Our latest interview is with Laura Brady, President and Co-founder of Luxury Wine Tours, Inc. and Lux Wines. Luxury Wine Tours provides exquisite custom wine tours in Oregon’s bountiful Willamette Valley. Luxury Wine Tours was initially created out of a desire to bring people a unique food and wine experience that showcases Oregon’s world class Pinot Noir. Evolving from this, the idea of a Bridal Wine Registry, Lux Wines was created. Lux Wines showcases not only Oregon wines, but wines from around the world.
What is it that you do exactly?
I create wine experiences for those who love wine. I work with local winemakers, hotels and caterers to create luxurious unique wine tours that will result in wonderful memories. I customize each tour to suit the interests and palates of each customer. I also sell and market wines from around the world through our online wine store.
What do you enjoy most about what you do?
I love designing wine tours that give people an unforgettable experience. It is so rewarding to talk to our clients at the end of the tour about the people they meet and the wines they discover. Every client has a different idea of the perfect wine getaway, and I love the challenge of creating the right tour for each client. I also love recommending wines to customers based on their personal tastes. Whether I am helping a bride & groom complete their bridal registry, preparing food and wine pairings for one of Lux Wines wine clubs (especially our “Supper Club”), or assisting a customer with selecting the perfect party wines, it is fun to make the right wine match.
What would you say are the 3 best places you’ve ever stayed?
Hotel Danieli, Venice – The Danieli is the 14th century Palazzo Dandolo, once residence of the Doge Dandolo family. The antique furnishings are beautiful, the views of Venice are stunning, the service is gracious – the overall experience was magical.
Waldorf Astoria, New York – New York is my favorite city and you can’t beat the Waldorf. It has a classic charm that shows in every corner. There is nothing better than sipping a glass of Champagne before dinner while listening to someone play the Cole Porter piano and then finishing the night with a drink in the Bull & Bear – best Manhattan in Manhattan.
Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco – The accommodations are fantastic, the service is impeccable (especially the Club Level concierges). There couldn’t be a better place to enjoy this enchanting city. A perfect trip would combine this with a weekend trip to Ferrari-Carano’s Vinter’s Inn in Sonoma County.
What’s been your most memorable dining experience to date?
While wine tasting in Italy’s Emilia Romagna region, we were taken to a beautiful hillside restaurant. We sat outside overlooking the rolling countryside and the chef personally served us a four course menu with perfect wine pairings. Calamari salad, veal, homemade pasta… it was incredible. Truly an unforgettable experience. This day was the inspiration for Luxury Wine Tours.
Have you rubbed shoulders with the rich and famous, either through your work or your travels?
Our clients’ identities are confidential. However, I did stay at the Four Seasons Milan at the same time as the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Our bags almost went into the Chili Pepper’s car at checkout, but I guess that wouldn’t have been so bad because we all shared the cabin on our flight home from Milan.
What currently ranks highest on your travel wishlist?
A yacht cruise in the Mediterranean.
Thank you, Laura. It’s been a pleasure to learn more about what you do and great to get to hear your recommendations.
