How I Work: Sommelier Mark Osburn
Sommelier Mark Osburn on the job, with possibly the most charming assistant in the business.
When you think of a creative career, a sommelier might not come to mind. But, as Mark Osburn, the lead sommelier at SommSelect – which offers hand-selected wine from sustainable, family-owned producers — shares, it’s a highly creative role. “Every creator seeks creative freedom, and I am fortunate enough to have that opportunity every day,” he says. “Not only do I taste all styles of wine from across the world, but I also tell and disseminate their fascinating stories to tens of thousands of wine-appreciating customers.”
Stories are an essential part of Osburn’s work — both professionally and personally (He’s currently retooling his first screenplay about, naturally, the world of wine.). Read on to learn why he wakes up at the same time, how he structures his wide-ranging days, and why his dream studio includes a ladder to reach it.
Rise and Shine
Right now, during the winter months, my morning begins (6:29 AM PT) with a quick news scan or crossword before grabbing a blanket and cocooning in my office. For whatever reason, my creativity thrives in these cold months — cold brew, cold house, cold extremities…they all serve as stimulants. I begin with 90 minutes of script work before switching over to SommSelect mode. They are both creative yet disparate beasts; shutting one laptop and opening the other is like flipping a mental switch for me.
Work Uniform
Picture some of the world’s most glamorous, polished, garish attire. Now imagine the exact opposite. That’s my uniform. (I work predominantly from home.)
How I Structure My Day
Given my mixed bag of responsibilities — a day can consist of writing articles, tasting wines, price negotiation, managerial meetings, and various admin work — one would assume “structure” is the key to staying afloat. I look at it differently: compartmentalize first, prioritize second, execute third. I always keep a mental checklist at bay while ensuring content creation steers clear of the back burner. If I’m feeling a creative wave, I’ll ride that sucker until running ashore.
Playlist Favorites
If you see my Airpods in, there’s a 50% chance I’m not listening to anything. But let’s assume I am for the sake of the question. If it’s technical writing, the musical spectrum is endless with no rhyme or reason: Radiohead, Big L, Beach House, or Jimi Hendrix could be next in the queue. If writing creatively, it’s almost always ambient music with Hans typically making an appearance. I’m also big on sticking with what’s working, so I’ll keep a song on repeat if “in the zone.”
Tools of the Trade
Writing and note-taking equipment: Macbook, ReMarkable, standing desk. As for source material, I rely on several stacks of wine tombs and my winery-importer-distributor network of contacts. If I’m stuck during the writing process, I’ll use Merriam’s Word of the Day or any object within my line of sight as a launching point. If that doesn’t work, I’ll write something else, open any book, or take a walk. That last point is critical. How can you expect creative freedom if you’re contained within the same four walls each waking hour? Conversely, training yourself to stay seated is equally important. It’s easier to go check the mail, clip your fingernails (for a third time), or browse the internet “just for five minutes.” Discipline yourself, sprinkle in the outdoors, and read more!
Dream Studio
Something…elevated and minimal. A writer’s perch of sorts. Climbing a ladder must be a requirement.
One Unique Thing About My Work Process
Two-in-one: When writing a first draft, I refuse to use the “backspace” button. Foul language, alien syntax, nonexistent words…let it flow! ChatGPT has nothing on me.
Mantra
Hold yourself accountable, appreciate your body of work, and aim for something that’s never been done.
My Bright Idea that Never Saw the Light of Day
I’m keeping those self-proclaimed “bright” ideas under lock and key for now, but I will say the world is overdue for a wine and world-travel show à la Bourdain’s Parts Unknown.
To-Do List Item That Keeps Me Up At Night
The to-dos of tomorrow don’t keep me awake — it’s the to-dos of next month or year, and I’m not fully prepared to turn this into a therapy session.
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