Brian Hider, Neighbor

Brian Hider has been buying wine for restaurants since 1996.

His first list was created at the Tewksbury Inn in Oldwick, New Jersey.  During his 10 years there, the Inn was credited with Fours Stars from the New York Times and The Best Award of Excellence from the Wine Spectator.  

One of his regular customers was Carl LaGrassa, who noticed Hider's affinity for wine and took him under his wing.  LaGrassa was one of Brian’s favorite customers and the two soon developed a relationship based on a mutual love of wine. “We hit it off and he liked good wines.  He didn’t know many people at the time who had that same level of appreciation.   It had always been a lifelong dream of Carl LaGrassa and his wife Gloria to have their own restaurant. When they purchased the Pluckemin Inn in Bedminster, New Jersey, Carl and Gloria offered Brian the position of Wine Director.  This is where Brian has been able to expand upon his passion for wine.   Brian is also the manager of www.pluckemininnwineshop.com 

Award

The Grand Award from Wine Spectator 2011

Food & Wine Magazine called Pluckemin Inn “one of the world's 50 most amazing wine experiences in America.”

Award of Ultimate Distinction Winners 2006-2009 from The Wine Enthusiast