About
Raymond James Irwin is a Champagne expert, Knight of Champagne, and sommelier known for building meaningful experiences around wine, place, and human connection. His work is rooted in long-standing relationships with producers and a deep respect for craft, rather than trend or performance.
Irwin is best known as the founder of Fizz, an internationally recognized Champagne lifestyle brand. Over more than twenty visits to the Champagne region of France, he has developed trusted relationships with growers and houses, alongside producers across South Africa, England, Spain, Italy, Australia, Tasmania, and the United States. That depth of access has shaped his reputation for translating Champagne into moments that feel personal, generous, and grounded.
Through Fizz Luxury Travel, Irwin leads intimate journeys limited to sixteen guests, offering private tastings and behind-the-scenes visits not typically open to the public. These experiences are designed around time, conversation, and proximity to the people behind the wines.
He is also the founder of Fizz Sacramento and Fizz Walnut Creek, California’s leading Champagne bars, as well as one of the country’s most respected Champagne clubs, providing members access to rare and highly allocated bottles.
On Somma, Raymond James Irwin brings this same sensibility onboard—sharing Champagne as a point of connection, context, and quiet celebration, woven naturally into the rhythm of the week.