Every wine has a story, and Paul Botamer is an expert storyteller. He has been talking about wine, from its history to its complex flavors, for more than 25 years. He has shared this knowledge in some of the nation’s top restaurants, including The Mansion on Turtle Creek, A Rosewood Hotel, where he was director of wine and beverage.

"Each wine is so unique with its own flavor and history," says Paul. "Whenever I try a new wine, I feel like a kid opening a present on Christmas Day."

In August 2006, D Magazine noted that Paul is one of three sommeliers in Dallas with the potential to become the city’s first Master Sommelier, a distinction held by only 138 sommeliers in the world. He is currently recognized as an Advanced Sommelier by Court Master Sommeliers and is studying to take the Master exam. He is a member of the Society of Wine Educators.

At Fearings at the Ritz Carlton, Paul oversees the restaurant’s beverage program, including extensive wine lists and special wine pairing menus. He joined the restaurant in 2007 from The Mansion on Turtle Creek. Previously, he worked at Mary Elaine’s at The Phoenician Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona. During his time as lead sommelier at Mary Elaine’s, he was a member of the team recognized with the Wine Spectator’s Grand Award, AAA Five-Diamond Award and nomination for the James Beard Foundation’s: Best Wine Service in the Country: 2001, 2003 and 2004.

An avid reader and history buff, Paul also enjoys traveling to vineyards across the world to continue sharpening his education in the field.