Wine Hosts

HOST YEAR
2025|2026

Your Wine Expert

One of the most wonderful aspects of our Celebration of Wine River Cruises is the opportunity to sail with an experienced wine expert. Their refined palates will allow your clients to swirl their glass and discover the unique notes of each varietal they sip, gain pairing recommendations and get answers to their questions about viticulture and more. Our Wine Hosts proudly bring bottles from either their winery or their favorite winery to conduct tastings and stimulate discussions on board. Most often sailing with members of their wine club, these hosts focus on highlighting the growing conditions and production techniques that create the unique characteristics of their wines as well as the differences between their bottles and those of the Old-World regions we sail through.

Aug 19, 2025
Stephen Storrs & Pamela Bianchini-Storrs
Aug 21, 2025
Aug 26, 2025
Aug 28, 2025
Clare Tudor
The Aussie Somm, Provence, France

Australian Clare Tudor has always had a passion for wine – the places it comes from, the people who make it and the story of how it ends up in your glass.

After an inspiring year living all things wine in Napa California, Clare became a Certified Sommelier with the Court of Master Sommeliers and began her career as Wine Director for a Los Angeles restaurant group. With wine education spearheading her passion, Clare has trained numerous budding Somms and oenophiles. Her infectious passion attracts people from all walks of life wanting to know more about the wonderous world of wine with every sip and swirl.

With more than 25 years of experience in the hospitality and television industries, Clare truly is a global wine expert. She also operates her own luxury wine travel business in Provence, France and you’ll always find her curiously exploring vineyards and intriguing wines throughout Europe, the Americas and the lands Downunder.

Aug 28, 2025
Kevin Correll
Barrage Cellars, Woodinville, WA
Barrage Cellars is a family owned boutique winery, making wine in true Garagiste fashion with a focus on terroir and 100% varietals from the finest vineyards and regions of Washington for the last 17 years. Kevin is not against blending grapes of different varietals but prefers to showcase the elegance and nuances of single varietals from Washington State. Earning his enology certificate from UC Davis, you can be assured that these wines are one of a kind. Kevin and his wife Bonni are as passionate to get to know those that love their wines as they are to create and share some of the most memorable wines available. Barrage can be defined as to bombard. Which is exactly what these wines will do to your palate with the intense and unforgettable flavors of Barrage Cellars wines.
Aug 28, 2025
Oct 20, 2025
Tony Aspler
Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario, Canada

With over five decades of prolific writing experience, Tony is a multifaceted luminary in the worlds of literature, wine education, and culinary arts. His illustrious career includes a 21-year tenure as the wine columnist for the Toronto Star, where he shared his profound expertise with a global audience through esteemed publications like The Wine Spectator, Decanter, and Quench.

Tony's literary repertoire boasts 27 authored books, predominantly focused on the intricate relationship between food and wine, alongside co-authorship of 11 novels, showcasing the depth of his literary contributions. His outstanding achievements have earned him prestigious accolades, including the Order of Canada and induction into the esteemed New York Media Wine Writers Hall of Fame, along with international recognition such as the Officers Cross of the Order of Civil Merit from Spain.

Beyond his writing prowess, Tony's influence extends to the world of wine judging, having chaired the Canadian wines panel at the Decanter World Wine Awards for an impressive fifteen years. He is the visionary behind the annual Ontario Wine Awards competition and holds esteemed positions including honorary governor of Cuvée and directorship at the Independent Wine & Spirit Trust and The Canadian Wine Library.

Tony's commitment to community and philanthropy is evident through his co-founding of Grapes for Humanity, a charitable foundation that harnesses his passion for wine to enact positive change globally. Honored with accolades like the Royal Bank Business Citizen of the Year Award at the Niagara Grape & Wine Festival 2000 and the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario’s Challenge Coin, Tony's legacy is one of unparalleled dedication to the culinary and oenological arts, as well as to making a meaningful impact on the world.

Oct 27, 2025
Thomas Eggler
Owner of the four-star ski hotel Arlberghaus, Lecb, Austria

Thomas Eggler has been delighting guests and educating them about Austrian wines for many years. Third-generation owner of the four-star ski hotel Arlberghaus in the alps of western Austria, Thomas has developed a deep love of Austrian wines as he has selected them to pair with the delicious cuisine in his own restaurant. Drawing on that expertise—and relationships built through decades with Austrian winemakers—he has launched wine tastings in the hotel, which fill up quickly with European and international guests alike. As we cruise the Danube through Austrian wine country, including the acclaimed Wachau Valley, Thomas will entertain you—as he does his hotel guests—with tales of local winemaking, introduce you to some of his favorite winemakers, curate exceptional bottles for tastings onboard and, working with our chef, pair them with a grand wine dinner.

