Los Angeles is home to a vibrant wine scene, thanks in no small part to its leading sommeliers who bring their passion and expertise to the city’s finest dining establishments. These wine experts are more than just beverage consultants; they’re curators of experience, weaving stories into each glass and guiding guests through an ever-evolving world of flavors.

We’re excited to highlight some of Los Angeles’s leading sommeliers in our latest blog. These wine experts are masters of their craft, infusing each dining experience with their unique touch. Whether they’re working their magic at renowned venues or hidden gems, their ability to match wine with cuisine is a key ingredient in the city’s thriving wine scene.

Matthew Kaner 

Matthew Kaner left college early to chase a music career but found his true passion in wine. After working at Wine Cask in Santa Barbara, he moved to LA in 2006, where music plans hit a dead end. He then joined Silverlake Wine and in 2010, co-founded Bar Covell, LA’s first proper wine bar with 150 wines and no printed list—just good conversation.

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David Osenbach 

David Osenbach, a New Jersey native, moved to Los Angeles in 2001 after studying music and culinary arts. He started in front-of-house roles and by 2015, became the wine director at Providence, where Chef Michael Cimarusti crafts nightly fish-forward, multi-course menus.

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Jeffry Undiarto 

Jeffry Undiarto, raised in a restaurant family in Bali, moved to Los Angeles at 19 to join his sister. He quickly gravitated toward Japanese restaurants and picked up wine and saké knowledge on the job. In 2013, he joined n/naka, where Chef Niki Nakayama serves a multi-course kaiseki that can stretch up to three hours. Undiarto curates an affordable wine list, highlighting whites from Languedoc-Roussillon and Austrian Grüner Veltliner. Meanwhile, interest in the full saké pairing, showcasing various styles, continues to rise. 

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Taylor Grant 

Los Angeles native Taylor Grant began her wine journey in 2010, working at a winery and wine shop before a life-changing trip to Europe sparked her passion. Back home, she became a sommelier at Osteria Mozza, then led Scopa’s Italian wine program. In 2016, she opened Old Lightning, a speakeasy behind Scopa, and is now finalizing Dama, a Latin-inspired spot in LA's Fashion District. Despite being part of a rising group of female sommeliers, she still occasionally surprises guests when she presents the wine list.

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Daniel Veit

Daniel Veit grew up in a Philadelphia restaurant family but initially pursued a tech career, where his work with maps sparked an interest in wine regions. He transitioned into the wine business in Santa Barbara, including a role at Les Marchands. Drawn by the dynamic wine culture in Los Angeles, he moved there to be closer to the action. He now serves as the Wine Director at Wally's Fine Wine, Spirits & Gourmet Market. 

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Kristin Olszewski

Kristin Olszewski, the first in her family to attend college, initially aimed to be a doctor. However, while studying at Harvard Medical School, she found herself dreading her medical internship but thriving in service jobs. A mentor encouraged her to switch careers, leading her to sommelier and wine director roles at places like Straight Wharf in Nantucket, Husk in Nashville, and Osteria Mozza in Los Angeles. Noticing young people gravitating towards cocktails, Olszewski founded Nomadica, a line of canned wines, to offer a modern, sustainable alternative to traditional packaging.

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Michael Scribner

Michael Scribner's path to becoming a wine expert wasn't without its hurdles. Overwhelmed by industry pressures, he battled daily panic attacks but found his way back to balance and passion through perseverance and self-care. Known for his expertise and dedication, Scribner's journey reminds us that even the most experienced sommeliers face challenges. With resilience and support, they can turn adversity into triumph.

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Cristie Norman

Cristie Norman is a dynamic force in the U.S. wine scene, known for her passionate advocacy and charity work. A certified sommelier and entrepreneur, she’s reshaping the industry with her dedication. From discovering her love for wine at 16 to becoming an expert, Norman shines in every role. Check out her YouTube channel, 'Adulting with Alcohol,' for savvy tips and insights on succeeding in the wine world.

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Caroline Styne

Caroline Styne, originally from Los Angeles and educated in Santa Barbara, intended to build a career in the art world but was drawn to restaurants instead. In 1994, she collaborated with Sean MacPherson at Jones in Hollywood, where she met Suzanne Goin. This key encounter led to the creation of their flagship restaurant, Lucques, in 1998. The blend of Suzanne’s culinary expertise and Caroline’s business acumen made them a powerhouse team.

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Sarah Clarke

Sarah Clarke, from Bethesda, Maryland, grew up with a love for food and wine, inspired by trips to France with her father. This passion led her to the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York. After graduating, she dove into the wine world with Joachim Splichal at the Patina Group and later worked with Nancy Silverton, Jose Andres, and Michael Voltaggio. Now the Beverage Director at Mozza Restaurant Group in Los Angeles, Clarke seeks wines that are both balanced and true to their origins

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As we wrap up our exploration of Los Angeles’s top sommeliers, it’s clear that these wine experts are integral to the city’s rich culinary fabric. Their dedication to their craft, combined with their innovative approaches to pairing and service, sets a high bar for the wine scene. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just starting your journey, these sommeliers offer a gateway to new and exciting experiences with every bottle. Cheers to the passion and expertise that make LA’s wine culture truly exceptional!

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