My first week at Row Eleven (by Marco Rafanelli).

I’ve been selling wine for over 20 years. While I’ve always sold good wine, and many even great wines, I’ve been overwhelmed by the response I have gotten since joining the Row Eleven team just a week ago.

I first tasted the Santa Maria Pinot Noir on a trip to The Atlantis on Paradise Island in the Bahamas. Someone at our dinner table who was familiar with the wine suggested it. After a glass, or maybe three, my fiancée told me that we had to have this Pinot at our wedding only weeks after. When we got home, I was put in touch with Craig Boggs, who helped to make that happen. Needless to say, not only was the wine was a huge hit at the wedding, but I’ve also recently joined the company.

We showcased the line-up including the Stratton Lummis at a tasting for Long Island restaurateurs this Monday evening. Everyone was really impressed. The approachability and finesse of the Vinas 3; the earthy, smoky, beautifully balanced Santa Maria; the luscious cherry and spicy notes in the Russian River; and the big, rich chocolate and red fruit flavors of the Stratton Lummis Cabernet Sauvignon. Our table was buzzing all night.
If this is only my first week, I’m sure to have many more great stories to tell. I’ll keep you posted…

Marco Rafanelli