Story
The name The Blind Monk is derived from Dom Pierre Pérignon, the famed Benedictine monk and cellar master of the Abbey of Hautvillers in Champagne, France. To ensure the highest quality grapes were selected for his wines, Dom would taste and select grapes without knowing the source vineyard. This crucial first step of what became known as the Methodé Champenoise led to a revolution in the production and quality of sparkling wine. Over time, references to these “blind tastings” led to the misconception that Dom Pérignon was blind. Our name is a tribute to this wine making legend.
Staff
Ben Lubin – Owner
Ben is a native of West Palm Beach and opened The Blind Monk in August, 2010. A novice to the hospitality industry, Ben sought to create a friendly, neighborhood wine bar from the perspective of the consumer, with a focus on the whole experience of having a drink, not just the end result.
Ben is a former Marine Captain and veteran of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. He holds a master’s degree in International Affairs from Columbia University and is currently serving in Afghanistan with the United States Agency for International Development.
Reese Fisher – General Manager
Reese was born and raised in Topeka, Kansas. Eventually, her love of travel brought her to South Florida, but not before a stint in California where, technically, her career in the wine industry began—in 2001 she was crowned Miss Sonoma Valley. While Reese loves wine, she is truly in love with beer. Her enjoyment and appreciation of the many styles of beer developed into a passion, and now selecting the craft beers for The Blind Monk is one of her many duties.
A self-proclaimed nerd, Reese is always seeking ways to better herself. She is currently studying for her sommelier certification and has plans to obtain a cicerone certification shortly thereafter.
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