There are not many people in the world who love wine as much as Michael Asimos. He loves it so much he has made a career out of it as a Wine Wholesaler and Exporter. His own personal website is pretty much dedicated to his favorite wines and wine hotspots around the globe. We recently had the chance to interview the man in hopes of helping readers learn a thing or two about the interesting life he leads.
What initially attracted you to the wine business?
My family was into wine, and I’d be lying if I didn’t sneak a taste or two as a youngster. I just like the wine business and the way it ties in so nicely with traveling around the world. I’ve been able to meet so many interesting people around the world because of their passion for wine. There is a little bit of culture in every pocket of the world, and the way they do wine is very intriguing overall. The wine business is a great way to learn about other cultures.
What is one trait that you think has made you so successful in the wine business?
“One of the most unique places my job has taken me is to the Cape vineyards in #CapeTown, South Africa. The @WaterkloofWines is probably one of my favorites.” See what else I shared with @travelhymnsquad in the interview below. https://t.co/Xm39e5JV5Y pic.twitter.com/rFnn1t50lk
— Mike Asimos (@mike_asimos) November 12, 2018
Being open minded. There are some places in the world that are pretty remote, but produce great wine. Everyone knows about the hotspots, but I’m someone who cares just as much about finding those places that are often overlooked. Call me a fan of wine underdogs, if you will. It can just get boring only trying a few different types of wines, or traveling to the same five or so places all the time.
If you could only have one glass of wine for the rest of your life, what would it be?
That’s a question that is nearly impossible the answer for me. It really depends on the time of year, and even the time of day. I will say though that when I heard this question, I instantly thought of my favorite summer wine, which is La Crema Chardonnay. It’s nothing too crazy or fancy, but it pairs great with light eats. I like the apple and melon flavor with just enough vanilla in it to make it unique.
If you had to classify yourself as a red wine or white wine guy, what would you chose?
Despite my answer to the last question, I’d say I probably drink more red wine than white wine throughout the year. It just seems to pair better with my diet. I do like both types of wine though. A lot of people seem to be anti- one or the other. To me, there is a time and a place for most. White wines are usually my go-to when it is warm outside, whereas red wine is my choice during colder months, or dinners more often than not.
What is the hardest thing about being in the wine business?
It can be pretty easy to get caught up in the wine business and spend money that just isn’t there. Sometimes I look at certain wines and see the price tag and just shake my head. I know how much certain wines are really worth, and sometimes, they just try to rip people off.
I always tell people who ask me about wine to stay within their means. Some people will just buy a wine they know nothing about because it is a little bit more expensive. That’s just stupid in my opinion. Do your research beforehand, especially with so many people carrying around a smartphone to look up reviews.
Lastly, share one fun fact that no one knows about you.
I talk about jazz music a lot on my own website, but I actually like all types of music in general. To me, live music and wine pair as well together as a great meal. It’s just a great overall way to sit back, relax and enjoy life in general.
Want to connect with Mike?
Visit his website at michaelasimos.com, or add him on https://www.facebook.com/Mike-Asimos-1067030026689544/ or https://twitter.com/mike_asimos for more information.