Oct 30, 2025
Steve Lutz
Winemaker, Founder of Lenné Estate, Willamette Valley, OR
Lenné Estate winery founder Steve Lutz developed a passion for wine shortly after graduating from the University of Oregon, and moved to Napa Valley to work and learn in cellars and tasting rooms at Beringer, Franciscan, Inglenook, Vichon and Merryvale Vineyards. While in Napa, he made his first homemade pinot in 1986 and was immediately hooked on the challenges and rewards of pinot. Steve returned to Oregon in 1999, and established Lenné Estate, a classic Willamette Valley winery: small, family-owned, entirely estate-grown, intensely focused on well-balanced Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays that express soils and climate. While the Lenné winery is now in new hands, Steve is contemplating his next role in the vastly expanded Oregon wine world, extending his involvement out to the far eastern edges of the state in the Rocks of Milton-Freewater AVA. Steve and his wife Karen look forward to exploring Bordeaux with you as Wine Hosts.
Oct 30, 2025
Stephen & Sylvia Taplin
Owners, Taplin Cellars, Napa, CA

Stephen grew up in the Napa Valley, where his family first settled in the 1800s. He and his siblings were the fifth generation on land his ancestor had identified as having the right conditions for winegrowing. Always appreciative of a good meal, with good wine and good company, he went off to have a career as a physician researcher, which took him to the National Institutes of Health.

Along the way, at a conference in France, he met Sylvia, also a physician, and a native of Chile. They took their passion for good food and wine to a new level when they decided to move back to the Napa Valley, to oversee the day-to-day operations for Taplin Cellars, the label the family created in 2011, after many years of selling their grapes to famed producers. Stephen and Sylvia, and their rescue dog, Roger, live in an adobe house adjacent to the estate, where they enjoy the visits of their children and grandchildren.

Oct 30, 2025
Nov 1, 2025
Nov 2, 2025
Nick Elliott
Wine Educator, The Wine Guy, San Diego, CA

Nick Elliott brings over 30 years of experience in the hospitality and culinary industries. As a Certified Sommelier, former winemaker, and classically trained chef, Nick is passionate about making wine accessible and enjoyable for everyone, from newcomers to seasoned wine lovers. Through his business, The Wine Guy, Nick offers laid-back wine education, private tastings, and staff training, all with a focus on making wine fun—never pretentious.

When he's not sharing his love of wine, Nick enjoys traveling, singing karaoke, and exploring the latest food trends. His philosophy is simple: wine should be an experience, not just a drink. So, whether you're pouring or exploring, Nick is here to make the journey as enjoyable as possible!

Nov 3, 2025
Cole & Karen Wilson
Owners, Knapp Winery, Romulus, NY

Knapp Winery, now 40 years old, was one of the first wineries established in the Finger Lakes (FLX) AVA, and has always have a tradition of quality and innovation. Cole and Karen Wilson have been the proud owners of this outstanding and historic brand since 2021, and are dedicated to producing high quality and expressive wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region. They are long-time residents and supporters of FLX wines; this adventure has allowed them to realize a long-time dream of supporting the region. Karen also works as a pediatrician in Rochester, NY, while Cole brings his unique background in wine and finance to the business. In addition to the winery, Field & Vine restaurant is a farm to table restaurant tucked into the vineyard. Cole is also a member of the Rochester-Finger Lake Châine des Rôtisseurs, the gastronomic society that has partnered with AMA Waterways.

Knapp Winery offers premium estate reds such as Cabernet Franc, and Blaüfrankisch, a German/Austrian vinifera, alongside whites such as signature Rieslings and Chardonnay. Knapp continues to innovate with varietals like Saperavi, a unique Georgian variety that’s gaining new appreciation across the country. Knapp is also the only winery east of the Mississippi to grow the Austrian grape Siegerrebe, the love child of Gewurtztraminer and Madeleine, which creates a wine with aromatic and floral characteristics, and a pleasing minerality.

The FLX AVA climate is very similar to that of Germany, Austria, Alsace, and Switzerland, which is why Cole and Karen were so excited to participate as wine hosts on this AMA Waterways Rhine river cruise. They are looking forward to sharing complementary wines that highlight the similarities and differences between these unique regions.

Nov 6, 2025
Cindy & Jeff Coggin
Newnan, GA

Immerse yourself in the heart of Bordeaux wine country with Cindy and Jeff Coggin, who specialize in hosting intimate groups on unforgettable river cruises. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or just discovering the world of fine wines, Cindy and Jeff’s easygoing charm and infectious passion will guide you on an unforgettable journey through the captivating stories, rich traditions, and diverse flavors of Bordeaux. Jeff has decades of travel experience to go along with a Level 2 Award in Wine (with Distinction) from the Wine & Spirits Education Trust. Cindy has a background in incentive planning and working with destination management companies to create new and different experiences.

