In the world of wine in Texas, Barbara Werley stands out as a pioneering figure.
Having been the first woman to earn the title of master sommelier in the Lone Star State, Werley is only the fourth woman to achieve this prestigious recognition nationwide.
With only 34 women holding the title globally, her accomplishments place her among an elite group in the wine community.
Her remarkable career in Dallas includes directing the award-winning, 33,000-bottle wine cellar at Pappa’s Bros. Steakhouse and curating the wine menu for the Michelin-recommended Stillwell’s.
Currently, she serves as the wine director for Restaurant K Holdings, overseeing wine programs for popular establishments like Nuri Steakhouse and Joa Grill.
During the summer, Werley launched a series of exclusive wine classes called Sips of the Summer, designed for intimate gatherings of wine enthusiasts.
These sessions are highly sought after, with all tickets selling out quickly for June, July, and August classes.
Each session accommodates just ten participants, allowing for a unique and engaging experience.
As she reflects on the series, Werley expresses her desire to raise awareness about the exceptional wine list at Nuri, which she believes is the best and most unique in Dallas.
Werley emphasizes that not enough diners make wine a priority when choosing a restaurant, and she hopes to change that perception.
By focusing on wines that pair well with the Asian influences of Nuri’s menu, she aims to enhance the overall dining experience.
While Werley has conducted large holiday tastings in the past, she recognizes that these intimate classes allow for meaningful interactions.
Unlike the crowded tastings of her previous experiences, the Sips of the Summer sessions foster a relaxed atmosphere where attendees can engage in lively discussions about wine.
In these tastings, Werley curates delightful pairings, such as showcasing the Pinot family with wines like Pinot gris, Pinot blanc, and Pinot Chardonnay.
She believes that many people overlook the beauty of white wines, a sentiment she aims to change through exciting tastings that include gourmet bites.
Pairings often include sliders, cheese plates featuring blue cheese gorgonzola, or even steak tartare, all intended to complement the wines offered.
Looking ahead, Werley plans to experiment with aromatic whites in future tastings, inspired by her recent discussions with winemaker Rajat Parr.
Her commitment to introducing guests to exceptional wines is evident, especially as she aims to showcase unique offerings that differ from typical selections.
During a special Master series at Pappas, Werley created memorable moments by combining exquisite cuisine with wines served blind.
Attendees often expressed surprise at how well certain pairings worked, particularly when they were initially skeptical of the wines being served.
One standout experience for Werley was when she paired a Maderia-style wine from Hack, produced in Galveston County, with foie gras.
She notes that participants were enthusiastic about this pairing, as they were pleasantly surprised by the wine’s compatibility with the dish.
Amid the evolving landscape of wine consumption, Werley acknowledges trends among younger generations, who are gravitating toward diverse flavors rather than traditional choices.
She observes that younger consumers are less attached to their parents’ preferences, seeking new and exciting beverages.
To cater to this growing curiosity, Nuri’s wine list now features an extensive sake selection, organized by style to guide guests in their choices.
This thoughtful approach aligns with Werley’s mission of making wine exploration fun and approachable.
When asked about her current favorites, Werley highlights a recently met Lambrusco producer from Emilia-Romagna, a sparkling wine that she plans to introduce by the glass, which pairs perfectly with Nuri’s cuisine.
Her enthusiasm extends to meeting a vineyard owner from Montecchio, who presented an exceptional Lugano, a white wine from Lake Garda, further showcasing her commitment to finding remarkable wines.
Additionally, she expresses excitement about incorporating a sparkling Palamino from Raj Parr’s vineyard in Rancho Cucamonga, California, which is revitalizing the regions with interesting grape varieties.
To cater to those uncertain about Amarone wines, she will introduce a half bottle of an excellent Amarone, providing an accessible starting point for diners.
With an impressive career and a dedication to enhancing the wine culture in Dallas, Barbara Werley continues to invite wine lovers to discover the extraordinary world of wines at Nuri Steakhouse.
As she navigates her role and influences the local wine community, Werley’s contribution is sure to leave a lasting impact on both newcomers and seasoned connoisseurs alike.
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