Meet the Team

Based in Orange County, California, Ryan is a seasoned explorer in the world of wines, renowned for his ability to source rare and exceptional bottles that captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike. Ryan's unique skill in discovering hidden gems, particularly with new, under-the-radar wines before they become highly sought after, has earned him a distinguished reputation in the industry.

For over a decade, he has journeyed to countless wine regions, from the romantic, historic vineyards of Burgundy to the luxurious, grandiose estates of Napa Valley, in pursuit of the most exciting and elusive wines. Ryan’s passion for sharing his love for wine led him to establish Golden 8 Wines, a business that stands as a testament to his commitment to quality, exploration, and discovery.

With a keen eye, Ryan approaches wine selection as a delightful treasure hunt, seeking out bottles that tell unique stories. Yet, beyond the thrill of the chase, he finds immense joy in fostering connections with fellow wine lovers. At Golden 8 Wines, Ryan invites you to embark on a journey of discovery, where each bottle is a narrative and every sip an invitation to savor life’s finer moments. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or an eager novice, Ryan’s expertise and enthusiasm ensure every encounter with wine is an enriching, memorable experience.

Reach out to him at ryan@golden8wines.com!

Curtis Chen, Development

Curtis oversees all areas of development for Golden 8 Wines, managing market entry and strategic planning, including sourcing, logistics, sales, distribution, and cellar acquisitions.  Curtis joins Golden 8 Wines with years of experience in tech and finance.

For over a decade, Curtis has collected and enjoyed some of the world's rarest and greatest wines, from bucket list Burgundy wines like DRC and Domaine Leroy and Rousseau, to timeless wines like Heitz Martha and Noel Verset and Krug Clos du Mesnil, to tiny production unicorns wines like Xavier Caillard and Benetiere Dolium and Mito Inoue. 

For Curtis, wine is more than a passion — it’s a way of collecting memories. Every bottle in his cellar carries a story, tied to a moment, place, or person that matters deeply to him. He seeks out wines from the birth years of loved ones, bottles shared with friends on memorable nights, and vintages that transport him back in time — even to pivotal years before he was born. To Curtis, wine is a time capsule, recreating the joy and connections that made those moments unforgettable.

Whether you're new to wine or want to expand your collection, Curtis is passionate about connecting with people and hearing their story.

Reach out to him at curtis@golden8wines.com!