Julie Garton – Crafting World-Class Wine Lists and Building a Career in Hospitality

In this episode, I sit down with Julie Garton, a sommelier and hospitality professional, to discuss her journey in the wine and hospitality industry. Jules shares her experiences from studying film theory to working across across the world, including in Asia, Australia, and the UK, ultimately landing in Toronto. She emphasizes the importance of creating a wine list that benefits the restaurant and pleases the guests, rather than solely reflecting personal preferences. Jules also highlights the impact of the Michelin guide on the restaurant scene in Ontario and the evolving expectations around wine service. Additionally, she talks about her recent hands-on experience during a wine harvest in Italy, the significance of building trust with guests, mentorship in the wine industry, and future aspirations. This episode is a deep dive into the intricacies of being a sommelier and the pivotal role of hospitality in creating memorable dining experiences.Julie Garton – Crafting World-Class Wine Lists and Building a Career in Hospitality00:38 Introduction to the Episode01:34 Julie Garten's Journey into Wine and Hospitality03:44 Experiences in Australia and the UK08:38 Returning to Toronto and Career Growth10:24 Impact of the Michelin Guide on Ontario's Restaurant Scene15:08 Crafting a Memorable Wine Experience26:07 Challenges of Pairing Wines with Elaborate Menus26:26 Exploring Wine Recommendations for Asian Cuisines27:51 Building a Great Wine List: Key Considerations29:24 Balancing Value and Profit in Wine Lists31:30 Personal Wine Preferences and Trends33:19 Hands-On Wine Making Experience in Italy38:55 The Importance of Mentorship in the Wine Industry41:08 The Value of Wine Tasting Skills for Sommeliers43:43 Keeping the Passion for Wine Alive45:43 Challenges and Future Projects in the Wine Industry46:48 Reviving Hospitality in the Restaurant Industry49:22 Conclusion and Upcoming InterviewsBooks Referenced: Native Wine Grapes of Italy  - Ian D'Agata    Italy’s Native Wine Grape Terroirs  - Ian D'Agata The Grapes and Wine of Italy - Ian D'Agata  🙌 Enjoyed the episode?Follow, rate, and review Tasting Notes Toronto on your favorite podcast platform — it really helps others discover the show. And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Champagne: Cork Pop and Pour by ultradust -- https://freesound.org/s/166923/ -- License: Attribution 4.0