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MO Cellar Selections - Our Company

About MO Cellar Selections

In the fall of 1979, our “Kevin D. Chaney, Company – Regional Sales & Marketing Firm” was established.  Our business became one of the early Industry pioneers as a “Brokerage firm” representing only “Family” owned Wineries & Distilleries in the USA Market. Historically, the “Three Tier System” in the US Adult Beverage Industry can be very difficult to navigate for potential new suppliers & entrepreneur’s…Our firm represents these family-owned entities to break through the many walls which exist preventing news products from enter the market.

Our firm provides the following services (but not limited to) on behalf of our Supplier clients:

  • Guide our clients through the “Three Tier System”
  • Utilizing our “45 plus years” of established relationships at all three levels
  • Assist our International clients to arrange an “Importer” if needed for Warehousing, Logistics and Compliance matters.
  • Assist our Domestic clients to arrange “Local USA” Warehousing, Logistics & Compliance matters.
  • Represent our clients in all aspects related to their portfolio of products
  • Open “New State” markets building market by market “Distribution”
  • Manage all matters related to the Assigned/Appointed Wholesaler’s in each market
  • Manage all matters related to Sales, Marketing, social media, Administration & most importantly all “Consumer Awareness” initiative’s
  • Manage presentations to National & Super Regional Chain accounts for On & Off Premise Corporate or Independent

In sum, our firm is a group of very humble longstanding industry experts. These highly experienced team members have their own very unique skill sets and many strategic relationships. These individuals come from the Wholesaler, National Account, On & Off Premise Retail & Restaurants, Marketing & Supplier sides of the industry. 

michael-ogurek-wine-brokers
Email Michael: mogurek@kdchaney.com

Mr. Michael S. Ogurek

Owner & President

In 1988, Michael graduated from the University of Detroit with degrees in Liberal Arts & Business. Prior….He was taught by the Catholic Nuns in Grade School, the Christian Brothers at his High School, Brother Rice High School in Birmingham, Michigan & finally the Jesuits Priests at the University of Detroit…to say the least he experienced a lot of different views and opinions…

In 1991, Michael was accepted into the Ernest & Julio Gallo Winery – “Sales & Marketing Development Program” which at the time was the largest winery in the world. In 1992, Michael was accepted into the J. Lewis Cooper Wine & Spirits Co. in Detroit, Michigan. During the following several years, he enjoyed many positions within the distributor. To name a few: Sales Manager, Brand Manager, District Manager, Market Manager, Key Account Manager, Sales Rep, E & J Gallo Merchandiser, Assistant Sales Manager & then again as Key Account Manager in 1999.

In early 2000, Michael accepted a position within the Kevin D. Chaney, Co. “Wine Brokers” Marketing Firm in Cincinnati as a Regional Sales Manager & Key Chain Account Mgr. In 2002, Michael was promoted to Vice President of Sales. Michael worked with the firm until early April 2019 when, Michael achieved the opportunity to purchase the 40 year old Wine Marketing Company in these Midwest United States.

Michael is proud of his 30 years in the wine industry developing his knowledge and is honored & humbled to have worked “for or with” the E & J Gallo Family, the Castello Banfi family, The Freixenet USA & Ferrer Family, The Schmitt Sohne Winery, The San Francisco Wine Exchange, Allied Domeq, Bacardi Imports, Brown Forman, to name a few international & National wine companies.

Michael’s true passion is visiting all areas of the world that love food & grow grapes, when not traveling for work, his passion is being at home, collecting Antiques, enjoying American & European History and most importantly spending time with his family, Ranay his best friend, Chloe his beautiful daughter & his infamous buddy “Bentley” the Silver lab!

As of April 8th, 2019 Michael is the New Owner & President of MO Cellar Selections, LLC – Wine Brokers

A Special Thank You!

“Even in today’s world, there are still those that understand the true meaning behind…”It’s a Wonderful Life”… Mike & Dawn you will always be the “New” Wine Brokers most trusted & true friends! Thank you so very much!”

Ms. Susan Hayes

VP OF SALES - PARTNER - PACIFIC COAST DIVISION

MO Cellars is pleased to have Susan Hayes join our team on the Pacific Coast. You may remember her as Sue Schubert –long time Wine and Spirits Buyer for Costco. We are pleased that Sue has decided to come out of retirement to be our V.P. of Sales in the Pacific Northwest. Sue’s buying career expands decades and has allowed her to travel the world, meet notable personalities in the wine and spirits industry and study with experts; including earning her W.S.E.T. Certificate.