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds and awaken your senses through interactive tastings and lively discussions. You'll gain invaluable knowledge and experience exploring the diverse spectrum of wines this famed region has to offer. Unravel the Mysteries of Left Bank vs. Right Bank Reds. Delight in the Crisp Refreshment of White Bordeaux. Indulge in the liquid gold of Bordeaux – Sauternes.

Embark on an engaging discussion as they share their passion for the stories behind the wines. Delve into Bordeaux’s rich history, where tales of legendary wines intertwine with the evolution of a land blessed with exceptional terroir. We'll explore the 1855 classification, a landmark ranking that sparked fervent debate and continues to hold undeniable influence – even as the world of wine has undergone dramatic changes.

Each sip of Bordeaux is a journey through time, history, and the passionate craftsmanship of generations of winemakers. Come, join us, and discover the magic that unfolds in every bottle.

Nov 6, 2025
Nov 6, 2025
Nov 8, 2025
Brad Groper
Chief Sales Officer, Long Meadow Ranch Wine Estates - Napa, CA
Long Meadow Ranch Wine Estates is a family-owned, Napa-based agricultural enterprise renowned for its commitment to organic, sustainable, and diversified farming. Founded in 1989 by Ted, Laddie, and Chris Hall, the ranch revitalized a historic 650-acre property in the Mayacamas Mountains, restoring vineyards, olive groves, and orchards that had lain dormant since Prohibition. Today, Long Meadow Ranch encompasses multiple estates, including the Mayacamas Estate, Rutherford Estate, and Anderson Valley Estate, with over 150 acres of vineyards producing Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sangiovese, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and more. A Boston native, Brad’s lifelong passion for wine and spirits began in his family’s wholesale distribution business, where he worked every role-from warehouse operations to sales and marketing-eventually becoming Director of the Wine Division for Branded Wines. Brad worked harvest at Joseph Phelps, followed by internships at Cos d’Estournel, Champagne Taittinger, and Bouvet in the Loire Valley. In 1991, Brad co-founded an import company with partners in Italy, overseeing business development and U.S. operations. After more than 25 years in the global wine and spirits industry, Brad returned to Napa in 2015, where his wine journey began. He earned a Global Wine MBA from Sonoma State University in 2021, further enhancing his expertise. Today, Brad serves as Chief Sales Officer for Long Meadow Ranch Wine Estates, bringing his passion, leadership, and industry insight to the role. He also sits on the executive committee for export of the California Wine Institute, helping guide the state’s international wine marketing and export initiatives.
Nov 9, 2025
Nov 12, 2025
Les & Sharon Heinsen
Owners, Element 79 Vineyards, El Dorado County, CA

Both born and raised in North Dakota with rich farming backgrounds, Les and Sharon have long had a dream of getting back to their roots and owning a vineyard in beautiful El Dorado County and the Fair Play AVA.

Upon retiring from a 38-year career in the insurance industry, Les has made his vineyard owning dreams a reality and takes his many years of experience in nurturing people to now nurturing grape vines. As they say, "you can take the boy out of the country, but not the country out of the boy".

With a hospitality background and a caring and nurturing personality, Sharon is the perfect host and representative for our brand and wines made from the heart.

Together, Les and Sharon are creating exclusive wines with extraordinary winemaking practices seldom employed by wineries in the Sierra Foothills, and even in California.

Nov 13, 2025
Jan Bugher
Certified Sommelier and Wine Educator, Indianapolis, IN
Jan is a Certified Sommelier through the Court of Master Sommeliers and a member of the Guild of Sommeliers. She is also a Certified Specialist of Wine through the Society of Wine Educators and has earned the distinction of French Wine Scholar through the Wine Scholars Guild. Jan is employed as Wine Director/Sommelier at Bluebeard and its sister company, Amelia's Bakery, in Indianapolis, Indiana. In this capacity, she oversees the wine lists, purchases wine, works as the floor Sommelier assisting guests with wine choices and providing wine service, trains staff on all wine related issues and programs, oversees the wine locker program, and hosts a variety of virtual and in-person wine classes and other events. Jan also serves as the Sommelier for Newfields' (Indianapolis Museum of Art) Wine Collective series, and is a freelance Sommelier for Indianapolis-based wine club and event company, Vine Society. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Linguistics with a French minor from Indiana University and a Beverage Management Certificate from Purdue University.
Nov 13, 2025
Kevin Bersofsky
Owner/Winemaker, Montagne Russe Wines, Healdsburg, CA

Kevin Bersofsky was born an East Coaster but now makes his home outside of San Francisco in Marin County. The closest his family ever got to wine was nice cold gallon jug of screw cap California Chablis on the second shelf of the family fridge. It wasn’t until Kevin went to Cornell University for Engineering that the world of wine would be discovered. In his senior year he was lucky enough to attend the wines class and a new universe opened up to him. Kevin would attend culinary school on the weekends when home from consulting assignments.

