Domaine de Cromey: A Year in the Tasting Room (2024–2025)

Domaine de Cromey holds a special place in my Burgundy journey. Founded and owned by Dennis and Ellie Sherman, the domaine reflects their long-standing commitment to Burgundy, not only as a wine region but as a community built on trust, relationships, and shared passion. The wines presented at Domaine de Cromey are not chosen casually — they are the result of many years of friendship and collaboration, with Dennis and Ellie carefully selecting bottles from some of Burgundy’s best hidden-gem producers, people they know personally and whose work they deeply respect.

From 2024 to 2025, I had the privilege of working at Domaine de Cromey, where I was responsible for running the tasting room and hosting wine tastings for visitors from around the world. During this time, I welcomed guests from the US, UK, Europe, and beyond, guiding them through a selection of wines that carried real stories behind them — stories shaped by Dennis and Ellie’s close relationships with the growers and producers of the region.

Life in the Tasting Room

Running the tasting room meant far more than pouring wine. Each visit was an opportunity to tailor the experience to the guest — whether they were first-time visitors to Burgundy or seasoned collectors. Tastings were designed to be informative, relaxed, and didactic, allowing guests to explore the nuances of the wines at their own pace, ask questions, and deepen their understanding of Burgundy’s terroirs.

In addition to hosting tastings, I also guided visitors around the property itself, helping them understand not only the wines but the environment in which they are enjoyed. Spending so much time alongside Dennis and Ellie allowed me to learn enormously from their knowledge, their network, and their approach to wine selection, particularly the importance of long-term relationships and integrity when choosing producers. Their insight shaped the way tastings were presented and gave each visit a sense of authenticity that guests consistently appreciated.

A Foundation for What Came Next

My time at Domaine de Cromey was formative. Working closely with visitors day after day sharpened my ability to communicate wine clearly, adapt to different levels of knowledge, and create memorable, personal experiences. Just as importantly, it gave me the opportunity to learn directly from Dennis and Ellie — from how they select wines, to how they welcome guests, and how they quietly champion some of Burgundy’s most talented yet lesser-known producers.

Although I have since moved on to establish The Burgundy Wine Vault, my connection with Domaine de Cromey remains strong. I continue to be affiliated with the estate, assisting with arrangements for weekly stays at the propertyfor guests looking to immerse themselves more deeply in Burgundy.

Looking Ahead

Domaine de Cromey represents an important chapter in my professional story — one rooted in hands-on experience, genuine hospitality, and a deep respect for Burgundy’s wines and the people behind them. The values and knowledge passed on by Dennis and Ellie continue to influence the way I approach wine tastings, wine tourism, and client experiences today.

For those discovering Burgundy for the first time, or returning for another visit, Domaine de Cromey remains a place worth knowing — and one I’m proud to have been part of.

I am still affiliated with Domaine de Cromey, and if you are interested in booking a trip or arranging a stay at the property, please feel free to email me directly — I’d be delighted to help you plan your visit.