George R. Eldi

Hospitality Professional and Wine Expert with over 25 years of experience in restaurant management, fine dining service, wine curation, sales, and retail. Demonstrated expertise in creating exceptional dining experiences, building comprehensive wine programs focused on quality, terroir, and food pairings, and educating customers on wines from small producers. Proven track record of critical acclaim in restaurant operations and wine retail, with a passion for natural/organic wines, North Fork/Long Island producers, and personalized hospitality.

Strong background in both front-of-house leadership and wine importation/sales.

Owner & Operator at Wines by Nature (2017-01 – Present)

Founded and operates a boutique wine and spirits shop specializing in small-production, family-run, natural/organic wines and spirits from around the world, with a strong emphasis on North Fork and New York State producers.

• Curated seasonal selections and host educational tastings, emphasizing terroir, winemaking philosophy, and food pairings. Popular categories include New York State, Pinot Noir and Italy.
• Recognized for filling a niche in customer service-oriented wine retail between the Hamptons and western Suffolk.
• Featured in multiple publications including Newsday (Corin Hirsch called Eldi 'a true wine diplomat'), Long Island Pulse (May 2018), Northforker (multiple features), and Greenwich Sentinel.
• Championed small wineries and organic offerings, with additional recognition for Nature's Vineyards connection.

Wine Sales Representative at Verity Wine Partners (2014-01 – 2017-12)

Expanded portfolio presence in the Hamptons and Suffolk County, representing premium wines to top restaurants and retailers.

Wine Sales Representative at Frederick Wildman and Sons (2011-01 – 2014-12)

Represented historic estate wines from around the world to leading accounts across Suffolk County.

• Traveled extensively to California, Italy, and Spain, gaining in-depth knowledge of vineyards, soils, climates, and producers through direct engagement with winemakers and owners.
• Built strong relationships and educated trade accounts on wine stories and pairings.

Co-Owner / Maître d'Hôtel & Wine Director at Table 48 (1998-01 – 2000-12)

Co-founded and operated a chef-driven restaurant with international wine list complemented by North Fork selections. Managed front-of-house operations, wine service, staff training, and guest experience. Partnered with Chef Brian Schlitt (former Seafood Barge collaboration) to create a highly regarded dining destination. Covered lead Kitchen duties on Chef's off days.

• Featured in The New York Times 'Dining Out' review by Joanne Starkey (1999). Praised as part of a 'dream team' with Schlitt.
• Noted for ruling the dining room with a 'gentle hand,' suggesting wines, explaining the list, and hands-on service.
• Restaurant described as 'a splendid restaurant that is just a shade away from a rating of excellent,' with standout dishes and wine program.

Manager / Wine Director at Seafood Barge (1996-01 – 1998-12)

Managed one of the busiest North Fork restaurants. Developed and expanded the wine list with a focus on North Fork producers, fostering early deep understanding and passion for regional wines. Learned extensively through direct interactions with winemakers. Hands-on role in operations and hospitality.

Part-Time Catering & Hospitality Support at Elegant Affairs / Peter Ambrose

Provided front-of-house, Bartending wine service, and hospitality expertise for high-end off-premise catering events. Supported Elegant Affairs (recognized for talented culinary teams and exceptional service in reviews) delivering polished guest experiences at weddings, corporate, and private events. Enhanced wine pairings and service standards.

Catering Captain at Crest Hollow Country Club

Catering Captain. Additional early experience included waiting tables through college and beyond, building foundational hospitality skills.

B.S. in Business Economics – SUNY Oneonta (1991-01)