ERIN LINDSTONE
Wine Director Barolo Grill
Age : 38 First Industry Job : Host at Restaurant Kevin Taylor in Denver Favorite Drink : Wine drinker — anything that is fresh and vibrant , with lots of acidity and minerality
Erin Lindstone has spent nearly all of her career at Barolo Grill , rising from server to sommelier to wine director through passion , talent , commitment and love for wine and hospitality . The award-winning wine program offers more than 2,000 selections and deep vintages , with selections that emphasize organic farmers , female winemakers and those that practice sustainable production .
Lindstone directs all of the wine training for the restaurant and is on the floor as the sommelier for the restaurant nightly . Her efforts have lifted the beverage training , implemented multiple levels of wine pairing options , and provided a deep sense of hospitality to a world-class wine program .
She currently mentors three servers that have sommelier aspirations and spends a significant amount of her personal time doing this . Lindstone is also a part of the team that organizes a staff trip to Northern Italy and arranges which wine producers they will visit .
The pandemic provided plenty of challenges and opportunities . “ It was an all-hands-on-deck moment that allowed for me to dip my toes into every corner of the restaurant , and get creative wherever I could to help us survive ,” Lindstone says .
“ I figured out how to translate our menu and wine program to a to-go format ; I created a wine club with different tiers of membership , including hand-written notes with customized wine selections for nearly 75 members .”
Lindstone also learned how to message guests through social media and other forms of online communication , and helped create a fundraiser to fund bungalows for outdoor dining . “ Then I figured how to run around a restaurant with a much larger footprint , taking care of guests outdoors and indoors ,” she notes .
“ The list goes on , it was a crazy time , but I learned so much that I carry with me to this day .”
PARTH PATEL
CEO Global Party Shop
Age : 30 First Industry Job : Cashier at a Global liquor store Favorite Drink : Long Drink and Oban Scotch
Working as a cashier was hardly a glamorous start to the industry , but it helped Patel develop a passion for the industry . “ Interacting with customers , learning about different beverages and witnessing the impact they had on people ' s lives ignited a spark within me ,” he recalls .
“ This early experience laid the foundation for my future career , shaping my understanding of customer service and fostering a deep appreciation for the world of beverages .”
From those humble beginnings he has risen to the CEO position within the company . This places him on the forefront of dealing with the industry ’ s many legal hurdles .
“ One of the most significant challenges I ' ve encountered in the liquor business is navigating the ever-evolving regulatory landscape ,” he says . “ Alcohol regulations can be complex and vary widely between states and countries . Staying informed about these regulations , ensuring compliance and adapting to changes can be time-consuming and resource intensive .”
“ However , by building strong relationships with regulatory agencies , investing in compliance software and staying updated on industry news , we ' ve been able to successfully navigate these challenges and maintain our business operations ,” he adds .
Patel also points to his love of learning and networking as critical to his success .
“ I stay updated on trends , regulations and consumer preferences through industry publications , conferences and online resources ,” he explains . “ Networking is crucial . I attend industry events , connect with professionals on social media , and foster relationships with suppliers , distributors and other key players .”
“ I am open to new ideas and technologies ,” he adds . “ I explore innovative marketing strategies , digital tools and emerging trends to stay ahead of the competition . I view challenges as opportunities for growth . I embrace setbacks and learn from my mistakes . I maintain a genuine passion for the liquor industry . My enthusiasm drives my motivation and inspires others .”
By consistently applying these principles , Patel says , “ I am confident in my ability to achieve my personal goals and excel in the dynamic and exciting world of the liquor industry .”
12 2025 BEVERAGE INFORMATION GROUP 40 UNDER 40