John, Thief of Wine

John’s passion for wine comes from his enjoyment of wine’s beautiful ability to evoke a different emotion and experience for each person. A degree in viticulture was just the first step he took into the world of wine. He has held several positions in the wine industry as Head Sommelier for the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn. He is also known as an avid wine judge and a radio talk show host at KSVY Sonoma.

John has over 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry. He created Burdick Vineyard Tours in 2000 an exclusive and specialized Private Wine Tour Company focusing on the hidden gems of Sonoma and Napa. From working in the vineyards and wineries to becoming a Certified Sommelier from the Court of Masters, John brings not only his knowledge and ardor, but also a humble open mind knowing that there is always something new to learn about the craft.

Though his knowledge involves wines from around the world, his love and appreciation of Northern California’s Wine County is expressed through his close relationships with local artisan producers from Sonoma and Napa that are often hard to find wines with low case productions. In 2011, John and his wife Chef Catherine Venturini Burdick turned her Olive & Vine cafe into a well known fine dining Glen Ellen restaurant. In the restaurant, John’s selective wine list of low case produced wines has been awarded the Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence. ​In 2016, John & Catherine closed their Glen Ellen location to focus on BVT Wine Experience and Cuvée Wine Country Events their Catering Company.

Together they create superb itineraries for their guests' entire stay while in Wine Country. From cooking classes by Catherine to hot air balloon vistas and high end spa pampering to grape stomping, John is able to bring his clients a complete experience custom to their desires. He not only brings his sommelier palate to design a custom wine list for parties, but also the many trusted relationships he has garnered over the years to Cuvée Wine Country Events

Driven by the promise of legendary wines, John roams the Wine Country’s back roads in search of the finest wines ready to be released, uncorked and to be discovered. When he finds these rare gems he will purchase a few bottles for his exclusive Thief of Wine Society