Our Leadership

Connie Niehaus – “La Grande Dame” of Old World Wines, Inc.   “It is not a sin to enjoy life; it is a sin not to enjoy.” So says Connie Niehaus, and who could argue with this statement?  Enjoying each day to its fullest is what this pragmatic survivor believes and practices.  Connie’s idea is that when sharing food and wine with others it encourages and stimulates conversation and dialog between all at the table.  Ideas, thoughts, opinions and dreams appear to come alive and are shared with each other and you can feel the passion felt by the person speaking their own words. Connie is described by her husband, Michel A. Atlas, as “having a name (Constance) that fits her like a glove.” She is rock-solid and believes that her inner strength comes from being a mother.  And she makes no bones about calling it as she sees it.  You always know where Connie stands on any issue as she reminds us, “Michel may be the CEO, but I am the boss.”

Michel  Atlas: CEO Michel A. Atlas has exercised, at the highest level, the profession of Executive Chef in Belgium and France for close to forty years.  He has been associated to the best French Chefs of both Traditional and  Nouvelle Cuisine.  In the European culinary tradition, the Executive Chef is in close control of the wine selection and the wine pairing, functions that he shares with the Chef Sommelier.  Michel has performed this art for countless years and was personally introduced to the best properties and wineries of Bordeaux and Burgundy. Michel’s practical knowledge of fine wines is stunning and his presentation skills of great wines are exquisite.  You only need to spend a few moments in his company to feel the intensity of his passion for fine wines…

Michel Atlas is currently writing a book on the Art of Tasting Great Wines.
Video   Biography

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Michel Atlas and Constance Niehaus are the owners of Old World Wines, Inc. Michel  Atlas has forty years of professional experience in the food and wine industry and has been awarded with recognitions and membership from the most prestigious and exclusive wine societies in the world.
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