Valentin Raffali

1 - You're handed a wine list, what do you do?

I have no pretensions when it comes to wine, although I love it a lot. I rarely go to restaurants; I decline the wine list, preferring to explain what I like precisely and trust the sommelier. If I decide to go to a restaurant, then I indulge and listen to the sommelier.

2 - How do you know the wine you're drinking is good?

That's a good question. I know I can easily be influenced by the quality of the sommelier. Because I've had the chance to taste often, I know intuitively when something tastes good. I often look for a Loire white to start; I aim to refresh my palate and seek elegance.

3 - What is something fascinating you’ve been told over lunch?

I can't mention the name of this person or give details, but after that conversation, my visa to the United States was confirmed, and I was able to settle in New York.

4 - In whose company do you most enjoy drinking wine?

I always choose company first and then wine. I enjoy small gatherings, and I appreciate great bottles with Harry Cummins; we share the same lexicon, and I always learn from his words.

5 - Can you describe your ideal combination of wine, music, and setting?

Lower East Side, Ten Bells, Lou Reed,

I’m tired, It’s soon midnight we don’t want to leave, a dying candle, I can barely see my friend the place is dark, Marlboro Red in the back pocket, a beautiful red from Julie Balagny.

6 - What sort of food would you add to the equation?

Food comes after, on my way home, a dollar bad hot dog.

7 - What is the most memorable bottle of wine you’ve drank?

I don’t remember, to be honest, but I remember loving my life and the wine at El Kano a good time ago. It was my first real introduction to Spanish Jerez, my true love.

8 - Where did you drink it?

Basque Country.

9 - Is there a characteristic you look for in a wine and in a friend?

I seek loyalty, elegance, and above all, discretion. I don’t like labels; I don’t like loudness.

10 - What is your approach to drinking?

I choose carefully what I drink; I like to trust and learn. It's been a long time since I've been drunk. I quickly get disgusted; I never finish my glasses.

11 - Do you apply this approach in other aspects of life?

More or less; I especially enjoy watching my friends enjoy themselves; it contributes to my own enjoyment.

12 - What shall we open next?

Enough wine and talk let’s drink a cold Modelo.