In 2005, Sutter Home gave Kevin a front row seat to winemaking, learning the ropes of the wine industry. The wine makers took him under their wing and taught him the basic skills to make wine. Starting around that time he invited 12 friends to make a barrel of Syrah with him in his garage. From that group grew Montagne Russe. The group continued to increase in size until 2013 when he and 130 people were making wine in his Napa garage. Unfortunately Kevin’s neighbor Ross didn’t share in his enthusiasm for wine and called Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms on him in October of 2013. After much legal wranglings Kevin found a loophole in the law, poured 4 barrels of wine down the drain and lived to continue on, starting Montagne Russe for real in 2015. His first pinots scored 94 and 95 pts from Robert Parker. So its no wonder his winery is called Montagne Russe (Roller Coaster in French).

Nov 13, 2025
David R. Duncan
Proprietor/Chairman & CEO, Silver Oak Cellars - Napa, CA

David Duncan, Chairman and CEO of iconic Napa Valley winery, Silver Oak, which also owns Twomey, OVID Napa Valley, and Timeless Napa Valley, leads with a hands-on approach and commitment to continuous improvement. Rather than sitting in an office, he’s often found working in the vineyards, at construction sites or engaging directly with customers. David entered the family business, co-founded by his father Ray in 1972, after completing an MBA in 1994. In 1999, he and his family established Twomey Cellars, producing Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc, and in 2002, David took on a formal leadership role.

A significant turning point came in 2006 when a fire destroyed the Oakville winery, which he rebuilt to become the world’s first LEED Platinum-certified winery. This achievement underscores his commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation, including developing Berry Sensory Analysis for optimal grape ripeness. In 2015, David secured Silver Oak’s oak barrel quality by purchasing The Oak Cooperage, making it the first North American winery with its own cooperage. Under his leadership, the Silver Oak Alexander Valley Winery was completed in 2017 and is now the largest Living Building-certified winery globally.

A community leader, David has served on several boards, including the Napa Valley Vintners, and supports local and national philanthropy initiatives. He represents the California wine industry and has appeared on major news networks and in national publications. David lives in St. Helena with his wife, Kary, and their three children.

Nov 16, 2025
Pavle & Ita Milic
Owner, Los Milics Vineyards, Elgin, AZ

Pavle has a storied career in front-of-house of restaurants in New York, Napa Valley, and Arizona. An early champion of Arizona wines, he volunteered during harvest in Napa to learn winemaking. He returned to Arizona to open FnB Restaurant in Scottsdale with chef Charleen Badman and built a wine list that promoted Arizona wines. The FnB wine list garnered a prestigious James Beard Award nomination for Outstanding Beverage Program. With Los Milics Vineyards, he has realized his dream not just to curate, but to create, uniquely Arizona wines.

Ita, born and raised in the 5th region of Chile, Villa Alemana, Ita is the daughter of Doña Margarita and Don Marco Gomez, whom she refers to as her pillars in life. Mom to a beautiful boy named Renato, who came into her life at age twenty-two. Early on, she discovered a love for plants and nature, a gift passed on from both her grandmothers, Celinda and Hayde. After finding the love of her life, Pavle, she relocated to the United States where the two families were joined: Ita, Renato and Pavle’s kids. She further developed her passion and skills in viticulture through the UC Davis satellite course and working with mentors Kelly and Todd from Dos Cabezas winery. Since 2018, she has been deeply involved in both vineyard and cellar responsibilities with Pavle.

Nov 17, 2025
Nov 19, 2025
Nov 22, 2025
Kathy Gilstrap
Owner, Texas Hills Vineyard, Johnson City, TX

Prior to starting the journey into the world of grape growing and wine making, Kathy and her late husband Gary owned and operated a community pharmacy for over 20 years. In 1995, they relocated to Johnson City, Texas and bought land for the vineyard and winery. Always a lover of wine, Kathy's background in pharmacy involved studies in organic and biochemistry which made for a natural progression into being a part of the art and chemistry of wine making. As one of the first wineries in the Texas Hill Country, Texas Hills Vineyard matched the climate to the grape varietals by planting Pinot Grigio, Syrah and Sangiovee in the vineyard. Receiving recognition for their Pinot Grigio in 1997 and followed with many more accolades including winning a Gold medal for his Kick Butt Cab at an International Double Blind wine tasting competition. The Texas Hills Vineyard philosophy for making wine is: “Make wine that tastes good, not just follow what others are doing, follow your own sense of quality and good taste”. This philosophy is reflected in their motto: “Wine to Share With Friends”. Kathy looks forward to sharing their award-winning Texas Hill Country wines and making new friends on this cruise.

Dec 2, 2025
Chik & Polly Brenneman

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