Chris Simmons, a South Dakota native and former Division I wrestler, built his career in hospitality after moving to San Diego in 2012. At Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa, he curated his first large-scale agave program and launched the All Agave Club, later leading acclaimed agave pairing dinners with top chefs from Southern California and Baja. In 2017, he co-founded Sipping Life, offering tastings and tours, and now serves as National Agave Spirits Specialist for Samson & Surrey, representing Tequila Ocho and Mezcal Vago. Simmons is a Level Two Master Mezcalier, Certified Catador, and holds advanced sommelier credentials.