2019 Food and Wine Magazine “Sommelier of the Year” Erik Segelbaum has worked in hospitality for over 30 years.
After 10 years as a fine dining chef, Erik transitioned to FOH. His experience set includes head Sommelier of MV The World, the largest private residential yacht at sea, Corporate Wine Director for Schwartz Brothers Restaurants and Corporate Beverage Director for Starr Restaurants, where he oversaw a $100+ million/year beverage program and opened over 20 properties including Le Coucou voted James Beard best new restaurant and achieved a Michelin Star.
Erik is a CMS Advanced Sommelier, Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW) and a Wine and Spirits Locations Specialist (with distinction) for both Port and Champagne. Erik is journalist and editor for both consumer and trade publications, including Somm Journal, Tasting Panel, Food and Wine Magazine, Wine Spectator, Wine Enthusiast, and more.
Erik Co-owns SWIG Partners, a beverage alcohol import and distribution agency and is the Vice President of the United Sommeliers Foundation, a charity providing emergency financial assistance to wine professionals in critical need. In 2025 he is launching Certo -luxury RTD cocktails made on the Amalfi Coast.