Interview with Jose Valverde- Wine Steward at Barcelona Stamford
Do you have a favorite wine at Barcelona? In general?
Cims de Porrera Classic and Priorat
What got you interested in working with wine?
Our Wine & Spirits Director, Gretchen Thomas. She knew before I did that I would love working with wine and she got me interested.
How do you stay up to date with your wine education outside of working with Gretchen?
I’m in a diploma program at the International Wine Program.
What is your favorite memory working at Barcelona?
All my memories working with our old General Manager, Herman Allenson.
What inspires you?
Teaching people how to be excited about wine.
Do you prefer to drink wine outside of work or you choose beer or cocktails?
Cocktails. I enjoy having wine with food.
What is your favorite or the most innovative pairing of wine and food?
Our stuffed dates wrapped in bacon paired with Sherry.
Where have you traveled that inspires your love of wine? What country is your favorite wine made?
Spain and Catalonia.
How do you help educate people at the restaurant with no prior wine experience?
Often through tastings or just talking with them explaining the wines and grapes and answering questions people have.
If you had to recommend one bottle off of the Barcelona wine list what would it be?
Priorat or any Garnacha based wines.
Now let’s switch gears and get to know you more…
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
Trust your gut. That has led me down the right path.
What is your biggest pet peeve?
When people aren’t interested in anything. People need to find something that moves them.
What is the last song you were listening to on your iPod?
I listen to a lot of international music. The last song was Portuguese Fado by Mariza
What is the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?
I came to America when I was 22 and never left.
Where is your favorite vacation spot?
Greece.
Who is your role model?
In my personal life it’s my mom. In my professional life it’s Gretchen Thomas because I admire how she does what she does. She has such strength that comes through in subtle ways.
Where is your dream place to live?
New York City
What would you do with an entire year off?
Live in France and Spain at a winery.
Describe your personal style?
Casual and elegant. I most comfortable in jeans and a button down.