GuildSomm is a nonprofit international membership organization for wine professionals that elevates the wine and beverage community through industry education.
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.
Christine Sayre
CFO & Membership Director
Leveraging her background in software and business intelligence, Christine manages GuildSomm's finances, monitors analytics, provides member services, and offers HR and other key support for the team. She was one of GuildSomm's earliest employees, joining in 2010.
Stacy Ladenburger
Director of Operations & Editor
After working in the nonprofit and food tech sectors, Stacy made her way into the wine industry through a stint at Oakland's Ordinaire Wine Bar. She guides GuildSomm's internal and external operations, manages member communication, oversees content development, and edits the site.
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.
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, Vice Chair
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
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
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.