about · sommelier & owner

hi, I'm Jennifer.

Jennifer Roberts-Darcel. Certified sommelier, former wine director, and your new wine chick in St. Augustine.

Court of Masters Certified Sommelier WSET Level 3 Italian wine specialist
somm since2011
why pop!

down to earth wine

"I started pop! because I want to bring down-to-earth, easy wine education and service to this town."

You have a mechanic and a mortgage broker and a preferred dental hygienist and, I don't know, maybe even a fishmonger. People you trust to help you in specific areas of your oh-so-busy life. That's why you need a personal sommelier to get you out of the overpriced grocery wine aisle and back to the business of entertaining, celebrating, or just getting through a Tuesday evening some weeks.

I spent years running wine programs in some of Southern California's most esteemed restaurants. But why should only the models and NFL stars get to have all the fun? My mission is to level the barrier of entry on wine. Everyone deserves to drink well for a decent price point, and all that requires is a little knowledge.

credentials & experience

the fine print

  1. 2010

    WSET Level 3 Award in Wines

    Wine & Spirit Education Trust. The advanced, internationally recognized wine qualification covering the world's major regions, grapes and winemaking.

  2. 2011

    Certified Sommelier

    Court of Master Sommeliers. A service-focused exam in blind tasting, wine theory and hands-on restaurant service.

  3. SoCal

    Wine Director, Market Restaurant + Bar

    Ran the restaurant's wine program as wine director.

  4. SoCal

    Sommelier, The Marine Room

    La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club's landmark oceanfront dining room.

  5. now

    Founder, pop! wine shop

    Private tastings, wine education, pairing dinners, cellar curation and staff training in St. Augustine, Florida.

my wine personality

what I pour for myself

my expertise
Italy

I LOVE Italy, and it's my expertise. Ask me anything about Italian wine, from the famous names to the everyday bottles that make a Tuesday feel like a trattoria.

my heart
Riesling

But Riesling has my heart. Bone dry to lusciously sweet, with that electric acidity, it's a grape everyone should give a second chance.

where it started
Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Châteauneuf made me fall in love with wine. It's the bottle that started this whole thing.

kind words

the reviews are in

We had the BEST wine tasting event thanks to Jen! She's absolutely amazing!! Super knowledgeable about every wine and explained everything in such a way that was easy to understand and so much fun. Her enthusiasm and inviting personality made me excited to try each wine. If you're looking for an outstanding sommelier who can bring both expertise and fun to your event, look no further. I can't recommend Jen enough!
Katelyn K.google review
Jenn is the bomb! If you're looking for a laid back, pressure-free experience that feels warm and welcoming, Jenn is your girl! She can make everyone feel at ease whether you're a seasoned wine lover or if it's your first time! I can't wait to do another wine tasting with her!
Alexis K.google review
I have done multiple wine tastings with Jenn. Her knowledge of wines is exceptional and with the themes of each tasting her wine selections are always spot on. I can't wait to do another tasting with Jenn. They are literally a blast!
MaryAnn K.google review
let's drink something great
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