![]() At Meritage, our Wine Advisors manage our individual customer needs with wine selections specifically tailored for your individual purpose and fulfilling the highest quality wine within your budget.We all know how overwhelming choosing wine can be. That’s why at Meritage Wine Market, we created the Wine Advisors Program: a concierge-level service where our specially trained wine specialists do more than just offer bottles. They:
Dustin Cano Dustin, a proud San Diegan, moved from Texas at the age of two. He became general manager at Meritage in 2012, then co-purchased the store in 2018. Previously, he worked in Food & Beverage for several hotels globally. Dustin acquired a Diploma in Hospitality from Spain’s Les Roches Int’l School of Hotel Management. He also achieved a BS in Hospitality & Tourism and an MBA from Endicott College in Massachusetts. Dustin loves travel, sports and of course wine! He is our resident Vermouth and Bourbon aficionado.
Lawrence Bagayan Born and raised in San Diego, Lawrence joins Meritage after working several years as a Winery Cellar Master, making wines for 5 different wineries. He received his Certificate in Winemaking from UC Davis in 2017. He has also earned his Level III Certification in Wine from WSET and is a Certified Specialist of Wine with the Society of Wine Educators. He also teaches wine education through his YouTube Channel called "Fill of Pinot".
Cristina DeRisi Cristina spent half her childhood in the Bay Area and then half outside of DC. After completing studies with WSET and the Society of Wine Educators, she moved to Napa, where seven years in Wine Country gave her experience managing hospitality programs, private tastings, wine clubs, and even working a harvest while tasting some of California’s best wines.
Julie Chambers This California native was born in Marin County and grew up on the Santa Barbara coastline. Julie has over 13 years of wine industry experience. From the winery to the Tasting Room, to the global marketplace, she brings the team advanced WSET knowledge along with unwavering passion for the fruit of the vine. Please reach her at julie@meritagewinemarket.com
FAQ Do I have to buy anything? No, you’ll always see suggested wines before you commit. Is there a minimum purchase? No, there’s no minimum purchase to be part of the Meritage Wine Advisors program. That said, if you continually pass on offers for an extended period of time, we may assume the program isn’t the right fit and remove inactive members. How often will I hear from my Advisor? We reach out to you whenever an amazing opportunity or special deal comes across our desk that suits your palate or wine collection, as well as personalized wine offerings based on your unique tasting profile. Not in the buying mood? Just simply pass on the offer or let us know how often you would like them. Can I request in-store appointments? Virtual? Yes & yes, we’re flexible. Book your Wine Advisor today! Email your preferred advisor from their bio or call us at 760-479-2500 and we will place you with an expert advisor that fits your needs! Let us take the guesswork out of your wine experience so you can enjoy every glass.
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