Today we’d like to introduce you to Britt Talbert.
Hi Britt, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My connection to A Taste of Monterey goes back more than two decades. In 2002, while attending the Naval Postgraduate School, I discovered this special place on Cannery Row and eventually worked behind the tasting bar. It’s also where I met my wife, Belynda. What started as a part time job quickly became something much more: a deep appreciation for Monterey County, its wine community, and the people who built it.
After serving 21 years in the U.S. Navy, I retired in 2014 and went on to leadership roles with General Motors, Dell, and a technology startup accelerator, where I focused on operations, customer experience, and business growth. But throughout those years, A Taste of Monterey was never far from our hearts. Belynda and I remained wine club members and stayed close with founders Ken and Robyn Rauh, watching them continue to build one of Monterey County’s most beloved wine destinations.
When the opportunity arose to carry their legacy forward, it felt less like buying a business and more like coming home. After Ken’s passing, preserving what he and Robyn had created became even more meaningful. A Taste of Monterey has always been more than a tasting room. It’s an ambassador for Monterey County wine, agriculture, and hospitality. We wanted to ensure that legacy continued while thoughtfully introducing it to a new generation of visitors.
Today, every decision we make is guided by the same vision that first drew me here: celebrating the incredible wines, people, and beauty of Monterey County. It’s a privilege to steward a place that has meant so much to us personally and to so many others for more than 30 years.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Taking over a business with more than 30 years of history is both an honor and a responsibility. A Taste of Monterey has meant a great deal to our community for decades, and many guests have strong memories and traditions tied to this place. We knew from the beginning that our challenge would be finding the right balance between preserving what people love and thoughtfully moving the business forward.
Like any ownership transition, there have been changes along the way. Building a team that shares our vision, introducing new ideas, and creating consistent experiences for our guests has taken time and intention. Change is never effortless, especially in a business with such deep roots, but every decision has been guided by a simple question: How do we ensure A Taste of Monterey continues to thrive for the next 30 years?
Today, we’re surrounded by a team that is passionate about hospitality, Monterey County wines, and creating memorable experiences for every guest. Looking back, the challenges have reinforced that we’re not simply maintaining a business. We’re investing in its future while honoring the foundation that made it so special in the first place.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’ve been fortunate to build a career that has taken me around the world. During 21 years as a U.S. Navy officer, I served in aviation, led international programs, and worked alongside military and civilian partners across multiple continents. After retiring from the Navy, I continued leading complex operations and business strategy with Fortune 500 companies and early stage startups. While the industries have been different, the common thread has always been building teams, solving problems, and creating organizations that serve people well.
After living and working in so many places, my wife, Belynda, and I chose Monterey County as the place to put down roots and raise our family. It’s where our story began, where we met, and where we always hoped to return.
Owning A Taste of Monterey brings those experiences full circle. What I’m most proud of isn’t a particular title or accomplishment. It’s having the opportunity to steward a place that introduces visitors to the incredible wines, people, and beauty of Monterey County. Every guest who walks through our doors is an opportunity to share the region we’ve chosen to call home.
Do you have any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
My favorite childhood memories revolve around family. I grew up watching my mother bring Louisiana’s rich Cajun culinary traditions to life in our kitchen, and I still remember the incredible flavors that filled our home. I also have wonderful memories of spending time with my grandfather in Asheville, North Carolina. Those experiences instilled in me an appreciation for food, family, and the connections that are made around the table.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://atasteofmonterey.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atasteofmonterey/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tastemonterey
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/a-taste-of-monterey-wine-market-and-bistro-monterey-2
