Richard Clark, wine steward for I'o restaurant in Lahaina, recently completed the Court of Master Sommeliers Level One training.
"We are extremely proud of Richard," said I'o's General Manager Ken Caldwell. "This caliber of training enhances I'o's wine service, and elevates us amongst other Maui restaurants."
The prestigious sommelier training was held in Raleigh, N.C., at the Angus Barn restaurant, known for its award-winning 25,000-bottle wine cellar. At I'o, Clark is responsible for wine procurement as well as development, cellar management and food and wine pairings. He is an early proponent of Hawaii Regional Cuisine, having worked for both Beverly Gannon and Jean-Marie Josselin.
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Photo courtesy I’o Restaurant
I’o Restaurant’s wine steward Richard Clark is now a sommelier and he also doubles as the manager of O’o Farms in Kula.
Six years ago, I'o and its sister restaurant, Pacific'o, acquired eight acres of pristine farmland in Kula, and Clark went to work developing their O'o Farm as both of the restaurants' exclusive sustainable, organic farm. These days, he doubles as farm manager and wine steward.
I'o serves Hawaii Regional Cuisine yet adds a Mediterranean flair. Entrees are listed with suggested wine pairings from I'o's award-winning wine list. Once a month (with the exception of August), the restaurant features its popular Wine Club, which is a $30 wine tasting and pupu pairing.
I'o is located at 505 Front St. Dinner is offered nightly starting at 5:30. For more details, call 661-8422 or visit www.iomaui.com
