Ryan Totman

Ryan Totman is originally from Minnesota, where he began washing dishes in restaurants at 13 years old. He earned a degree in graphic design and studied in California, though always continued to work in restaurants.

He eventually found his way to New York. As a server for BR Guest Hospitality, he was introduced to Master Sommelier Laura Maniec through their beverage classes. He began to understand the potential of a wine professional as a career and became a Certified Sommelier in 2013. When Laura opened Corkbuzz, he would intern their classes, then soon start to work for her, a decision which lasted twelve years. He earned his way up to Corkbuzz Corporate Beverage Director, responsible for programs at two locations in the city, Union Square and Chelsea Market, that involved dynamic wine lists, a strong focus in education with classes and staff training, and a range of wine related events.

He became an Advanced Sommelier in 2016, and has since achieved other accreditations, such as Wine Scholar Guild Bordeaux Master Level, Certified Sherry Wine Specialist with Highest Honors. He has entered numerous competitions, placed top 3 in several, including 1st place in the 2018 Ruinart Competition and 2015 Sud de France Best Sommelier. With a young family, he has recently transitioned into distribution with the small and respected team at Weygandt Selections, where he can grow and learn a new side of the industry.