Kogod Wine Merchant

Kogod Wine Merchant

Kogod Wine Merchant, of Encinitas, was established to bring the greatest site-specific wines of the world to North County San Diego and beyond.  We focus on our passion: traditionally crafted wines, from small production wineries located in the classic vine-growing regions of the world.  Whenever possible, we look to source from producers who employ organic and biodynamic farming methods.  We believe in a simple truth: Great wine is made in the vineyard, and raised with a delicate hand in the cellar.  Whether you approach as a newcomer to the world of wine, or you are on the hunt for a rare bottle of aged Burgundy, you will be taken care of.  Our selection tends to emphasize wines that display balance, freshness, and nuance. All of our wines are stored at an ideal 55 degrees with 70% humidity. Sourcing comes from the most trusted, recognized and reliable wholesalers.  

Wines of Place

We strive to offer wines that clearly reflect the very specific place they are born.  The idea of terroir-driven wine is one that has served as the motivating force for our business - The concept that each wine conveys it could only have come from one place in the world, not many.  Ultimately, a delicious product is what we offer in every bottle, but a Sense of Place is something that we fervently believe should be communicated as well.

Max Kogod, Owner

Max has worked at every stage of the grape growing and wine production process --- from pruning vines to picking grapes; from fermentation through bottling with two noteworthy producers: Domaine Dujac in Burgundy, and Failla Wines of Napa Valley and the Sonoma Coast.  He has also worked closely with customers from all over the world during his time with Crush Wine & Spirits in New York City, where he served as a wine buyer and in retail sales.

His direct experience with the agricultural and production side of the wine industry instilled  a deep respect for terroir and proved to be the spark for the founding of Kogod Wine Merchant.

Max is from Potomac, Maryland, holds a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre from UCLA, and certifications from the Court of Master Sommeliers as a Certified Sommelier, and from the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone as a Certified Wine Professional. He now happily resides in Sherman Oaks, CA

 

Wines of Place