Randi W.
Wine Judge
Member Since 2025
What is your most memorable wine or wine and food experience?
My most memorable wine experience took place during a family holiday in Tuscany. We had a private tour guide drive us through the picturesque Tuscan countryside, allowing us to visit several wineries for tastings, guided tours, and a leisurely lunch. The Tuscan countryside was stunning, with rolling hills and charming vineyards. Our tour included visits to three wineries, each offering a unique atmosphere and background.
What stood out most to me was the genuine love and passion shown by all the family-owned wineries we visited. At one winery, we enjoyed a classic, rustic Italian lunch outdoors. The warm, welcoming atmosphere was a wonderful, memorable experience. Of course, the tastings and lunch included generous amounts of food and wine, specifically Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.
What wines have you always wanted to try but haven’t? What is your favorite vineyard? Region?
There are many wines I haven’t tried but would love to, but one that stands out for me is Penfolds Grange Shiraz, specifically the 2008 or 2012 vintages, although I’m open to any vintage. This Australian Shiraz is high on my list.
My favourite wine region is the Rhône Valley in France. All my favourite grape varieties are grown there. My favourite appellations include Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Côte-Rôtie, Gigondas, Condrieu, and Hermitage. Another favourite of mine is the Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines from Oregon, especially the Willamette Valley. The Russian River Valley in Sonoma, California, also produces some stunning Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and sparkling wines.
What event or experience started your journey in wine?
My wine journey started about 30 years ago during what I call my “wine epiphany.” My husband and I were in Seattle for a weekend getaway. We visited a wonderful Pacific Northwest restaurant called Ray’s Boathouse. My husband ordered a bottle of Châteauneuf-du-Pape to enjoy with our dinner. This was the bottle that made me realize how extraordinary wine can be. When I first tasted it, I was captivated by the fragrant aromas and rich flavours, its beautiful mouthfeel, and balance. It felt as if I were in heaven drinking that bottle of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and that’s when I decided I wanted to elevate my enjoyment of wine and began appreciating it more, learning, experiencing, and educating myself about it.