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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. We’re 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. We’re 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 Christopher’s fifteen years of experience in competitive markets like Houston, San Francisco and Los Angeles. Whether you’re 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, you’ve found your podcast.
Episodes
Tuesday Apr 08, 2025
Tuesday Apr 08, 2025
In this insightful episode, we sit down with the incredibly talented Chef Celtin Hendrickson of Prelude, a restaurant recently acknowledged with a Michelin "nod." Celtin takes us on his inspiring journey, starting from his early days as a dishwasher to becoming the driving force behind a unique and elevated take on Southern cuisine right here in California. Discover how childhood memories, especially those of his grandmother's grits, deeply influence his innovative tasting menus. Celtin shares how he masterfully blends the nostalgia of authentic Southern flavors with the incredible local ingredients found in California, even drawing inspiration from places beyond our region. Beyond the exceptional food, Chef Hendrickson passionately discusses his philosophy on hospitality. He emphasizes the importance of creating a truly welcoming and special experience for every guest, breaking down the traditional "fourth wall" to reveal the human element and heart behind his dedicated team. Tune in to hear Celtin's personal stories, his creative process, and his vision for bringing a taste of Southern soul to the California culinary landscape at Prelude.
Topics Covered:
• Chef Celtin Hendrickson's journey from dishwasher to chef
• The inspiration behind Prelude's elevated Southern tasting menu
• The influence of childhood memories and family recipes • Blending Southern nostalgia with California ingredients
• Celtin's philosophy on hospitality and guest experience
• Breaking the fourth wall and the human element in restaurants
• Getting a Michelin "nod" acknowledgment
• AND so much more! Listen and watch to see what he has to say.
Want more from The Reluctant Somm? 🍷
Join us at an upcoming event!: https://www.thereluctantsomm.com/events
Free Wine Community Resources: https://www.thereluctantsomm.com/community
Stay in the loop with our monthly guide & Newsletter: https://www.thereluctantsomm.com
Follow us on Instagram: @thereluctantsomm
#wine #podcast #interview #sommelier #restaurant #sanfrancisco #riesling #beveragedirector #hospitality
Tuesday Apr 01, 2025
Tuesday Apr 01, 2025
From a high school gig at a local Mexican joint to working in a restaurant in Honduras while diving the depths of its reefs, Adam Robins' path to beverage director at San Francisco's State Bird Provisions, The Progress, and Anchovy Bar is anything but ordinary. We trace his journey, from Michael Mina's influence to his deep dive into German Riesling, and explore the importance of connecting directly with the producers behind the bottle. Adam shares his unique perspective on the industry, reminding us that "it takes work to have fun." Join us as we uncover the story behind the list, and discover the dedication it takes to craft a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Want more from The Reluctant Somm? 🍷 Join us at an upcoming event!: https://www.thereluctantsomm.com/events
Free Wine Community Resources: https://www.thereluctantsomm.com/community
Stay in the loop with our monthly guide & Newsletter: https://www.thereluctantsomm.com
Follow us on Instagram: @thereluctantsomm
#wine #podcast #interview #sommelier #restaurant #sanfrancisco #riesling #beveragedirector #hospitality
Tuesday Mar 25, 2025
Tuesday Mar 25, 2025
Adrian Chan's been in some serious kitchens, like Atelier Crenn and Angler, and he's got stories. We talk Michelin standards, the whole burnout thing, and why he's now moving to the front of the house to really get the full picture of hospitality.
Grab a glass, hit play, and join the conversation. 🎙🍷
Want more from The Reluctant Somm? 🍷
Join us at an upcoming event!: https://www.thereluctantsomm.com/events
Free Wine Community Resources: https://www.thereluctantsomm.com/community
Stay in the loop with our monthly guide & Newsletter: https://www.thereluctantsomm.com
Follow us on Instagram: @thereluctantsomm
#wine #podcast #interview #winepairing #somm #restaurants #hospitality
Monday Mar 17, 2025
Monday Mar 17, 2025
What do guitars and grenache have in common? More than you'd think. Today, we're joined by Jesse Hudson—musician turned wine industry newcomer—to unpack his unorthodox path into wine. Together, we challenge the idea that wine should be an elite pursuit, argue why it’s time to shake up the industry, and explore the magic of keeping an open mind (and palate).
This episode is for anyone who’s felt like an outsider looking in—whether you're a sommelier, a hospitality pro, or just someone curious about wine. Jesse keeps it real as we talk journeys, humility, and why wine should belong to everyone.
Grab a glass, hit play, and join the conversation. 🎙🍷
Want more from The Reluctant Somm? 🍷
Join us at an upcoming event!: https://www.thereluctantsomm.com/events
Free Wine Community Resources: https://www.thereluctantsomm.com/community
Stay in the loop with our monthly guide & Newsletter: https://www.thereluctantsomm.com
Follow us on Instagram: @thereluctantsomm
#wine #podcast #interview #winepairing #somm #restaurants #hospitality
Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
The Franscioni family is synonymous with the Santa Lucia Highlands. Nick Franscioni joined us this week and gave us great understanding of the history, geology, and current climates of SLH. We discussed their experimental sparkling wine, the love for Rhone grapes and their diverse agriculture (their avocados are incredible). Additionally they along with other producers in the region have been collaborating on educational trips for industry professionals which I think is vastly important to show the new generations involvement in the evolution of the wineries.