Sue has worked with Distributors and buying offices throughout the United States -her industry experience is without reproach and truly invaluable. Sue is passionate about friends, travel, art and especially food, wine and spirits. Upon leaving the corporate world, while vacationing in Hawaii, Sue met a local artist who was conducting painting classes on the Island of Kona.

She joined the class and soon the painting hobby ignited anew passion within. Sue has started her own business painting pet portraits. These commissioned portraits have been purchased all over the USA and as far as the UK. Susan lives in Washington State with her companion Rick. They enjoy boating the beautiful Washington lakes, traveling to Mexico and Europe and most of all spending time with their seven grown children, and five grandkids.

Ms. Lexie Curtis

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & ADMINISTRATION

Lexie Curtis was born and raised in Holly, Michigan. In 2024, Lexie graduated from Ferris State University with a degree in secondary education, majoring in English education and minoring in physical education. Upon graduation, Lexie
returned to Holly, where she began looking for jobs in administration. Lexie is looking forward to beginning her career in the alcohol beverage industry with MO Cellar Selections!

In her free time, Lexie enjoys reading, baking, and being outdoors. She is an avid lover of sports, both playing and watching them. She enjoys golfing, playing volleyball, and watching soccer. Most of all, Lexie enjoys spending time with her family, including her parents, sisters, nephews, and fiancé, Garrett. Lastly, Lexie also loves spending time with her two cats, Poppy and Puma.

Ms. Kate Freed

Director of Social Media

Kate graduated from Michigan State University in the spring of 2026, with a degree in Advertising Management, also majoring in psychology and minoring in business. During her time at MSU, she gained a lot of valuable sales and marketing experience working for companies such as MSU Greenline and The Lodges of East Lansing. Towards the end of her time at MSU, she started working with Mosea Marketing as an on-campus Content Brand Ambassador for their new campaign promoting the newly released Fireball Blazin Apple product.

In her free time, Kate loves cooking, baking, and hiking. She also enjoys watching baseball and playing tennis. She is an avid reader and loves to spend time with her friends and family, as well as her dog, Chief.

Mr. Walter Seligman

SENIOR STRATEGIC ADVISOR

Walter Seligman, Industry Expert and Direct “Consult” to the Wine Brokers Executive Team as it relates to the Eastern Seaboard from Maine to Florida.

Walter is a Wine Professional with more than 35 years experience in all tiers of the three-tier system. Having worked extensively in the restaurant industry early in his career, then in retail wine sales in Washington, D.C. and distributor management with Forman Bros. His first supplier position was helping to build Louis Martini and Wente wines, from there he helped build brands across the country such as Beaulieu Vineyards, Clos du Bois, William Hill, G.H. Mumm, Perrier Jouet, Atlas Peak, Campo Viejo, Rosenblum Cellars and most recently Hammeken Cellars, Spain.

Walter lives in a rural part of Virginia with his wife Dawn. In his free time he enjoys hiking, fishing, swimming, and most of all spending time with his two grown children, and two young grandkids.

Mr. Phillip Piranio

SENIOR STRATEGIC PORTFOLIO ADVISOR - NORTH AMERICAS

Phillip Piranio is a veteran of the wine industry with over 30 years of experience in brand development, market expansion, and distributor management across the U.S. He began his career with E&J Gallo Winery and held leadership roles at the top winery & spirit companies, including Terlato Wines, Chateau Ste. Michelle, Constellation Brands, Opici Imports, Precept Wine, Vintage Point, and Sur Valles.

One of Phillip’s most notable accomplishments is the creation and successful launch of Cannonball Wine, a brand that achieved national recognition for its strong market presence and quality. Over the years, he has launched numerous successful brands, opened new markets, and built long-standing relationships with distributors and retail partners nationwide.

Raised in The Bronx, New York, Phillip’s early experiences shaped his work ethic and leadership style. A graduate of the University at Albany, he was the captain and MVP of the varsity baseball team and was selected as a New York State Collegiate All-Star, which earned him the rare opportunity to play at the old Yankee Stadium—a highlight that speaks to his drive and competitive spirit.

