Rafael Flores founded Artisanal Cellars in 2007. His interest in wine began in Tucson, AZ while working at a tapas restaurant and finishing his undergraduate degree at UofA. The wine interest/hobby continued to grow while pursuing a Masters & PhD in Music. A part time job at an iconic wine shop near Lincoln Center, in New York City, quickly grew into a full time position and PhD studies began to compete with opportunities to attend tastings, and meet winemakers and importers. After living in NYC for a few years, Raf and his wife, Ariel, moved back to the Upper Valley area of Vermont, where they both have roots, and started the company soon after. Raf’s first wine love: Spanish Rioja.
Winthrop Pennock joined Artisanal Cellars in 2008, and became a partner in 2011, bringing with him a wealth of experience in the hospitality and wine industries. Winthrop’s journey began in the kitchens of Steamboat Springs, CO, where he worked after graduating from college. His passion for fine dining led him back East to the New England Culinary Institute, where he earned a degree in Restaurant Management and began honing his palate.
Following his education, Winthrop managed beverage programs at properties like the Three Mountain Inn and the Copper Beach Inn. After over two decades in the restaurant world, Winthrop sought a new challenge and helped open and grow Windham Wines in Brattleboro, VT, where his connection with Artisanal Cellars began. A buying trip to Austria with Rafael Flores solidified their shared vision, leading to Winthrop’s role in expanding Artisanal Cellars. Winthrop’s first wine love: A 1980 Joseph Phelps Cabernet.
Iacopo Di Teodoro joined Artisanal Cellars in 2015, bringing passion, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to the wine world. Together, we built something special—introducing exceptional producers, fostering deep relationships, and sharing our love for remarkable wines.
While no longer business partners, we continue to work closely with Iacopo to bring incredible wines to your table. His impact on Artisanal Cellars is tangible, and our friendship and shared respect remain as strong as ever. We are deeply grateful for the years of collaboration and look forward to raising a glass together for many more to come. Iac’s first wine love was the everyday bottle of the simplest version of Sangiovese.
Miguel “Gel” Flores was our wonderful warehouse manager and delivery driver (and Raf’s brother). Gel moved back from Colorado to help his brother start the company. Unfortunately he passed in 2021. Gel’s first wine love was a Frizzante Rose