Raymond Alexander is a native son of Bradenton who got his start in the hospitality industry bussing tables at the Sandbar on Anna Maria Island. For a while there, it seemed like we might lose him to the fashion retail industry; Abercrombie & Fitch got Alexander’s passion-driven work ethic, his appreciation for everyday luxuries, and his easy-going charm for nine years. However, he grew tired of the corporate atmosphere and, like many did during the COVID-19 pandemic, he took an opportunity to pivot.
“I applied at an ABC Fine Wine & Spirits and got an entry-level job as a stock person, worked my way through the ranks, and ended up as the assistant manager at the store on Manatee Avenue and 59th,” Alexander says, adding that he’s grateful for the experience and knowledge he rapidly gained there: “Fast forward two years, and Michael Klauber took a little gamble on me.”
Alexander is now the one who keeps Michael’s Wine Cellar flowing with the familial approach to customer service for which Michael’s on East and Michael’s Catering and Events are well-known. During his three years in the cellar so far, he has earned his certification as a Level 1 sommelier and has honed his skills in the art of pairing food and beverage.
Don’t know the first thing about wine? No worries. Alexander will give you a relaxed tour of Michael’s Wine Cellar as he learns a little about you and what you’re looking for. He’s more than happy to share tasting notes and stories behind the wines that catch your eye. (And if you’re looking for a bargain, explore the tidy rows of carts where all bottles are priced at $25 and under.)
But as much as he enjoys helping new customers dip their toes in, Alexander relishes the opportunity to assist connoisseurs just as much.
“In the wine and spirits world, I always consider it a journey. We’re all here to learn from each other,” Alexander says. “With the number of labels and options that we have in-house, I learn something when guests have had the ability or luxury to try something that I haven’t consumed. I look at it as, while I’m helping customers on this journey, at times they help me as well.”
Alexander also contributes to curating wine lists and drink menus for tasting events in the store, large-scale fêtes in Michael’s Ballroom, and other happenings created by Michael’s Catering and Events. He considers the season, as well as the regions, varietals, and distillers that are currently creating buzz. And whenever he can, he seeks out opportunities to ignite a liquid love affair.
“Everyone has brand loyalties, but it’s cool in our world to be able to introduce people to new labels,” he says.
With more than 1,200 wines, up to 350 spirits, and a wide variety of beers to boot, a visit to Michael’s Wine Cellar can be mind-boggling. Do your palate a favor, and let Raymond Alexander be your guide!
Michael’s Wine Cellar
1283 South Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
941-955-2675
shop.michaelswinecellar.com