Now residing in Westchester County with his family, Phillip remains deeply committed to his business, faith, and loved ones. He believes that success in any area of life requires unwavering focus, dedication, and the willingness to give 100% effort at all times.

Mr. John Purcell

DIRECTOR OF SALES SOUTHEAST DIVISION -FL, GA, SC, NC, LA

Mr. Lex Declet

SENIOR DIRECTOR “STRATEGIC BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT”

With over two decades of experience in the entertainment industry, Alexis Declet, also known as “Lex,” is a seasoned Brand Strategist known for crafting dynamic, market-driven solutions that elevate brands and drive measurable growth. Specializing in business development, marketing, sales, product placement, and product management, Lex has consistently delivered impactful strategies that connect brands with audiences in meaningful ways.

Throughout a 20+ year career spanning film, television, music, and digital media, Lex has worked with Warner Music Group, major studios, talent, and global consumer brands to develop positioning strategies that maximize visibility and revenue. His deep understanding of market trends, consumer behavior, and entertainment culture enables him to create campaigns that resonate and convert.

A master of cross-functional collaboration, Lex blends creativity with commercial insight—bridging the gap between artistic vision and business objectives. Whether launching a new product, reimagining a brand identity, or forging high-value partnerships, Lex brings a strategic edge and a results-driven mindset to every project. Outside of work, Lex loves great cigars, vintage cars, art, music, traveling, films, and spending time with his close-knit friends and family.

Ms. Ranay Ogurek

RNO STRATEGIES/CONSULTING - CONSUMER & BRAND AWARENESS

Ranay Ogurek is a key executive at MO Cellar Selections, where she plays a pivotal role in aligning sales, product development, and customer service initiatives to drive our collective business goals forward. With extensive experience in developing and executing social media marketing strategies, Ranay is passionate about growing our brands’ visibility and strengthening customer loyalty.

She oversees the implementation of consumer awareness campaigns, guides brand ambassador initiatives, and manages high-impact promotions — from in-store demos and special events to comprehensive portfolio public relations campaigns.

Through her leadership, Ranay inspires and supports our team in delivering exceptional, cohesive, and results-oriented marketing programs. Outside of the office, Ranay finds happiness in gardening, soaking up the sunshine by the pool, exploring nature trails, traveling, collecting antiques, and making holiday memories — especially during Christmas — with her family. Above all, Ranay values time spent with her daughter, Chloe, family, close friends, and their furry companion, Bentley.

Ms. Madison Hamlin

DIRECTOR OF SALES - GREAT LAKES REGION

Madison Hamlin is from Novi, Michigan, but is now a resident of Fenton, Michigan. She has worked in the Michigan real estate market for the past few years. She has enjoyed the relationships she has made and learning about the changing market. She is excited to meet many new people as a Director of Sales at MO Cellar Selections.

In her free time, Madison is very social and enjoys spending time with family, friends, and her cat and dog. She loves to play tennis and golf, along with exercising in her free time. She loves warm weather and especially enjoys boating during the beautiful Michigan summers.

Mr. Chadwick Mahle

DIRECTOR OF SALES - GREAT LAKES REGION

With nearly 30 years of global experience, Chadwick Mahle has built a career defined by world-class service and strategic brand growth. His journey began in 1995 at Dublin’s legendary Lion’s Den, followed by years in Scotland and the UK mastering Scotch and molecular mixology under industry icons like Fraser Hamilton.

After establishing himself as a top-tier Sommelier and General Manager at some of the nation’s premier restaurants in Miami, Chadwick transitioned to the distribution side in 2009. At RNDC, he was instrumental in building powerhouse brands like Casamigo sand Fireball, ultimately becoming a top salesperson for Remy Cointreau USA. An entrepreneur at heart, he later moved to Denver to open Vinue, a pioneering wine and cocktail bar featuring over 60 wines on tap.

Most recently, Chadwick served as Beverage Director for TRP, overseeing 14 restaurants and earning multiple awards for his curated menus. He currently serves as the Market and Sales Manager for Rock N Roll Tequila, driving expansion and depletions across Michigan, Wisconsin, Missouri, and Chicago.

