No doubt Covid really threw a nasty monkey wrench into food and wine festivals throughout the world. None more so than the Pebble Beach Food and Wine extravaganza. Attracting top wine and food talent from all over the United States, it was such a drag when it shut down from 2020-2023. But it has rebounded in incredible fashion, again bringing in amazing food and wine people from all four corners. And so, even after all the food, booze and fun of SOBEWFF 2025, the web gal and I were thrilled to get an invite to attend Pebble Beach Food & Wine 2025 on April 10-13.

In anticipation of the event, the Insider caught up with Tyler Hinsley, the Director of Hospitality of Napa’s JACK Winery.  Totally stoked to be hosting JACK’s booth at the Grand Tasting and being part of the talent for the Kingsford Presents Pit Masters of the Fairway: BBQ Walk-Around Experience, hosted by Pitmaster Chris Lilly on April 12  on the 3^rd fairway  of the Pebble Beach golf course. Tyler was also stoked to do the NSI quiz. “Yeah man, it’s an honor. Totally cool questions, not your typical wine interview.” Cheers and enjoy.

What was last night’s dinner? A charcuterie plate. A nice medley of different cheeses and smoked meats. Very tasty.

What’s your favorite music? I loved all kinds of music, rock, country, whatever. But lately I’ve gotten into acoustic guitar covers of songs. Find it very intriguing.

What’s your favorite drink? After wine, I’d have to say I like a Kentucky Mule. Basically a Moscow Mule, only with bourbon instead of vodka.

What’s your favorite restaurant in Napa? Oh man, there are so many that are so good. I guess if I had to choose one, I’d say Farm at Carneros Resort is my go to place. Great atmosphere combined with the finest, freshest ingredients. Just a fabulous night out.

What’s your favorite thing about living and working in Napa? Ah no question, it’s the combination of the wine and food. I mean it’s just incredible to have all these great chefs, food and winemakers all in one place. Literally, you could discover a new wine, meal or food every day of the year for the rest of your life. What’s not to love?

What makes a great wine tasting experience? In a word, connection. It’s up to the host to make sure his tasters relate to the wine. If they’re nodding their heads, smiling and asking for refills, your creating connection and making them relate to the wine.

Any brush with celebrity? None that I can talk about. But one thing I find kind of interesting. Have had a bunch of pro athletes, basketball, baseball and football, who have taken a big interest in wine recently and want to learn about and taste the best.

Any wine, trip or restaurant on your bucket list? Tyler’s wife Emily piped up in the background, we want to go to northern Italy. Yeah, that’d be cool and also Sicily for her family.

Final thoughts? Oh, just really looking forward to the Pebble Beach event.  Going to be great to say hello to familiar faces and make new friends as well. Just thrilled to be a part of it.