary scene is amazing, but I wish more restaurants had late-night kitchens. However, I like to rise early and watch the hot air balloons drift by my window, enjoy a hike or vineyard walk. One thing I didn't expect was the deep connection I've developed with nature. I love picking grapes during harvest. Living here has made me slow down and appreciate the beauty of my surroundings. That said, due to Napa's lack of diversity, it can feel isolating at times. And dating? Let's just say it's about as challenging as finding someone who knows how to style my hair. Well, it's not a varietal but if I drank nothing but Champagne for the rest of the year, I'd bubble over with excitement—and never run out of perfect food pairings. From oysters to fried chicken, Champagne makes every meal feel like a celebration. I have a t-shirt that reads 'Champagne & French Fries' with a heart emoji. It's been 20 years since I visited Reims. I'm long overdue for a return and trying to figure out how to go on Erin Riley's Be Bubbly Journey to Champagne. As you know, she's the Queen of Bubbles, and it would be fun to have her as my guide. I'd be a full-time writer. I co-authored a New York Times bestseller with tennis icon Venus Williams, Come to Win: Business Leaders, Artists, Doctors, and Other Visionaries on How Sports Can Help You Top Your Profession, and wrote National Geographic Book's The Dog Lover's Guide to Travel, which won a Lowell Thomas Award. Currently, I'm immersed in writing my memoir, Bellini for One, and in the early stages of an exciting collaboration with two phenomenal women on a new book project. Storytelling has always been my passion—whether through words or curated experiences. Kelly E. Carter wine tasting in Montalcino, Italy Some of my favorite wines are Argiano's Brunello di Montalcino, Ornellaia's Super Tuscans, Gaja's Barolos, Altamura's Nebbiolo from Napa Valley, which I always order when I dine at Ciccio in Yountville, anything Rudd Estate in Oakville produces but especially its Samantha's Cabernet Sauvignon, VGS Chateau Potelle Cabernet Sauvignon from Mt. Veeder, Mt. Brave's Cabernet Franc, Lapostolle Cuvee Alexandre Carmenère and Perinet's Vinya Mas del Xes Garnatxa from the Priorat. BRAND Napa Valley makes an amazing Proprietary Blend. For Chardonnay, two of my faves are Kistler and Pierre-Yves Colin-Morey. I have five pairs of 'Rosé All Day' shoes in various styles and can easily drink Le Féte du Rose and Domaine de la Bastide Blanche Rosé from Bandol all day. It's nearly impossible to choose just one, but a few Italian regions hold a special place in my heart. I love Montalcino—Napa's newest sister city—for its Brunellos, Valpolicella for its rich, velvety Amarones, and Barolo for the sheer seductiveness of Nebbiolo. During the 2023 holidays, I hosted a gathering and opened several bottles of 'older' wines. The hands-down favorite? A 2013 LVE Cabernet Sauvignon, a collaboration between John Legend and Raymond Vineyard in Napa Valley. Not only is the wine fantastic, but the marketing is just as impressive, with John actively promoting the brand and helping raise funds for Napa Valley. And for a non-alcoholic option, Kylie Minogue's alcohol-free sparkling Rosé truly sparkles. Traveling is my jam! I have a trophy map with push pins indicating where I've been across the globe. I'm itching to add my 49th country. Reading is my favorite pastime—I buy far more books than I have time to read, but I love supporting my writer friends. When I'm not working, I power walk in the vineyards as often as possible (got to burn off the calories from supporting Yountville's incredible restaurants!). And of course, I enjoy getting together with wine-loving friends, sharing great bottles and creating memories. That's what wine is all about, right?
