Meet Frederick Hill | Sommelier | Serial Entrepreneur | Who’s Who In America

We had the good fortune of connecting with Frederick Hill and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Frederick, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
When I decided to start my own business, there were several key factors that influenced my thought process. Firstly, after spending 27 years in the IT field as a Solutions Architect, I had gained extensive knowledge and experience in the industry. I felt that it was the right time to leverage my expertise and embark on a new venture.

I developed a deep passion for wine and the art of tasting. I saw an opportunity to combine my IT background with my love for wine by creating a tech-based wine and tasting room, NAVI Wine & Tasting Room & Noir Studios. This innovative concept allowed me to blend my technical expertise with the world of wine, providing a unique and immersive experience for wine enthusiasts.

Additionally, I have always had an entrepreneurial spirit and desired to be in control of my own destiny. Starting my own businesses (NAVI Wine & Tasting Room, NOIR Studios, The NEXcel Group and NOIR Vintage Fund) offered me the freedom to explore my creative ideas, make strategic decisions, and shape the direction of the company. It allowed me to build something from the ground up and create a brand that truly reflected my vision and values.

Overall, the thought process behind starting my own business stemmed from a combination of my industry experience, passion for wine, and entrepreneurial drive. I wanted to bring something fresh and innovative to the market while pursuing my own personal and professional goals.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
NAVI Wine & Tasting Room is a tech-based wine and tasting room that combines the art of wine tasting with innovative technology. We offer a unique and immersive experience for wine enthusiasts, blending traditional wine-tasting practices with cutting-edge advancements. Our goal is to create a space where people can not only savor exceptional wines but also explore the fascinating world of wine through a digital lens.

What sets us apart from others is our seamless integration of technology into the wine-tasting experience. We use self-serving wine dispensers, state-of-the-art interactive displays, artificial intelligence (AI) technology, and curated digital content to enhance the journey of our customers. By leveraging technology, we provide educational information, virtual tours of vineyards, and interactive tasting notes that enrich the overall experience and deepen the understanding of each wine.

I am particularly proud of the innovation we bring to the wine industry. By embracing technology, we are able to engage a wider audience and introduce them to the wonders of wine in a modern and captivating way. Our dedication to offering a unique blend of traditional wine tasting and digital exploration sets us apart and positions us as pioneers in the field.

Building the business and reaching where we are today certainly wasn’t easy. Like any entrepreneurial endeavor, we faced numerous challenges along the way. One of the primary challenges was bridging the gap between the wine industry and technology. We had to overcome skepticism and resistance from traditionalists who believed that technology would detract from the authenticity of the wine tasting experience. However, through persistence, education, and demonstrating the value-add of technology, we were able to change perceptions and gain acceptance.

Another challenge was establishing our brand in a competitive market. We focused on creating a strong brand identity, emphasizing our commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. By consistently delivering exceptional experiences and garnering positive word-of-mouth, we gradually gained recognition and built a loyal customer base.

Throughout this journey, I’ve learned several valuable lessons. One is the importance of adaptability. The business landscape is constantly evolving, and being flexible and open to embracing new ideas and technologies is crucial for long-term success.

Another lesson is the power of collaboration. Surrounding myself with a skilled and dedicated team has been instrumental in overcoming challenges and propelling the business forward. Each team member brings unique perspectives and expertise, which has allowed us to innovate and deliver exceptional value to our customers.

In terms of what I want the world to know about NAVI Wine & Tasting Room, it’s that we are not just a wine-tasting establishment. We are a fusion of tradition and technology, offering an immersive and educational wine experience like no other. We strive to make the world of wine more accessible, engaging, and enjoyable for both connoisseurs and newcomers alike.

Our story is one of passion, innovation, and a commitment to pushing boundaries in the wine industry. We believe that wine is not just a beverage but a journey of discovery, and we invite everyone to join us on that journey.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to dedicate my shoutout to my family, friends, and mentors who have been instrumental in my journey and have provided unwavering support, guidance, and encouragement throughout the years. Their belief in me and my abilities has been crucial in shaping my success.

Within my family, my love, parents and children have always been my pillars of strength, instilling in me a strong work ethic, values, and a belief in myself. Their constant encouragement and belief in my abilities have been invaluable.

I am also grateful to my close circle of friends who have supported me through thick and thin. Their unwavering support, positivity, and motivation have helped me stay focused and inspired, especially during challenging times.

Additionally, I owe a debt of gratitude to my mentors who have shared their wisdom and expertise with me. Their guidance and advice have been instrumental in my professional growth and have helped me navigate the intricacies of the business world.

A big salute to my incredible NAVI Team! Your relentless dedication, undying spirit, and remarkable support continue to be the backbone of our vision. Each one of you consistently pushes the boundaries of innovation, inspiring us all to reach new heights. You are not just a team, but the heart and soul of our mission. The way you rally together, overcome challenges, and keep striving for excellence is truly awe-inspiring. The vision we share wouldn’t be possible without your tireless efforts and unwavering belief. So, here’s to the NAVI Team – you all are the real MVPs.

In summary, my shoutout goes to my family, friends, and mentors whose unwavering support, guidance, and wisdom have played a significant role in shaping my story and contributing to my achievements. I am truly grateful for their presence in my life.

Website: www.naviwinebar.com

Instagram: @naviwinebar

Twitter: @naviwinebar

Facebook: www.facebook.com/naviwinebar

Other: Frederick Hill IG @iamfihill www.sommfrederickhill.com

Image Credits
The U.S. Black Chambers Black By Us Columbus Ledger The Sweetest Things Photography by Kima