#25. In this episode, we're joined by Matt Conway, the charismatic owner, operator, and sommelier of the renowned Tippling House nestled in the heart of Charleston, South Carolina. Alongside his delightful partner-in-crime, Carissa Hernandez, Matt has created a haven for those who appreciate the finer aspects of life's libations.

Under the wing of the late Chef Gray Kunz, Matt honed his craft at Café Gray in the Time Warner Center from 2004 to 2007. This eventually led him to to Restaurant Marc Forgione, where he wore multiple hats – GM, beverage director, and eventually a partner. Matt has collaborated with the world-famous cellers at Taillevent in Paris and has been bestowed the honor of being among Zagat's "30 Under 30" and a Star Chefs recognized "Rising Star Sommelier."

Matthew's journey is one marked by consistent acclaim and notable presence at some of the most distinguished wine events. His finely tuned palate and comprehensive knowledge have made him a sought-after sommelier at premier gatherings like La Paulée and La Fête du Champagne. Today, Matthew Conway's legacy shines brightly as a partner at La Tablée. This establishment stands as a testament to his commitment and expertise, with a special focus on the captivating allure of the Northern Rhône Valley.

Where to find Matt Conway: 

• Instagram

Where to find host Josh Sharkey:

• Instagram
• LinkedIn

In this episode, we cover:

(2:26) How Matt became a sommelier
(7:13) Working with Josh at Cafe Grey
(11:10) Building relationships with producers
(14:51) What makes a great sommelier
(21:04) Empathy and inclusion when choosing wine
(25:19) What’s in the future for sommeliers?
(31:31) Essential skills for a successful sommelier
(33:13) Working at Restaurant Marc Forgione
(35:19) Why Matt moved to Charleston
(38:46) Building a company culture with work/life balance
(44:06) Could Matt be successful with Tippling House in NYC?
(49:16) New York life versus Charleston life