About Rick Thompson

Embracing a deep passion for wine for over 20 years, Rick has a strong affinity for bottlings that reveal the classic elements of the craft. Wines that reveal the transparency of the variety and expose what only outstanding terroir and artful winemaking can express. He shares a love of old and new world wines alike and remains in an endless search of the finest expressions of the vinous culture. While his heart lies in the multitude of Italian varieties and appellations, he shares a zealous attraction for the grapes and wine regions of France, Spain, Hungary, Austria, Germany, Oregon and countless other localities. Rick has worked in wine imports, distribution and sales since 2006 and has represented many outstanding portfolios, giving him an edge that focuses on not simply what constitutes great winemaking, but what represents extraordinary value for the consumer. This is an aspect of wine reviews that continues to get lost in todays’ increasingly expensive import and domestic market. His business background includes owning an award-winning design/build firm in Pennsylvania with his longtime partner and brother Frank. He was one of the Founders of the National Non-Profit Access Fund – the nation’s leading rock climbers’ conservation and advocacy organization in 1991 - and has been a passionate rock climber for more than 40 years, having amassed over 800 First Ascents during that time. He’s penned seven books on rock climbing including the first ever guide to the legendary New River Gorge and served as a contributing journalist for a variety of national climbing publications including Rock & Ice, Climbing and Mountain Magazine. He is also a passionate skier and fly fisherman. Rick has two sons - Richard and Chris – and adores living in the Colorado High Country, where he can follow his passions with fervor.