EscapeHatchDallas’ Wine Expert Jason Hisaw in Men’s Health Magazine

All that studying and stress to pass grueling exams–written, oral and blind tasting–to earn certification as an Advanced Sommelier led Pappas Bros. sommelier and EscapeHatchDallas wine writer Jason Hisaw on a path to weight gain.

“By the time I reached 277 pounds, I knew something had to change,” Hisaw told Mens’ Health Magazine, in a story that hits the streets next week. “I couldn’t move through the dining area as well as I used to, and I had to squeeze into tight spaces to reach my customers.”

His weight gain zapped his confidence, and he failed the blind tasting portion of the exam. A visit from his mom prompted Hisaw to resolve to lose weight, which he accomplished over the next 9 months by limiting portions, snacking on healthy foods and forgoing late night bar food.

And exercising. Hisaw took up running and weight training, has completed four half-marathons, and runs 6 miles nearly every day.

He passed his Advanced Sommelier exam weighing 50 pounds less.  A year later–and 90 pounds lighter–Hisaw is preparing for the Master Sommelier certification, the final and most difficult level for a wine professional to earn.

Read the entire story–and see before and after photos of Hisaw–in the June issue of Mens Health.

Can the Sommelier Diet be the Next Big Thing?