Rajat Parr, an Indian-American sommelier turned winemaker, is a name synonymous with innovation, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in the world of wine. His journey from the bustling streets of Calcutta to the serene vineyards of Oregon and California is a testament to his unwavering passion and pioneering spirit.
Early Life and Education of Rajat Parr
Born and raised in Calcutta, India, Rajat Parr’s journey into the world of wine began with a single sip in 1993, at the age of 20, while visiting his uncle in London.
Despite limited exposure to wine in his native country, Rajat’s curiosity and thirst for knowledge propelled him to pursue a career in the culinary arts. He graduated from the Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration in Manipal, India, before honing his skills at the prestigious Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York.
Career Trajectory
Rajat’s career trajectory took an unexpected turn when he landed in San Francisco and joined the team at Rubicon Restaurant as a food runner. It was here that he discovered his true calling in the world of wine, under the mentorship of the renowned Master Sommelier Larry Stone.
Rajat’s relentless pursuit of knowledge and his innate talent for tasting soon earned him accolades, leading to his appointment as sommelier at the iconic Fifth Floor restaurant.
His meteoric rise continued as he assumed the role of wine director for the Michael Mina restaurant group, overseeing the wine programs of numerous establishments across the United States.
Rajat’s innovative approach and unparalleled expertise garnered widespread recognition, culminating in his collaboration with Jordan Mackay on the award-winning book “Secrets of the Sommeliers.”
Venturing into Winemaking
Driven by a desire to explore the art of winemaking firsthand, Rajat Parr embarked on a new chapter of his career, partnering with esteemed winemaker Sashi Moorman to launch Sandhi Wines.
With a focus on Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, sourced from biodynamic and organic vineyards, Sandhi quickly gained acclaim for its elegant and terroir-driven wines.
In addition to Sandhi, Rajat’s passion for winemaking led him to co-found Domaine de la Côte and Evening Land Vineyards, further solidifying his reputation as a visionary in the world of wine.
His commitment to minimal intervention and sustainable practices is evident in every bottle, reflecting his belief in allowing the grapes to speak for themselves.
A Visionary for the Future
Rajat’s latest endeavor sees him pushing the boundaries once again, with the establishment of an urban winemaking facility in downtown Los Angeles, in partnership with fellow winemaker Abe Schoener.
This innovative project underscores Rajat Parr’s unwavering dedication to pushing the boundaries of traditional winemaking and exploring new frontiers in the industry.
Also Read: Raghavan Ramachandran Iyer: Champion of Indian Cuisine