The Story of Wine Podcast - Discover the People & Stories Behind Every Glass
The Story of Wine Podcast offers an insider's look into the world of wine and spirits through conversations with the people and producers shaping today's food and drink culture. From Master Sommeliers and Masters of Wine to acclaimed writers, winemakers, and growers behind some of the world's most celebrated bottles, host Billy Galanko brings you thoughtful stories and expert insights.
Whether you're a passionate enthusiast or work in the industry, you'll enjoy learning more about the wines you love while gaining exclusive access to a wide range of voices and perspectives from across the wine world.
Follow Billy on Instagram @billygalanko_wine_nerd for special bottles and behind the scenes clips. For partnership inquiries or guest suggestions, email Billy at billy@sommeliermedia.com.
The Story of Wine Podcast - Discover the People & Stories Behind Every Glass
James Beard Nominee Cristie Norman on Building a Las Vegas Wine Program & Large Format Icons
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In this episode of the Vint Podcast, we sit down with Cristie Norman, the lead sommelier at Delilah in the Wynn Las Vegas and a 2024 James Beard Award nominee. Cristie shares how she built one of the most exciting luxury wine programs in Las Vegas, with a focus on large format Bordeaux, Champagne, and rare back-vintage bottles. She also discusses her early journey in wine, her role in co-founding the United Sommeliers Foundation, and the culture shift she experienced moving from LA to Vegas.
Cristie offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to serve high-roller guests in a modern supper club setting—where six-liter bottles of Opus One and vintage Dom Pérignon are the norm. She walks us through how her team manages a massive inventory, executes top-level bottle service, and delivers a wine experience that balances club energy with world-class hospitality. Cristie also shares her top tips for decanting, preserving wine, and sourcing the best wines from birth-year vintages.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to the Vint Wine Podcast
01:19 Upcoming Bordeaux Trip and Wine Tasting Insights
04:52 2024 Bordeaux Vintage and Market Trends
07:30 Challenges and Dynamics of En Primeur System
10:03 Introducing Guest: Cristie Norman
14:27 Crristie Norman's Journey and Achievements
17:56 Inside Delilah: A Modern Supper Club Experience
31:42 Architectural Wonders and Wine Culture in Las Vegas
32:51 Challenges of the Culinary Union
35:39 Building a Motivated Wine Team
38:19 Efficient Wine Service Techniques
41:05 Managing Large Wine Formats
49:33 Wine Preservation Tips and Tools
53:29 Vintage Wine Recommendations and Final Thoughts
The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com.
Cheers!
