
Friends and family sometimes tell me they feel intimidated to taste or choose a wine if Barrie is around. That fear should be put to rest, as he has no sense of "elitism" (or as we like to call it "wine snobbery") when it comes to drinking wine. I ask questions all the time. I don't think I will ever really "know" about wines, but it sure is fun to try! He often tells people, if YOU like it, then it is a good wine"!
To compliment our "Doorways to Adventure" blog, Barrie's contribution will be his knowledge and expertise on wine: a window into the wine world. This part of the Blog will be designed for people to learn and ask questions about wine, beer & spirits.
Following is Barrie's professional bio for those of you who don't know him yet. His first blog is being worked on now and we hope you enjoy it. Relax, have fun & learn.
Barrie Larvin — Master Sommelier
Barrie Larvin ranks as one of the world’s most celebrated and accomplished wine professionals worldwide to have earned the prestigious title of “Master Sommelier”. He was the fourth person in the world to earn this distinction in 1970 at the age of 23. As President of Wine Design and as a Master Sommelier, Barrie utilizes his deep and well-honed wine evaluation and acquisition skills, marketing experience and educational talents to assure that his clients have unparalleled access to a unique wine experience, whether helping them source wines or create personal wine cellars.
Barrie’s lifelong passion for wine and work in the industry has led him to be featured inThe Wine Spectator, Food and Wine Magazine, and Bon Appetit. He has graced the covers of The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, The Chicago Tribune and The Sacramento Bee.
In 1996, Barrie joined the Executive Team at the RIO Hotel, Las Vegas where he played a key role in creating the celebrated Wine Cellar, regarded as “The World’s Best & Most Famous Wine Cellar” that was awarded numerous distinctions, including the World’s Largest Private Cellar, the Five Star and Five Diamond Awards.
Barrie is now happily retired and enjoying life.