We had the good fortune of connecting with Mark Huddleston and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mark, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
At the time I was working as a Sales Representative for a Wine Importer/Distributor in Los Angeles. Before I had worked in restaurants for over 12 years, starting as a busboy at Chili’s and then having the opportunity to be a Sommelier at Providence and finally at Gordon Ramsay. My wife and I had just gone on our honeymoon in Bordeaux and then in Vienna. When we arrived in Vienna, my wife told me that she was not keen on going to anymore wineries. I remember then asking, “But we can go to wine bars right?” That first night in Vienna we visited a winebar and I was presented with the wine called Das Phantom. It is a Blaufränkisch, Cabernet Sauvignon & Merlot blend.

When we arrived back in Los Angeles, I thought perhaps someone is importing Das Phantom and I could by a case. I realized that no one was importing this wine, and I saw an opportunity. I discussed with my wife about opening our own import company, and we took the funds we had saved for a down payment on a Condo, and started H. Mercer Imports with Das Phantom.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
What sets us apart from our competition is our work rate, integrity and passion. We also do not add any category of wine unless it meets our standard. Profit is not our leading consideration for the wines we import. Brand standards and reputation are the driving force of H. Mercer Imports. This is not an easy process and even when we are tired we continue and hold ourselves accountable.

So many lessons learned. Balancing our passion for wine, market needs, best business practices and our relationships has been a rewarding even if difficult at times.

Our continued dedication to be an integral part of the Wine Industry and Culture is our highest held value and directive.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Hollywood Bowl, Griffith Observatory, Red Lion Tavern, beer & schnapps and then a Dodger game. Grabbing Brunch and watching Premier League at The Village Idiot Dinner in Koreatown, Thaitown, Little Tokyo, and then Verse in North Hollwood, the dinner the last night at Kali on Melrose. And if we still can keep going, we will hit Brass Monkey for Karaoke.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There have been so many people that have mentored me and colleagues who’ve inspired me. First off, my wife Cadee Wilder for believing in my capability to succeed and to give me support and confidence, but also to agree to use our savings to start this venture.

My overall time in the restaurant industry in Los Angeles, and all the professionals, and passionate people that gave me so much inspiration over the years.

Laurent Michit. Co Founder H. Mercer Imports. There is no one in the Wine Industry that exemplifies the values of dedication, integrity, and passion more than Laurent. I’m very grateful for his unending pursuit of excellence as well as his intense enthusiasm.

Our Vigneron partners around the world. Their hard work, vision, stewardship, and continued dedication to quality.

Our Team. While Laurent and I can explore, and bring our own dedication and passion, we are extremely thankful to our team of Sales Consultants, Office & Warehouse staff, as well as our logistics partners around the world. It takes many steps for H. Mercer to contribute to the wine culture of California, and we could not do any of this without the efforts of all from Winery, Logistics, Educators, Sales Consultants, Warehouse workers and Admin professionals.

Website: http://www.hmercerimports.com

Instagram: hmercerimports

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HMercerWineAndSpiritsImports/

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