Emmanuel Kemiji became only the 12th American to achieve the rank of Master Sommelier and one of nine to pass the exam on his first attempt. Born in the United States, Kemiji grew up in Spain and lives in Puerto Rico. He obtained degrees in Spanish Literature and Economics from the University of California at Davis, where he also studied Viticulture.

Formally the Director of Wine & Spirits at the Ritz-Carlton in San Francisco, Kemiji is currently a managing partner at Clos Pissarra winery in Priorat, Spain, and the proprietor of Miura Vineyards in Santa Rosa, CA.

While in town for the 30A Wine Festival, Kemiji sat down with me in the podcast studio at SOWAL House in Rosemary Beach, FL, to discuss his wines, the wine industry, and how to enjoy fine wine and food best.