Jarad Slipp, MS is the owner of Knead Wine, a retail wine and pizza shop as well as Tremolo Bar in Middleburg, Virginia. Prior to starting his own ventures, Slipp was the Estate Director at RdV Vineyards in Delaplane, VA a boutique winery in the foothills of the Blueridge Mountains that rivals the best of Napa and Bordeaux. In a former life he was the Restaurant Director at several notable Washington DC, and NYC restaurants, including CityZen, Fiamma, Nectar, and Tahoga. Jarad earned his Master Sommelier Diploma in May 2014.

 

A former graduate of the Culinary Institute of America as well as ICIF in Italy he’s a decent cook too. When not working, he can typically be found endeavoring in activities to shorten his life like diving, heli-skiing and skydiving.

 

Where are you working currently and how has being a MS supported you in your current role?

Although I thought I left the restaurant world behind years ago, I now find myself owning a couple along with a retail wine shop all in Northern Virginia.

 

Where were you working when you passed?

I had just left my restaurant life and had recently started as the Estate Director for RdV Vineyards. The new environment and encouragement certainly helped.

 

What made you want to become an MS?

Initially as a former Boy Scout I was just looking for another “merit badge”. But at my intro class I had one of the best teachers I’ve had in Doug Frost. Wine was taught it in such a way that it could have been quantum mechanics but you just got it. It was fun and I was hooked.

 

What advice do you give those who are pursuing certification?

One – you don’t need certification. There’s plenty of bad-ass wine professionals without pins. Two – If you do seek certification at whatever level, make sure you’re doing it for the right reasons. It may get you an interview but doesn’t guaranty the job. Do it for yourself, for the people you’ll met, for the friends you’ll make, for the experiences you’ll have.

 

What is your desert island wine, or what wines/beverages are you currently excited about?

Miller Lite, Final Answer.