Jeffrey is an Associate Professor of Spanish at Northwestern University. He is currently writing Liquid Identities: Bottling the Nation, which explores Spanish national identity through the wines the country produces. He is the knowledge anchor of our organization and holds the WSET Level 2 Award in Wines, Spanish Wine Scholar, Cava Educator, and Certified Sherry Wine Specialist certifications.

Jeffrey’s Glass:
2000 Urbina Gran Reserva (DOCa Rioja)

With his extensive experience in fintech, nonprofit work, and international business, Tim brings a unique perspective to the table. Beyond his professional endeavors, Tim is a true renaissance man. He's a passionate world traveler, exploring different cultures and regions, which enriches his understanding of diverse audiences. Tim has an extensive love and knowledge of the world of wine and is a charismatic host — helping provide a consistent first class experience for our events.

Tim’s Glass:
2020 Bodegas Alto Moncayo (D.O. Campo de Borja)

Dani began her wine journey in the restaurant world working for the Bartolotta Restaurant Group before spending a few years running wine programs. She passed her Certified Sommelier exam in 2019 and her WSET Level 3 with Merit in November of 2022. Currently, she is studying to earn her Italian Wine Scholar certification while working in beverage distribution around downtown Milwaukee. She recently resurrected a Blind Tasting group from pre-Covid days with around 25 other industry professionals. She has developed a deep passion for hospitality, relationship-building, and eduction throughout her roles. Dani’s free time involves dog rescue, gardening, and staying active. If she is not drinking wine, she will most definitely have tequila or mezcal!

Dani's Glass:
Borgogno Timarosso Derthona Colli Tortonesi (Colli Tortonesi Timorasso DOC)

Dr. Travis Reed is a veterinarian and board-certified specialist in small animal surgery. His taste for wine started over 15 years ago. He developed a deeper appreciation and interest in the complexities of wine after moving to Milwaukee in 2015 and attending wine tastings at Thief Wine Shop & Bar in the Milwaukee Public Market. He holds the WSET Level 2 Award in Wines (with distinction) and the French Wine Scholar certification. 

Travis's Glass: 2022 Hugel & Fils Gentil (Alsace AOC)

Stephanie is a recent transplant to Milwaukee by way of Arizona. She was introduced to the world of wine during her pharmacy training more than 20 years ago, and she's been eager to help others learn to appreciate wine ever since. She has traveled to many foreign and domestic wine making regions and has hosted numerous wine tasting events at her home. She is thrilled to be a part of Milwaukee Wine Academy and hopes to continue to share her passion for wine with others especially those who might initially perceive wine to be intimidating or elitist. 

Stephanie's Glass:

2015 Tenuta dell’Ornelia Bolgheri Superiore (Bolgheri Superiore DOC)