..:: Dean Fearing ::..

Sommeliers

Paul Botamer

WINE DIRECTOR

Every wine has a story, and Paul Botamer is an expert storyteller. He has been talking about wine, from its history to its complex flavors, for more than 25 years. He has shared this knowledge in some of the nation’s top restaurants, including Fearings’, where he currently serves as director of wine and.

“Each wine is so unique with its own flavor and history,” says Paul. “Whenever I try a new wine, I feel like a kid opening a present on Christmas Day.”

In August 2006, D Magazine noted that Paul is one of three sommeliers in Dallas with the potential to become the city’s first Master Sommelier, a distinction held by only 138 sommeliers in the world. He is currently recognized as an Advanced Sommelier by Court Master Sommeliers and is studying to take the Master exam. He is a member of the Society of Wine Educators.

At Fearings’, Paul oversees the restaurant’s beverage program, including extensive wine lists and special wine pairing menus. He joined Fearings’ in 2007 from The Mansion on Turtle Creek and previously at Mary Elaines at the Phoenician Resort in Scottsdale Arizona. During his time as lead sommelier at Mary Elaine’s, he was a member of the team recognized with the Wine Spectator’s Grand Award, AAA Five-Diamond Award and nomination for the James Beard Foundation’s: Best Wine Service in the Country: 2001, 2003 and 2004.

An avid reader and history buff, Paul also enjoys traveling to vineyards across the world to continue sharpening his education in the field.”

Hunter Hammett

SOMMELIER

Traveling around the world at an early age tasting the unique local cuisines, traditional beverages, and experiencing different cultures cultivated Hunter Hammett’s passion for wine. This remarkable experience, while completing a degree at the University of Dallas, sparked his interest to learn more about this world and its delicacies.

"Having had stunning food and beverage comparisons, such as stone oven pizza margarita and vino bianco Lazio in Marino or rohwurst and Dunkel Hefe-Weissbier in Munich or Mezcal and a lick of sea-salt and chili flakes in Oaxaca, I relish the opportunity to engage guests table side with my excitement and knowledge!"

Developing his skills at a local Dallas liquor store, he advanced to Senior Wine Consultant while satisfying the requirements for the Certified Sommelier, Certified Special of Wine, and Wine Century Club Distinguished Member titles.

Hammett learned to blend his knowledge of wine with fine dining service as a sommelier at The Mansion on Turtle Creek; creating an intimate environment for his guests and patrons. This experience created a dynamic partnership with Paul Botamer that has now continued at Fearing’s.

Joining the team of Fearing’s at The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas, as Assistant Wine Director, Hammett contributes to research and selection of wine, pairing food and wine for guests, and developing staff training and seminars. “Dean has created a unique environment with cuisine begging for wine and guests to enjoy it. His Buffalo Tenderloin paired with Charbono is a succulent selection!”

Hammett has also had the pleasure of serving as a judge for both the Dallas Morning News and Grapevine Lonestar International Wine Competitions to further his education and to network with other wine professionals.

Phone 214.922.4848