FOUNDER. PLANT HOARDER. WINE POURER. STORYTELLER.

WSET 2 with Merit. Introductory Certificate with the Court of Masters.

Although born in Coos Bay, Oregon, Kelsey has lived in the Upper Valley as a child, a college student (Dartmouth '05), and now an adult.

In 2017, while living in Palo Alto, California, Kelsey was invited to join a Feminist Literature Book Club led by a friend. She signed up to host the holiday party, but squeezing in a book during the chaos of December felt like too much. So she thought: wine tasting! But women! Only, there were so few female winemakers (mirroring her first career in tech). The story of Madame Barbie Ponsardin Veuve Clicquot started her down a rabbit hole, appreciating Women Winemakers and their stories in the bottles. The Glass Ceiling (bottle?!) stories spoke to her heart. Fast forward to 2024 and Putnam’s vine/yard is an expression of her love of hosting, and her love of the stories in the bottles.

When not traveling, hoarding plants, or trying new wines, Kelsey can be found driving her two kids around or walking her three dogs - Max, Lavender & Poppy.

Favorite Thing to Order: Pinot Noir

GENERAL MANAGER

WSET 2.

Sydney fell in love with Vermont a few years ago, and when she stumbled across Putnam’s, she instantly knew she had found her home. Growing up with a book always in hand, she dreamed of the day she could curl up in a cozy nook in a coffee shop or wine bar, surrounded by like-minded people. Now at Putnam’s, she’s passionate about creating that same experience for others.

What Sydney loves most about Putnam’s is that it feels like a hidden gem—difficult to explain until you step inside. As a self-proclaimed plant empath, she believes the daily "oohs" and "ahhs" the plants receive keep the energy alive and flowing throughout the space. Over time, she’s learned so much and cherishes the focus on educational drinking, allowing guests to deepen their knowledge too. Her only complaint? She can’t bring her cats to work. But as she says, “You 'wine' some, you lose some.”

At Putnam's vine/yard, Sydney curates our 'book + a bottle' reading club, and is responsible for leading all of our team members, helping to ensure a world-class experience for our customers.

Favorite Thing to Order: Barr Hill Gin & Tonic

DIRECTOR - WINE PROGRAM

WSET 3. Diploma Candidate.

Victoria has been a part of the Putnam's team from the first pour! Prior to relocating to the Upper Valley from Southern California, she managed American Golf Corporation's multi-million dollar event calendar as the Wedding and Event Sales Director.

A seasoned traveler and passionate wine enthusiast, Victoria has explored renowned wine regions including Burgundy, Chianti, and Santorini. She was living in Spain in 2022 when she and Kelsey first connected!

With hands-on experience in harvest and winemaking in the Rhône Valley, she also holds WSET Level 3 certification, and is pursuing the WSET Diploma. In her free time, Victoria enjoys documentaries, baking, and indulging her creative side with crafting.

At Putnam's vine/yard, Victoria curates our seasonal wine menus, shares her deep knowledge of wine, and leads our Wine School Classes.

Favorite Thing to Order: Sparkling Albert Bichot Crémant de Bourgogne NV Rosé from Burgundy, France

DIRECTOR - COFFEE PROGRAM

WSET 2 with Distinction. Coffee Lab International School of Coffee Trained Barista.

Julianne brews coffee with a story, using beans sourced from inspiring farmers and roasted by local small businesses. Known for keeping guests intrigued with unique drinks like the minty lemon Mazagran Cold Brew and the nutty-sweet New Orleans Iced Coffee, Julianne’s passion for coffee is clear. Stop by on a weekday morning to hear them dive into the details of coffee roasters, origins, tasting notes, and brewing techniques.

With a WSET Level 2 certification in wine, Julianne is just as enthusiastic about wine as they are about coffee and can help you pick the perfect bottle from the retail shop.

When not at work, you may see Julianne on stage (including in Shaker Bridge production Christmas show!), and contributing to the local theater arts community.

At Putnam's, Julianne has been helping to curate the coffee and craft beverage menu from the very first pours. You can find them opening up our café during the week, and when you meet Julianne, you'll want to ask what's on our Secret Menu.

Favorite Thing to Order: The Colombian Cold Brew

DIRECTOR - PRIVATE PARTIES

WSET 1.

Drawn to Putnam's by her love of creating community, Lilith joined the brunch squad in the fall of 2023, and has been pouring mimosa flights ever since. Born and raised in hospitality - with parents who met over a chafing dish - she was destined to pour stories and serve with a smile (and a silly story or two). Lilith is a graduate of Hanover High School and the University of Vermont and brings her wealth of Vermont experience to our team. Prior to joining Putnam's, Lilith worked in higher education, start ups, and event management.

When not behind the bar, Lilith can be found exploring local thrift and metaphysical shops, reading fantasy romance, drawing tarot cards, or blasting 90's grunge. Lilith loves to travel and explore new towns and art museums.

At P's, Lilith coordinates our private events, hosts our bi-monthly Witchy Wednesday Meet-Ups, and is the warm welcome that greets you at our legendary brunch service.

Favorite Thing to Order: Frosé

DIRECTOR - FOOD & BEVERAGE PROGRAM

Addie grew up on a homestead in New Hampshire, where her love for food was nurtured from a young age. Cooking alongside her mother with fresh, homegrown ingredients laid the foundation for what would become a lifelong passion. She pursued that passion with a degree from Paul Smith's College and broadened her culinary horizons during a study abroad experience in Italy.

For the past decade, Addie has traveled the world, immersing herself in diverse cultures, kitchens, and cuisines. Her global experiences have shaped her unique culinary perspective and leadership style. When she's not leading teams, Addie enjoys exploring botanic gardens, discovering farm stands, chasing waterfalls, or experimenting with new, intricate recipes just for the fun of it.

At Putnam's, she goes by "Chef Addie," and you can find her creativity in our curated food and beverage menu.

Favorite Thing to Order: Fall Freeze Slushy with Whistle Pig Whiskey

MASTER GARDENER

Certified in Sustainable Landscape Design.

Lia’s earliest memory is of a vibrant basil leaf in a sunlit room, filled with the scent of fresh pasta. That moment sparked a lifelong passion for plants and food. Surrounded by gardeners, landscapers, farmers, scientists, cooks, and chefs, she spent her life learning about the natural world.

With a background in Sustainable Landscape Design and as a Master Gardener, Lia traveled extensively before settling in the Connecticut River Valley. Now as part of the Putnam’s vine/yard team, she’s grateful to blend her love for plants, natural landscapes, and exceptional food. Every day offers the joy of working in a beautiful setting, surrounded by inspiring cuisine and atmosphere.

At Putnam's, you can find Lia tending to our secret garden, and teaching engaging Vine School classes.

Favorite Thing to Order: A Matcha Latte with Oat Milk

SOMMELIER & WEEKEND MANAGER

Certified Health Coach, Certified Specialist in Wine

Christine has worked in restaurants since she was 15, and she has a passion for sharing food and wine with friends, family, and guests. Christine loves to cook, garden, create spice rubs, tinctures, and body creams. She previously owned Lucky Black Cat Spice Co. in Woodstock, NY where she enjoyed mixing blends and honing her palate. Christine is also a Certified Health Coach and loves working with people creating healthy, balanced habits. Christine loves to travel to wine regions around the world, and learn about the wines and the people that make them.

At P’s, Christine can be found behind the bar, in the classroom, and helping to curate our incredible retail Wine Bottle shop. You’ll likely see her teaching Wine Classes and hosting Tasting Events.

A Certified Specialist in Wine, Christine will be able to help you identify the perfect pour. 

Favorite Thing to Order: Anything Italian