THE SUBTLETIES OF EXPERTISE

EARNING THE DISTINCTION OF “CONNOISSEUR” can come from total dedication, following the lead of a fellow expert, or simply being surrounded by one’s craft since birth. In all instances, time is required—like the aging of fine wine. True vinos can identify and explain the nuances of certain ingredients and flavors that go undetected by casual imbibers. With vehicles, a connoisseur will choose theirs based not on the flashiest style or numbers on a spec sheet; but on the experience its ownership provides.

Neil and Tara Empson, proprietors of Italian wine importer Empson USA, undoubtedly fit the bill when it comes to both their drink of choice and personal modes of transportation.

Though Neil has been visiting Palm Beach since falling in love with the island in the mid 1970s, his daughter Tara grew up in Milan before moving the company’s US headquarters to Virginia in 2019. Shortly after, the onset of COVID-19 turned the world on its head—but granted Tara the opportunity to move to South Florida as well. Almost immediately upon her arrival, she followed her fathers’ footsteps to Braman Motorcars.

Neil had been purchasing cars through the dealership group for years; though not just any old model off the showroom floors. A titan in his industry, Neil immediately recognized a peer in Mr. Stephen Grossman and insisted on assuming second ownership of every vehicle that passed through his personal garage. The latest is Neil’s personal favorite—and perhaps most appropriate: a BMW iX M60 in a gorgeous red wine hue with subdued gold trim and emblems. For a dyed-in-the-wool internal combustion fan who has owned plenty of exotic machinery and even dabbled in a bit of amateur racing, Neil admits he is a fan of the all-electric SUV, and will likely stick with EVs going forward—though that depends a bit on Mr. Grossman, of course.

Tara’s silver 911 may appear a bit more pedestrian to the casual observer. This is by design; fellow enthusiasts will instantly recognize the 992 Turbo as the luxurious, immensely capable performer it is. Porsche’s unmatched combination of simplicity and driving experience has led to her being a loyal customer of the brand for years. She likens her current 911 to a favorite bottle of wine only broken out for special occasions— one which always delivers on even the highest of expectations and experience.

The similarities between the professional worlds of Empson USA and Braman Motorcars extend beyond their respective clients’ enjoyment of their superior products. Through their decades of combined experience, Neil and Tara have both learned that many times, relationships are what make for true success. It’s this shared emphasis on rapport that brings them both back to Braman Motorcars again and again.

The upper echelon of both the wine and automotive industries can only be reached through commitment, leadership, and time. In this respect, Neil, Tara, and Braman Motorcars stand as the truest of connoisseurs in their fields.

To learn more about Empson USA’s selection of imported Italian wines, visit EmpsonUSA.com.