GuildSomm International is a nonprofit membership organization for wine, spirits, and beverage professionals and aficionados. We create and deliver the most accurate, comprehensive, and accessible educational content in support of the global beverage community. GuildSomm connects its over 9,000 members with a range of content on GuildSomm.com and through classes, events, videos, and a popular podcast.
Feature articles, podcasts, and videos are publicly available and cover varied topics in the world of wine. For members, we have additional in-depth educational materials, forums for discussion, events, and much more.
You can also find us on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Vimeo, and YouTube.
Jenny Hemmer
Executive Director
After beginning her wine career in retail sales, Jenny spent over 18 years with E. & J. Gallo Winery, working in a range of roles that included sales management, recruiting, and public relations. Most recently, she led Gallo’s education programs, serving employees, distributors, and customers. She is a WSET Diploma candidate as well as a Certified Sommelier, Certified Wine Educator, and Certified Specialist of Spirits. Jenny lives in Kansas City.
Chris Tanghe, MS
Education Director
Chris began his career in the kitchen, but inspired by front-of-house hospitality, he transitioned into wine. After working in restaurants across the country, Chris passed the MS exam in 2013. Since 2017, he has spearheaded masterclasses and contributed content as GuildSomm's chief instructor. He now serves as education director.
Stacy Ladenburger
Editor & Innovation Manager
After working in communications, editorial, and customer service roles in the nonprofit and food tech sectors, Stacy made her way into the wine industry through a stint at Ordinaire Wine Bar in Oakland, CA. As GuildSomm's editor, she oversees editorial processes and all stages of content development. Stacy also guides internal and external operations and manages key projects.
Mackenzie Morgan
Communications & Events Specialist
Inspired by a stint of culinary school in Milan, Mackenzie began her wine career in 2017. Working in wine retail in North Carolina, she was able to combine her love of both wine and digital marketing. Mackenzie is a current WSET Diploma candidate. She coordinates GuildSomm events, member communication, and social media.
Gray Randolph, Chair
Executive Vice President
Colliers International
Alongside work as a commercial real estate investor and consultant, Gray is vintner at Gray Randolph Wines in Napa Valley. He previously served as the president of Virginia's Make-A-Wish Foundation and Big Brothers Big Sisters, and the vice president of the Chesapeake Bay Wine Classic Foundation. Gray is a Certified Sommelier and a French Wine Scholar.
Andrew McNamara, MS
President
Ace Wine and Spirits, LLC
Andy became a Master Sommelier in 2007. Prior to launching Ace Wine and Spirits, he was the vice president of wine development for Breakthru Beverage Group.
Jason Caballero, Vice Chair
Wine Director
Wrigley Mansion
Jason is wine director for the Wrigley Mansion, a historic Arizona landmark, where he oversees a large, eclectic wine list and multiple restaurant and bar concepts.
Yvonne Cheung
Group Director of Wine & Director of Restaurants at The Upper House
Swire Hotels
Yvonne has worked for Swire Hotels since 2010, when she was hired to build the wine program for their flagship Hong Kong property, The Upper House.
Daniela Frison
Founder & Principal
Le Vin Nécessaire
Dani is the founder of Le Vin Nécessaire, a wine consulting business that offers its clients personalized shopping and cellaring services as well as education.
Lydia Harrison, MW
Head of Education & Events
WSET School London
Lydia is the head of education and events at WSET School London, where she oversees the Level 1–3 qualifications and a diverse program of events. She became a Master of Wine in 2019.
Trae Taylor
Controller of Heitz Cellars & Brendel
Lawrence Wine Estates
Trae is a certified public accountant and works for Lawrence Wine Estates as the controller of Napa Valley wineries Heitz Cellars and Brendel. He holds the WSET Level 2 certification.
Kim Wood, Vice Chair
Southwest Regional Manager
Wilson Daniels
Kim is the southwest regional manager for Wilson Daniels. Prior to working in distribution, Kim trained as a sommelier and was wine director for Aria Resort & Casino in Las Vegas.