Caleb Ganzer
Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels | New York
February 2019
Caleb Ganzer got his first taste of hospitality while working as a server at Italian restaurants during his college days at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He studied abroad in Paris his senior year and later began learning about wine as front of house manager at Flute Champagne Lounge. This experience lead Ganzer to move to New York City to pursue a career in wine after he graduated in 2009.
For his first official sommelier position, Ganzer submerged himself in the Dinex Group at DB Bistro Moderne, followed by posts at DBGB and Daniel. From Boulud to Humm, in 2013, he became a sommelier at three Michelin-starred Eleven Madison Park. Two years later, he seized the opportunity to become the head sommelier at the New York outpost of La Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels. Since taking over as wine director and managing partner, the wine bar has become known for Ganzer’s approachable wine list and service. He often hosts themed parties at the bar, such as “Breakin’ Bojo” which combines Beaujolais wines, breakdancing, and hip hop, as well as the “Track Suit” party, inspired by Ganzer’s preferred somm uniform.
In June 2018, Ganzer launched an online wine course and app called VKNOW, aimed at teaching the public about wine in a non-intimidating and interactive way. Ganzer’s style and knowledge have earned him numerous accolades including Food and Wine’s “2017 Sommelier of the Year” and “Best New Sommelier of 2016” in Wine & Spirits Magazine.
