Ralph Hersom

Owner at Ralph’s Hingham Wine Merchant

Greater Boston

About

" Ralph Hersom is affable and enthusiastic, the kind of person who could make a wine lover out of anyone... Ruth Reichl, New York Times An award-winning sommelier with extensive experience in opening new markets, educating clients on wine & wine etiquette, and creating world-class wine lists for prestigious restaurants, resorts, and high net worth individuals. He has been instrumental in opening new venues, developing and executing sales and marketing strategies, and quickly producing sustainable revenue in all economic climates. An industry recognized wine professional, Ralph has the skill set to effectively build, manage, and motivate a distributor sales force. He is currently seeking a position as a brand ambassador or supplier representative for a prestigious producer.

Experience

  • Owner at Ralph’s Hingham Wine Merchant
    Apr 2018 - Present · 8 yrs 3 mos

  • Wine Consultant at RRH Cellars
    Nov 2005 - Present · 20 yrs 8 mos

  • Category Manager at Hannaford Supermarkets
    Mar 2016 - Jun 2017 · 1 yr 4 mos

    Category Manager for Wine/Beer/Spirits

  • Wine Director / General Manager at Ralph's Wines and Spirits
    Jan 2005 - Feb 2016 · 11 yrs 2 mos

    Established in January 2005, Ralph's offers a wide selection of wines & spirits; events include wine tastings, private events, and wine education classes. - Direct daily operations; manage and mentor staff, analyze sales trends, and maintain market leadership through effective purchasing, social media management, and numerous cost-saving measures. - Created an eclectic wine inventory featuring small producers and cult classics. - Established and lead an educational program that focuses on pairing food and wine. - Execute online, print, and in-store marketing campaigns to meet short and long-term goals.

  • Wine Director / Supplier Representative at Amazing Food Wine Company
    Jan 2006 - Feb 2011 · 5 yrs 2 mos

    Created unique concept in wine education by launching Wine That Loves, a line of wines designed specifically to pair with foods. - Partnered with wineries to produce a line of proprietary wines under the label Wines That Love, traveled to vineyards throughout the world to source wines for blends. - Spearheaded marketing efforts for Company’s brand in the Northeast; initiated and executed sales and marketing strategies with distributors, retailers, and restaurateurs. - Immediate impact included widespread press, reviews, and interviews in industry publications. - New concept proved popular with wine drinkers while introducing younger consumers to the market.