Welcome to Custom Wine Consulting.  My name is Mollie Battenhouse, and for the past 20 years, I have worked in the restaurant industry, in almost all areas of the restaurant, from pastry chef to chef to bartender, sommelier and server.  I have also worked as a wine store manager and corporate wine director and educator for a nationally based wine retail chain, and teach wine classes through the International Wine Center as well as privately.  I also teach private cooking classes from time to time.

My love affair with wine began at the first taste of Storybook Mountain Eastern Exposures Zinfandel, when I was about 24.  I had already been drinking wine, but hadn't yet been bitten by the bug - at that time, I was a serious foodie, interested in getting into and cooking in the kitchens of the best restaurants in the country.  My love of food took me to the CIA, where I received my BA in Culinary Arts in the summer of 1997, finishing at the top of my class.  After the CIA, I moved to New York city to begin working in the kitchen of Payard Patisserie and Bistro, with chef Philippe Bertineau.  About 6 months later, I took the plunge and began working in wine, at Best Cellars, where I stayed for 8 years.  A stint as a sommelier at the Tribeca Grill brought me back to restaurants, combining my years of experience with my new wine knowledge.  The path to wine has taken me into some serious education.  I have completed the WSET Advanced Certificate and Diploma, and am a candidate for the prestigious title Master of Wine.  Additionally, I am a certified sommelier through the Court of Master Sommeliers.  I also hold a BFA from Wesleyan College in painting and sculpture, with a business concentration.

All of the studies and experiences I have had thus far has shaped my career, and led me to share my experiences and knowledge with others.  My services through Custom Wine Consulting consist of Retail and Restaurant Wine Consultation, including wine direction, wine training, service training and business consultation, as well as teaching wine education courses privately or in groups.  Custom Wine Consulting also offers private wine events, from 2 people to 2000.  You choose the venue, the date and the time, and I'll do the rest.  Don't host another boring holiday party, give Custome Wine Consulting a call.   917-496-1398 or dwswinegirl@gmail.com