VINUM NORICUM is a Los Angeles based "boutique" wine trader whose mission it is to introduce the finest Austrian wines from small family owned wineries to American wine connoisseurs.

Founded in 2003 by Reinhard Kargl and Monika Ploner, VINUM NORICUM excels in finding and importing wines which were passed over by large mega-importers because of the small quantities produced and their lack of "mass market appeal".

Reinhard Kargl is an independent journalist and producer specializing in science and technology. He works for film, television and special events projects and writes for leading publications worldwide.

Monika Ploner is an event producer and promoter. In 1998, the two partners launched their event productions firm, The Satin Ballroom Productions, which has produced and promoted about 50 major live shows.

Both partners were born and raised in Austria, where culinary arts played a major role in their upbringing and culture. An old friend from Austria brought up the idea of importing wines from "back home". And so, after two years of research and development (and several assorted state, federal and local licenses and permits later) VINUM NORICUM, a division of The Satin Ballroom, was ready for business.

Last Update: January 25, 2006

© Vinum Noricum 2005 - 2006