Daniel Shanks’ road to the White House began as a fledgling college student in Richmond, Virginia. Following graduation, Daniel made his way out to Napa Valley, where he started working in restaurants and developed growing appreciation for the passion for the sounds, smells and taste of grapes while living on a vineyard in Rutherford. In 1977, he was hired to be the maitre’d at Chandon, Domaine Chandon’s fine dining restaurant. In late fall of 1994, Daniel received a call that would change his life. It was from the usher’s office of the Executive Residence of the White House, inquiring if he would like to be considered for the position of food and beverage usher. He arrived at the White House for his interview with the chief usher and first lady Hillary Clinton’s social secretary. The rest, as they say, is history! 

Drink in this very special episode of the Vine Guy and find out why people’s perception of the White House as a shining example of the best of American dining has both its rewards and its challenges.

Wines Discussed In This Episode:

1995 Heitz Cabernet Sauvignon

1985 “Shanks” Zinfandel