July 11, 2004
Matthew Citriglia M.S.
2277 Westbrooke Drive
Columbus, Ohio 43228

Dear Matt,

I would like to take a moment to thank you for the support that you have given to me and my family during the start-up of Christopher’s Aurora Bistro. This took place in two different ways: the first was your support in helping me and my son-in-law, Sean Brickley in creating a unique wine list that separates us from the other fine dining restaurants in the area. The second was the benefit that we achieved by participating in your WineMentor seminars.

As you know, the opening of this restaurant was a new venture for me and my wife Marsha. My children have been in the restaurant business for over ten years, we did not have similar experiences. My professional career has allowed me to dine in fine restaurants throughout the world; however, I was not adequately experienced to create a wine selection for a new restaurant. The seminars gave me the fundamental understanding of the components of wine and the origin of wine to confidently create a unique wine offering. The seminars were interesting, informative and enjoyable. Sean handles our wine and beverage offerings as well as working with out daughter, Jennifer in providing excellent customer service to our guests. He states; “Matthew’s seminars allowed me to understand the complex relationships of food and wine matching. This enabled me to identify my guests wants and needs in order for them to feel comfortable with my suggestions, allowing me to provide the high level of satisfaction that they desire.”

We would encourage others to take advantage of the unique learning experience that can be gained from participating in the WineMentor program.

Best personal regards,
Mike Shydlowski

To Whom It May Concern:

I am writing as Director of Training for The Tavern Restaurant Group, we own and operate six full service concepts in Ohio and Kentucky. During the last 20 years in the industry I have attended many seminars, classes and workshops. About two years ago I had the pleasure of attending Matt Citriglia’s wine seminar, to say this class is outstanding is an understatement. This seminar is power packed with wine knowledge, service and salesmanship, delivered in a non-threatening easy to understand way.

This class is delivered in multiple parts, and it was delightful to watch our service staff gain confidence with each class. This class makes the participants “experts” on wine and when you feel like an expert you are confident at your tables. Servers immediately started selling more wine, which again built confidence, which built sales. We offer Matt’s classes to our staff several times a year; many servers have asked to sit through a second time. Our company just opened its newest full service concept, The Polo Grille we put every server and every bartender through Matt’s classes as part of our opening training. The feedback was outstanding and I am proud to say we are selling a lot of wine. Please don’t hesitate to contact me for more information.

Sincerely,
Kathleen Ruppert
Director of Training
513-605-4700 ext# 12