In a captivating episode of the Urban Wine Club podcast, Ari Kalos and Fotios Stamos sit down with the esteemed Howie Rubin, a true luminary in the world of wine, boasting an impressive 50-year career. Rubin’s narrative unfolds, beginning with his formative years at the groundbreaking London Wine Bar in San Francisco, widely recognized as America’s first wine bar. He vividly describes the pioneering atmosphere, where he immersed himself in the nascent art of wines by the glass and the then-novel concept of winemaker dinners.
The conversation delves into Rubin’s transformative experiences in Napa Valley, where he participated in the demanding yet rewarding grape harvests, gaining invaluable firsthand knowledge of the intricate winemaking process. He then recounts his time as a sommelier at the luxurious Breakers in Palm Beach, a period marked by encounters with celebrities and the expansion of his expertise in European wines.
A significant portion of the interview is dedicated to his remarkable 43-year tenure at Bauer Wine & Spirits in Boston. Rubin provides a fascinating account of the city’s evolving wine culture, painting a picture of the diverse clientele and the dynamic changes he witnessed. He reflects on the challenges facing the modern wine industry, particularly the need to engage younger generations and adapt to the ever-shifting market landscape.
Rubin’s current role as Beverage Director at Vin Fromage in Wenham is also explored, highlighting the unique community-centric approach of the wine shop. He emphasizes the paramount importance of personal connections and relationships in the wine business, sharing anecdotes and insights gleaned from his extensive experience. The episode concludes with Rubin offering practical advice on wine selection, drawing upon his vast knowledge and passion for the subject. Throughout the interview, Rubin’s deep-seated love for wine and his unwavering belief in the power of human connection resonate, making for an engaging and informative listening experience.
