Headquartered in Quincy, Massachusetts, private aviation company Magellan Jets has announced the appointment of renowned wine expert Jesse Rodriguez as its resident sommelier. This partnership sets a new standard in luxury travel, with Rodriguez spearheading bespoke experiences for Magellan Jets clients.
Rodriguez, a two-time James Beard Semifinalist, previously served as head sommelier at The French Laundry in Napa Valley and was part of the team that won the restaurant’s inaugural MICHELIN-three-star award. His background also includes roles as head sommelier at the MICHELIN-starred Addison at The Grand Del Mar in San Diego, California, and head of beverage for Montage Hotels & Resorts.
Magellan Jets’ tailored wine programs will include in-flight tastings led by Rodriguez and access to private vineyards. Rodriguez will also offer at-home wine tastings and cellar consultations, extending Magellan Jets’ client care beyond the runway.
“Jesse Rodriguez’s expertise in curated hospitality and his gift for creating personalized moments make him a perfect fit for Magellan Jets,” says Josh Lesnick, chief commercial officer at Magellan Jets, which was founded in Boston in 2008 and operates a private terminal in Bedford, Massachusetts. “Passengers fly with us to celebrate milestones, close business deals, and reconnect with the people who matter most. By bringing Jesse on board, we’re living by our belief that every journey is personal.”
“Great wine tells a story—of regions, of winemaking craft, and of the people who gather to share it,” says Rodriguez. “I’m thrilled to bring that storytelling to Magellan Jets clients, whether we’re designing a unique tasting at 40,000 feet or opening doors to hidden vineyards in Napa Valley. My goal is simple: Tailor one-of-a-kind wine journeys and transform trips into memories.”
Activations created by Rodriguez will officially launch in January 2026. Learn more about Magellan Jets’ curated experiences—which have recently included a private breakfast with Sam Kennedy, president and CEO of the Boston Red Sox, and a behind-the-scenes invitation to New England Patriots training camp led by head coach Mike Vrabel—at magellanjets.com.