Marian Jansen op de Haar
Marian began her food and wine career in 1978, upon her move to the United States from the Netherlands. She first developed an expertise in both cheeses and wines in gourmet shops and as her knowledge of fine wines evolved, Jansen op de Haar worked for several wine distributors and subsequently as a sommelier for two renowned restaurants in Phoenix, Arizona. She later served as a manager for Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse in Scottsdale and as Wine Director for Fleming’s for the last 10 years.
At Fleming’s Marian was responsible for the management of the award-winning wine list and overall wine program. Setting Fleming’s apart from other fine dining establishments, Jansen op de Haar developed a wine-by-the-glass program, known as the Fleming’s 100, that is renowned for its depth and innovation. Under her direction, Fleming’s is consistently recognized by Wine Spectator magazine’s annual Awards of Excellence and Wine Enthusiast’s Awards of Distinction. While at Fleming’s she developed an extensive internal wine curriculum for all associates, managers and partners. She organized wine country trips and seminars for management and Fleming’s customers. She is a frequently invited guest as the wine expert on television and radio shows. She has been a speaker numerous times at both trade and public events. She has been a judge for the LA County Fair Wine Competition as well as for the PBS television show, The Wine Makers and she has written many articles for publications throughout the country.
Marian has crafted a private label wine for Fleming’s called Forty-Six Diamonds for the last five years partnering with different premium wineries and their winemakers. She was responsible for Fleming’s cocktail list and special event cocktails for the last two years. Throughout her tenure at Fleming’s she has formed partnerships with wineries, importers and liquor companies and has reduced beverage cost consistently each year. Fleming’s liquor mix has been one of the highest by industry standards for the last 10 years.
After more than ten years as Wine Director, she is now consulting for Fleming’s.
Marian is a certified Sommelier and holds a BA & an MA in Psychology.