After spending decades getting up early, Bernie Teyssier finally decided to retire from his career as a federal agent.  What he didn’t see coming was a second career path, quickly followed by a fire that launched him into a third career that he absolutely loves. 

 

Ten years ago, he and his now wife, Barbara, could be seen attending local wine festivals all over the country.  Upon retiring, it seemed a natural transition to pursue the hobby that brought them so much joy.  After studying the origins of different wines and how the grapes are chosen, blended, processed and aged, the Teyssiers opened Vino e’ Vita, a retail wine shop located in the Johnson Center Place on Johnson Avenue. 

 

Vino e’ Vita had over 400 labels represented in the store, including wines from Italy, Spain and of course, California.  The store was a huge success, hosting local wine tastings and showcasing the owner’s talent for food and wine pairings. It created an atmosphere usually found in a much larger city.  The thrill of doing what they loved made the transition to retirement seamless, until April 17, 2013. That night, a fire destroyed the entire complex in which Vino e’ Vita was housed, rendering rebuilding an option that proved to be overwhelming.

 

In the process of considering whether or not to relocate, Teyssier took a creative approach to sharing his passion while not being tied down to a job with set hours and locations.  After traveling the world tasting wines from various regions, it was his specialization in Italian wines that ultimately allowed him to pursue his current position as a wine sommelier, certified by the International Wine Guild.

 

As a sommelier, he uses his practical experience to consult with individuals and businesses. Each month, he and Chef Pamela Stevens of Mia Margherita work together to perfectly pair food and wine options to offer at their monthly wine tastings.  The selections are often not part of the regular menu and give patrons the opportunity to try unique pairings at an affordable price. 

 

The home-based service business that Teyssier has initiated caters to private parties, corporate events, and restaurant consultations, educating people all about wine, including presentational protocol, tasting procedures, the history of the wineries and the combination of ingredients and processes that create the flavor.

 

As a sommelier, Teyssier follows the latest trends and continues to develop his skills, which sometimes requires additional excursions abroad or to California.  He and his wife particularly enjoy Sonoma County’s authentic feel, noting the friendly locals and the down-to-earth atmosphere. 

 

Among his many talents, the one thing he cannot do is sell wine.  He is considered a broker, providing the consulting service, but must have an establishment hosting his services that is willing to actually sell the wine.  This distinction makes it easy for him to remain objective in his recommendations, putting the flavors and experiences as a top priority.

 

While Teyssier says everyone has the ability to build palate talent, professionals can enhance the process by helping people identify what flavors go together and what ingredients heighten the flavors.  At local wine tastings, he is available to answer questions and give advice on wines of all prices, noting that many of his favorites are quite affordable. 

 

Teyssier is currently available for corporate, personal or holiday events and more information about his services can be found on the Vino e’ Vita Facebook Page.