Want more from The Reluctant Somm? 🍷
Join us at an upcoming event!: https://www.thereluctantsomm.com/events
Free Wine Community Resources: https://www.thereluctantsomm.com/community
Stay in the loop with our monthly guide & Newsletter: https://www.thereluctantsomm.com
Follow us on Instagram: @thereluctantsomm
#wine #podcast #interview #winemakers #winepairing #somm #restaurants #wineries #hospitality #santaluciahighlands
Tuesday Mar 04, 2025
Tuesday Mar 04, 2025
This week, we’re thrilled to welcome Andre John to the podcast as he shares his inspiring journey from Pittsburgh to Dallas, and now to his current endeavors in San Francisco. Andre discusses how he navigated pivotal changes after the pandemic, reflects on the incredible individuals who played key roles in shaping his path, and reveals his unique approach to pairing Southern Indian cuisine. Plus, get an exclusive sneak peek at the exciting new project from the team at Copra San Francisco!
Want more from The Reluctant Somm? 🍷
Join us at an upcoming event!: https://www.thereluctantsomm.com/events
Free Wine Community Resources: https://www.thereluctantsomm.com/community
Stay in the loop with our monthly guide & Newsletter: https://www.thereluctantsomm.com
Follow us on Instagram: @thereluctantsomm
#wine #podcast #interview #indianfood #winepairing #somm #restaurants #hospitality
Tuesday Feb 25, 2025
Tuesday Feb 25, 2025
What does it take to build a lasting legacy in the world of wine? On this episode of The Reluctant Somm, we explore the "Ramey" approach with Claire Ramey of Ramey Wines. We delve into the generational shifts shaping the industry, the meticulous farming practices that define their wines, and the importance of teamwork and leadership in the trenches. Discover how Ramey Wines is balancing tradition with innovation, crafting exceptional wines while staying true to their family values. A must-listen for wine enthusiasts and anyone interested in the business of building a successful brand.
Want more from The Reluctant Somm? 🍷
Join us at an upcoming event!: https://www.thereluctantsomm.com/events
Free Wine Community Resources: https://www.thereluctantsomm.com/community
Stay in the loop with our monthly guide & Newsletter: https://www.thereluctantsomm.com
Follow us on Instagram: @thereluctantsomm
#wine #femalewinemaker #womeninwine #napavalley #rameywines #winemaking #winepodcast #familybusiness #generationalshifts #meticulousfarming #claireRamey #thereluctantsomm #leadership #teamwork
Tuesday Feb 18, 2025
Tuesday Feb 18, 2025
This week, we spoke with Timothy Hinueber, the general manager of Roaming Goat in San Francisco, who’s redefining what it means to run a wine bar. Timothy shared his thoughts on building genuine trust with guests and creating an experience that keeps people coming back. We explored his deep appreciation for the wines of the Caucasus Mountains and the wildly deep history of the winemaking in those regions. If you’re interested in how hospitality and innovation can work together, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.
Want more from The Reluctant Somm? 🍷
Join us at an upcoming event!: https://www.thereluctantsomm.com/events
Free Wine Community Resources: https://www.thereluctantsomm.com/community
Stay in the loop with our monthly guide & Newsletter: https://www.thereluctantsomm.com
Follow us on Instagram: @reluctantsomm
Tuesday Feb 11, 2025
Tuesday Feb 11, 2025
For the past three years, I’ve had the privilege of selling Brian Terrizzi's exceptional wines, but it was truly special to finally sit down with him and gain a deeper understanding of the vision and dedication behind Giornata Wines and Etto Pasta. Brian and Stephy’s passion doesn’t stop there—they also run a fantastic restaurant and are set to release a cookbook soon! It was exciting to catch up on all their incredible ventures, and I can’t wait to see the amazing achievements they’ll continue to bring to life.
Want more from The Reluctant Somm? 🍷 Join us at an upcoming event!: https://www.thereluctantsomm.com/events
Free Wine Community Resources: https://www.thereluctantsomm.com/comm...
Stay in the loop with our monthly guide & Newsletter:
https://www.thereluctantsomm.com
Follow us on Instagram: @reluctantsomm
Tuesday Feb 04, 2025
Tuesday Feb 04, 2025
In this episode of The Reluctant Somm, we chat with Ryan Torres, a talented sommelier from Niku Steakhouse in San Francisco. Ryan shares his journey from theatre kid to wine expert, revealing how his acting background has shaped his approach to restaurant service. We also discuss the current state of San Francisco and city life, exploring how it impacts the restaurant scene and the role of hospitality in the city. Finally, Ryan shares his insights on challenged vintages, those wines often overlooked but can still deliver exceptional quality. Join us for a fascinating conversation about the intersection of theatre, wine, and the art of service.
Want more from The Reluctant Somm? 🍷
Join us at an upcoming event!: https://www.thereluctantsomm.com/events
Free Wine Community Resources: https://www.thereluctantsomm.com/community
Stay in the loop with our monthly guide & Newsletter: https://www.thereluctantsomm.com
Follow us on Instagram: @reluctantsomm