40 Years a Master Sommelier - Celebrating Richard Dean

On October 13th, 1975, Richard Dean became one of America’s first Master Sommeliers. Forty years later, he still works the floor at Taj Hotel Group’s Campton Place, albeit part time. That is quite an accomplishment for a Master Sommelier, many of whom leave the floor to take high-paying jobs in wine sales and to enjoy a more “normal” schedule with nights and weekends off.

I first met Richard while living in Honolulu. He was an inspiration and true friend then as he is now. Aside from his amazing work ethic and humility, he is incredibly generous, always offering to help a friend in need. Many in the Sommelier community owe him a debt of gratitude, if not cold hard cash. He became one of Manhattan’s elite Sommelier during his tenure at The Mark, getting rave reviews for his “speed dating” wine nights, and he continues to oversee a stellar lineup of winemaker dinners at Campton Place here in San Francisco.

On November 1, 2017, I will celebrate 20 years as a Master Sommelier. Dear Richard, I am halfway there!