Sommeliers

Our Sommelier Staff has over 70 years of combined experience in viticulture and the art and history of winemaking.  Their knowledge and service is impeccable.  Each sommelier is as diverse as their love of wines, yet all have the same goal – to ensure guests at The Firehouse have the most memorable experience.  Whether it is learning more about wine at Wine Tasting Tuesdays, discussing wines with winemakers as they lead guests through a  seven-course meal specially created for a Winemaker Dinner, or simply enjoying a selection personally hand-picked to accompany a meal, The Firehouse sommeliers are here to serve you.  The Sommelier Selections are some of their favorites.  Enjoy!

Frank Carney ~ Special Events Director & Sommelier  “I have a deep admiration for the wines of California.  The opportunity to enjoy such complex and diversified wines is extraordinary. Each region is a sheer joy to explore and taste.  Enjoy your travels.”  —Frank

Paul Marsh ~ Assistant Wine Buyer &  Certified Sommelier  “I have a fondness for Spanish reds with their power, finesse and complexity. I always love to bring an outside-the-box approach when it comes to pairing our cuisine.” —Paul

Brian Mayer ~ Bartender & Certified Sommelier  “I have a deep appreciation for Sonoma Coast and Russian River pinot noirs. An expressive combination of Burgundian terrior and extracted California fruit.” —Brian

Born and raised in Richfield, Wisconsin, Brian Mayer studied accounting and business management at the University of Wisconsin, Stevens Point and Stratton Business College before moving to Nevada and taking up bartending at the age of 24. Brian, an independent free spirit who enjoys building computers, participating in sports, cooking and traveling, got his start as a barback and bartender at Caesar’s Tahoe on the Nevada state line. Brian left Caesar’s Tahoe in 1997 to become the assistant food & beverage manager and bartender for Hornblower Cruises & Events in South Lake Tahoe, where he assisted in planning and arranging large-scale events. Most recently, Brian worked as a bartender for Harrah’s Entertainment from 2001-04 and Tunel 21 in Sacramento. Brian joined The Firehouse team in 2004 as a bartender, and has since worked his way up to night bartender and sommelier. In 2009 he passed the introductory course of the Master Court of Sommeliers and in June 2011 earned his Certified Sommelier certification from The Court of Master Sommeliers.

Mario Ortiz ~ General Manager, Wine Director & Sommelier  “My passion for wine is sincere. I hope you will enjoy some of my favorites, or you will discover one that will make your dining with us a memorable experience.” —Mario