Paired with: Philadelphia Orchestra Concertmaster
Saturday, November 16, 2024
Rafael Peterson is a seasoned professional in the world of hospitality and fine wine, currently lending his expertise to H Mercer Wine and Spirits. With a rich background spanning roles such as Wine Director at Born and Raised, Beverage Director at Bracero Cocina de Raiz, and General Manager/Wine Director at Turquoise Cellars, Rafael has honed his skills in wine selection, staff training, and revenue generation. He holds certifications from the Court of Master Sommeliers and the International Sommelier Guild, reflecting his commitment to excellence in his field. Rafael's career highlights include curating award-winning wine lists, organizing educational events, and pioneering innovative projects like HospitaliTV and the HospitaliTV Wine Club.

Paired with: Dallas Symphony Concertmasters
Saturday, January 11, 2025
Gabriela Gaeta-Ninet, born in Tijuana, Baja California, initially pursued a career in engineering but found her true passion in wine. After transitioning from the specialty coffee world, she discovered her love for oenology, earning prestigious certifications like WSET Level 3 and becoming the first Mexican to achieve the title of "French Wine Scholar with Highest Honors." Mentored by Paolo Paoloni at Montefiori Winery, Gabriela deepened her expertise in viticulture and winemaking. She is now a dedicated advocate for Mexican wines, promoting Baja California’s wine culture and fostering a new generation of wine enthusiasts.

Paired with: Los Angeles Philharmonic Concertmaster
Saturday, February, 8, 2025

Marino Monferrato is the Maître d'hôtel on Gordon Ramsay's hit show Hell's Kitchen. He's served as the restaurant director during many of the series' installments, and currently features on season 21. Before joining the Hell's Kitchen cast, he worked in numerous restaurants, as a general manager, restaurant director, and professional wine taster. At the age of 17, Marino joined Chef Gualtiero Marchesi at his restaurant, which then had three Michelin stars. Since his debut in the industry, he has built an impressive career in London, France, San Francisco, Las Vegas and Los Angeles. Even before his official debut as the maître d', Marino appeared as a guest judge for the Burger Portion Challenge in season 11. Two seasons later, the Hell's Kitchen celeb returned, so he could take on an official restaurant director role.