Having worked with Jen for a couple years, helping out with tastings and watching her recite each of your taste preferences from memory, I had a hard time picturing her ever leaving. Moreover, I also never anticipated I’d be the one taking her place at the helm of Hillsborough Wine Company, but here we are.

                For those of you who might not remember me from the halcyon days of 2017-2018 when I was working alongside Jen on Fridays and Saturdays, I’m Sam Otterbourg. I’ve worked for Todd in some capacity for the last 3 years, though mostly in the Chapel Hill Store. You might have read some of the emails that I’ve written, or seen me around when Jen was taking a well-earned vacation, but I’m sure to most I am nowhere near as familiar a face as Jen.

                I’m looking forward to getting to know all of you, so here’s a bit about me. My girlfriend and I moved to Hillsborough in March, and share our home with our two dogs and a variant number of cats. Much like Jen, I’m very enthusiastic about all aspects of the culinary arts. You might also see me running on the trails at Brumley or Occoneechee. In my spare time I write, code, and design games, as well as participate in all manner of other extremely dorky hobbies.

                As far as wine goes (and this is what we’re all here for, isn’t it?), my tastes are all over the place. I’m particularly fond of Syrah, crisp Italian whites, and roses of any region, but my absolute favorite wines are the Etna Rossos and Etna Biancos from the volcanic slopes of Sicily. You also won’t find me turning down anything from Oregon or Alsace, or with bubbles.

                I hope that I can provide the same outstanding service that Jen did for the last eighteen years. If there’s anything I can help you with, or if you just want to introduce yourself, you can always reach me via email (Sam@chapelhillwinecompany.com), or call the store. I’m looking forward to getting to know each and every one of you!

Sam Otterbourg