Mat Pond is the founder and co-owner of The Epicurean Trader, a San Francisco specialty retailer offering a curated selection of wines, craft spirits, and artisan foods. His approach centres on discovering small-batch products from local and international producers and bringing them to customers through thoughtfully selected retail offerings.

Under Mat’s leadership, The Epicurean Trader has expanded into a business combining neighborhood stores, online shopping, cafés, and wine bars. This blend of retail and hospitality creates opportunities for customers to discover wines alongside specialty foods, while giving Mat a practical perspective on product selection and the customer experience.

As a USA Wine Ratings judge, Mat brings the perspective of an independent retailer working across food and beverage categories. His experience in product curation and retail operations informs his assessment of wines on quality, value, and packaging, with attention to their appeal on the shelf.