About Me

I started formal wine study in 2010 which led to my completion of the Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Diploma in 2014.  I also hold the WSET Advanced Certification, WSET Intermediate Certification, an Introductory Sommelier Certificate from the Court of the Master Sommeliers (CMS), and the Certified Specialist of Wine certification (CSW) from the Society of Wine Educators.  Finally, I studied in the Institute of Masters of Wine Programme for two years during which I won the 2015 Reh Kendermann Masters of Wine Student Bursary. 

I've traveled to dozens of wine regions around the world (including Italy, Portugal, France, Germany, Spain, South Africa, and Australia) and maintain two wine blogs at https://eodalton.wordpress.com/ and http://www.chicagonow.com/chicago-wine . I also work in technology and hold a B.B.A. from the University of Iowa and and an M.B.A. from Loyola University Chicago.

Favorite Wine Region: Douro Valley, Portugal

Favorite First Wine:  1996 Freemark Abbey Cabernet Sauvignon

Favorite Grape: Nebbiolo

Favorite Grape Soil: Volcanic

Favorite Food Wine Pairing: Chicago Lou Malnati's deep-dish pepperoni pizza with Conterno Fantino Barolo Sori Ginestra