Michael Asimos

Michael Asimos 600x600

Michael Asimos is an entrepreneur who has managed to turn his passion for wine into a highly successful career.  As a native of Portland, OR, he has always demonstrated an exceptional understanding of wines, something that has helped spur his business ventures. Asimos spends a significant amount of time traveling different parts of the world to explore new opportunities and search for exquisite wine varieties for his clients.

The wine expert is also known for his love for jazz music. When he is not focusing on wines, he also likes spending time in travel destinations in Europe and across the Atlantic. This gives him a chance a refresh and take a new look at his ventures. It comes as no surprise that many wine lovers depend on his wine importing and exporting business to discover balanced wines for their own consumption or for sale across the United States.

Given this background, we decided to have a chat with Michael to discuss his professional career, among other things.

What is your hobby?

I have a deep passion for wines and I’m constantly learning about them. Whenever I get a chance, I love sharing everything there is to know about vino!

How did you get started with this hobby? What inspired you?

My passion for wine began many years ago when I was growing up in Oregon. I was exposed to a wide variety of wines and I could not resist but fall in love with the beverage. The passion grew stronger as I got older. This compelled me to invest a lot of time learning about wine. As a result, many people turned to me for advice or information about wine. It became a natural choice for me to start importing and exporting wine.

Tell us what you love about it.

I love that I can find so many opportunities to enjoy my passion right in my own backyard. I get to spend a lot of time exploring opportunities in California, which is a few hours’ drive. I have always been fascinated by the central coast wine country. It is one place that captures my imagination in a phenomenal way. When I visit the area, there is just so much to do that I often forget to relax and enjoy the sights of other parts of California.

Santa Barbara boasts some of the finest Pinot Noirs that can I recommend to anyone. My colleagues always urge me to take a break and visit the local pier, which is magnificent. Some of the restaurants in the area are simply irresistible.

Are there any groups you’re a part of or events that you attend related to your hobby?

Wine tours are a great way to become familiar with wine! A wine tour, in an area like California, can translate to unforgettable moments for tourists. It boasts striking scenery and features some of the most expansive vineyards.

Local regions like Napa Valley provide sophisticated programs and facilities for touring. The procedures and visiting hours vary between regions and to some extent the vineyards. It is also common for wineries to welcome tourists only by appointment, so plan ahead.

Have you had to invest in equipment and if so, please share some of the things you’ve bought?

Do lots of wine, flights all over the world and gorgeous stem glasses count? If so, then yes. Definitely!

Where do you buy most of your supplies?

People ask me that all of the time, “Where do you purchase your wine?” My answer would be all over. I enjoy wine from all regions the globe, to high-end priceless bottles to even premium box wine.  What I am drinking depends on what mood I am in, or what I am blessed to be doing at the time.

Are there any good books for beginners?

Yes, absolutely! There are many books, guides and even apps to check out. I recently finished “What to Drink with What You Eat” by Andre Dornenburg and loved it. Many wine enthusiasts swear by it and I must say I am a big fan myself.

How has this changed your life?

To find your real passion in life, and to be able to make a living doing what you love, truly is priceless. I have had the great privilege of traveling the world, meeting lots of people along the way and of course, sampling the best wine you will ever taste. My adventures have been endless and I hope they continue for many years to come.

What advice do you have for others starting out with this hobby?

Have fun with it! Throw a wine party where everyone brings a bottle to try, pick up a guidebook, travel to a wine tasting near you.  There are numerous inexpensive ways to get started and I think that is the best route to begin. If you need additional tools follow me on Twitter and check out my website. I have many articles that will help.

Are there any other hobbies you have?

I love Jazz! I think it is the most important music genre of all time and spend a lot of time traveling to Jazz festivals. Basically, my perfect day would be listening to Jazz, wine glass in hand.

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