GET TO KNOW ME

Do you want to know more about me? Then you have come to the right place.

If you have any questions, you can contact me at any time.

My History

Dustin's career in hospitality spans over two decades, during which he has held roles across food and beverage, golf, and leadership. Even when he was a golf pro, Dustin always felt a strong pull toward teaching and inspiring those around him. His childhood, spent in various countries, fostered connections with people from diverse backgrounds, all this shaped his competitive spirit that continues to drive him today.

His passion for food and hospitality can be traced back to his grandmother, a woman who always had an open seat at her table and could out-cook any Michelin-star chef using only her hands to measure ingredients. From her, Dustin learned the importance of hospitality not only as an art form but the spirit behind it, and the value of truly caring for those around you.

Dustin's real calling came when he "discovered" wine. Though he had been surrounded by it throughout his career, he initially saw himself as a beer guy. However, a mentor encouraged him to pursue the path of sommelier, and though he was hesitant at first, the world of wine soon captivated him. His journey quickly accelerated, and he made a name for himself within the wine community.

In January 2023, Dustin passed the introductory level of the Court of Master Sommeliers and launched his “edutainment” wine podcast, which has since been downloaded in over 30 countries. That same year, he earned his first Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for his wine program in South Carolina.

By the spring of 2024, Dustin had competed in the Sonoma Wine Quiz, the Australian Wine Competition, and was a finalist in the Ruinart Somm Challenge. He also earned his second Wine Spectator Award at a new establishment. On July 30, 2024, he passed the Certified Sommelier Exam on his first attempt, and by December 2024, he was selected as an Advanced Sommelier candidate for 2025 on his first attempt.

 Dustin's hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed. He has been nominated and is a finalist for "Best Sommelier in Charleston 2025."

 Yet, despite all his professional accolades, Dustin considers his greatest achievement to be teaching and inspiring others.

Accolades

CERTIFICATIONS

2023
Introductory Sommelier Court of Master Sommeliers

2024
Certified Sommelier Court of Master Sommeliers

2025
Advance Sommelier Candidate Court of Master Sommeliers

Servsafe and TIPS certified

EXPERIENCE

2006-2011
Western Carolina University Hospitality and Tourism and Leadership studies

2023, 2024
Wine Spectator Award of Excellence

I have over 2 decades in leadership positions from front of house manager, wine club director, wine director, to General Manager and much more.

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YOU CAN CONTACT ME HERE

E-mail: TheDuckVine@gmail.com

Location: Charleston, SC

Emails will be responded to within 24 hours.

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