Team
The core team consists of two of today’s most knowledgeable and experienced fine wine professionals: David Beckwith and Tim Hirsch. We represent extensive experience in all aspects of the wine industry, from auctions to retail to consulting and fine dining services. What distinguishes Grand Cru is our hands-on approach to all aspects of your collection. We will personally oversee and execute the processes involved to ensure our clients are constantly receiving the finest expertise available.
David Beckwith
FOUNDER
David founded Grand Cru Wine Consulting in 2007 with expertise in all aspects of the fine wine industry.
Soon after starting his career at Zachys Wine & Liquor, he joined the Zachys Wine Auctions team as a Specialist, personally overseeing more than $16 million worth of consignments. His responsibilities included appraisals, market research, bottle assessments, rare wine authenticity and inventory management. David’s passion then drove him to work as a Sommelier at Babbo, Mario Batali and Joe Bastianich’s flagship restaurant where he further developed his knowledge of both fine wine service and Italian wines.
Prior to joining Grand Cru Wine Consulting, David held the position of East Coast Wine Director for California-based Vintrust where he was responsible for dozens of private clients utilizing Vintrust’s wine buying and cellar management services. David has assisted with wine events throughout the country such as La Paulee, Napa Valley Wine Auction, Naples Wine Festival plus numerous private dinners at homes and esteemed restaurants. He has also worked elite wine events with some of America's most respected wine critics, notably Robert Parker of the Wine Advocate, Allen Meadows of Burghound and John Gilman of View from the Cellar.
Tim Hirsch
Project & Operations Manager
Tim Hirsch joined Grand Cru in 2014 taking on the role of project and operations manager.
Beginning at Wine Library, Tim has worked in three of the industry's major sectors; retail, wholesale, and now private consultation. As a buyer at Wine Library, he curated the store's selection of German, Austrian, and Alsatian wines. He also coordinated the early stages of the store's customer education programs, taking it upon himself to arrange in home tastings and large events with customers. Tim left retail in 2012 for a sales position at The Vine Collective, serving customers throughout the five boroughs and northern New Jersey. At work in the wholesale industry, Tim developed a deeper knowledge of the New York restaurant and retail market, in all of its constant and dynamic development.
Now Tim brings his experience working in high volume retail, wholesale, and private consultation to bear managing client inventories, performing cellar work, on demand sommelier service and event planning. His goal is to bring personal attention, thoughtful advice and a healthy serving of joy to clients and friends looking to deepen their relationship with fine and rare wines.