Roberto ViernesRoberto Viernes achieved the coveted title of Master Sommelier in 2005. He travels extensively to classic wine growing regions around the world to gain an even better understanding of wine and is also active in teaching courses and testing with the Court of Master Sommeliers. He has a special love for Champagne and Burgundy. He has also been a judge at the prestigious U.S. National Sake Evaluation five separate times. Having worked in restaurants, retail, supplier and distributor settings for 26 years Roberto has always dreamed of putting together a portfolio of family producers to represent in Hawaii and started the relaunch of Lotus Wine and Spirits as Managing Partner in 2024 to achieve that dream. Roberto is an author and wrote Vino Sense, a weekly column in MidWeek Magazine for a decade. He is now a contributing writer for HI Luxury Magazine. Roberto launched his first wine FIL Pinot Noir with the stellar 2015 vintage, a project grown in the Willamette Valley, Oregon. Roberto is also a founding board member of Aloha Wine Foundation, an organization dedicated to the local sommelier community.
Follow him on Instagram @filwines. |
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Benny MadsenBenny Madsen, a Danish national and accomplished wireless system design innovator, holds a Ph.D. from the University of Aalborg. With 19 design patents, he is recognized as a leading engineer and visionary in the wireless industry. Benny contributed significantly to the development of the first GSM mobile phone at Dancall Radio A/S and served as Technical Director at National Semiconductor. As the CEO and Chairman of LitePoint, he played a key role in establishing the company as a top test solutions provider for leading wireless device manufacturers. Additionally, Benny is a Partner at LiteCap, a private equity firm supporting next-generation companies. He sits on the boards of two Danish startups and serves on the Board of Advisors to Innovation Center Denmark Silicon Valley. Beyond the tech world, Benny owns Los Altos Vineyards, encompassing Byington Vineyard & Winery and Tin Cross Vineyards, and is the owner of Oceans Royale, an Oahu-based company providing luxury villa hotel services.
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Aloha! My name is Emily Karkanen, and I’m excited to introduce myself as the newest Sales Representative for Lotus Wine and Spirits.
Originally from a small town near Portland, Oregon, I moved to O‘ahu in 2017 and instantly felt at home in the island’s community and natural beauty. With an adventurous soul and a deep love for people, culture, and connection, I’m truly grateful to be part of this incredible wine and spirits ‘ohana. Through my life and travels, I’ve discovered just how powerful drinks, food, and culture can be in bringing people together. I’ve developed a genuine appreciation for handcrafted, artisan wines—especially during my time spent in Northern California. Seeing the care and passion poured into every bottle only deepened my love for wine and the stories it tells, from grape to glass! I’m excited to continue learning, growing, and sharing my passion with our amazing community here on the island. I can’t wait to connect with you all, and raise a glass together soon! |
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LOTUS WINE & SPIRITS
521 Ala Moana Blvd, Suite M-426 Honolulu, HI 96813 |