Gary’s affection for his home state began early, formed during countless family trips to both the beaches of the central coast and the heights of the Sierras. Growing up in the Central Valley, the most fertile stretch of farmland on earth, an innate sense of California’s ability to provide and delight took root in him. But as many in the valley do, Gary left for the big cities, pursuing higher education in Los Angeles, and then even further away in Seattle. After all the papers had been written and the tests passed, it was during a time of soul-searching that he landed a serving job at a fine dining restaurant. It was here that something both new and old revealed itself: the joy of serving and sharing good food and drink. A return to his hometown sparked an even deeper desire to pursue this path, leading him to become a professional sommelier. When not thinking and drinking wine, he continues to explore the golden state with his wife and son.