Mr. Jean-Baptiste Caillet

Senior Advisor/Director of Hospitality & Client Development

Jean-Baptiste (JB) Caillet was born in the Loire Valley, France. His culinary journey began at age 12 as a dishwasher in his uncle’s restaurant in Toulon, France. He later attended the University of Houston’s Hilton School of Hotel and Restaurant Management. After university, JB traveled through South America for five years, working with Francis Mallmann in Punta del Este, Uruguay. In 1994, JB arrived in New York City and started his career at Aquavit with Marcus Samuelsson, where the restaurant received three stars from The New York Times. In 1997, he helped open Balthazar as a manager, gaining invaluable experience. Building on this success, he opened his own restaurant in Brooklyn, À Table, which launched in January 2000, receiving rave reviews.

In 2002, JB opened a gourmet grocery store in Fort Greene called L’Epicerie, catering to the emerging foodie culture with imported and organic foods. In 2007, he joined Bouley as a Captain, later becoming a Service Manager, responsible for all on-premise special events in the Bouley Test Kitchen. He worked closely with Chef Bouley to tailor menus for specific guest needs and collaborations with celebrity chefs. JB then joined HP Restaurant Group in the Financial District, starting at Harry’s Steakhouse as the General Manager. Over five years, he helped open several locations, including Le District, where he served as General Manager for three years. He later opened Cecconi’s in DUMBO as the General Manager until its closure in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In 2020, Jean-Baptiste moved to Michigan and began his Michigan journey as General Manager at Toast for three years and, most recently, he served as the General Manager at Casa Pernoi.

Mr. Glynn Gutzeit

MASTER OF SPIRITS & PORTFOLIO DEVELOPMENT

Industry Expert, Mr. Glynn Gutzeit is our resident Spirits Guru. In addition to his four decades as a General Motors engineer – leading a team of engineers at the GM Proving Grounds in Milford – he has spent the past 40 years as a bartender and leading expert of Liquor Management.

For the past 20 years, Glynn has conducted numerous spirits tasting programs at Michigan State University. Glynn has also provided his expertise to many high-end on-premise events at such distinguished locations as Five Lakes Grill and Portofino’s.

Glynn has consulted for many Liquor distributors in the southeastern Michigan area on the adoption and sales of new liquor products. He has consulted with bar and restaurant owners on the opening and management of upscale properties. Finally, one of his larger accolades, Glynn created an industry manual on the mixing and presentation of cocktails.

Glynn has lived in the Highland area for more than 20 years. He has been happily married to his wife Leslie for 30 years; the couple has one son, Scott.

Mr. Lee A. Hershey

Director of Wine Education

In the 1960’s, Lee Hershey belonged to a number of Food & Wine Clubs. He loved wine & it was his hobby…Lee graduated from Michigan State University with a Business Degree. Lee has managed a number of small business & owned a few during the years. Those years led Lee to managing a series of Wine & High end Liquor establishments in Metro Detroit, Michigan. Throughout these many years Lee found employment within three very well-known wholesaler’s in Michigan. During the 70’s & 80’s Lee Hershey represented wineries from all over the world inside the Wholesaler Distribution system. In the early 90’s Lee’s reputation as premier wine educator locally led him to a “Wine Consulting business” he started where he assisted very high end On & Off Premise accounts.

Lee Hershey had the honor of being an “Ambassador” for the famous Beaulieu Vineyard Winery (a 100 year Old Napa Valley property). During his role, he managed 8 wine events each week for 4 years. Lee has been honored over the years as the “Sommelier” at the Bay Harbor Yacht Club. Perhaps his most infamous and rewarding adventure has been the last 3o years as “Wine Education Director” at Schoolcraft Culinary College in Oakland County, Michigan.

Further, Lee enjoys his occasional glass of Scotch Whiskey. Lee is a “LIFELONG FELLOW” of the Academy of Malt Scotch Whiskey Society…

Finally, if you ever ask Lee how he is doing he will likely state “I am above average today and couldn’t be doing better”…Lee is a walking “Wine Encyclopedia” and his knowledge of the 3 Tier System and the Wine Industry is without reproach…
Wine Brokers is honored to say he is part of our team!
May God Bless Him!

Administration & Marketing

Ms. Aimee Kronberger

ADMINISTRATOR

Aimee was born and raised in Michigan. Graduating from Jared Finney High School and attended Macomb Community College. She entered the workforce in the banking industry. After marrying and starting a family she put work on hold to raise her three children. After 17 years she re-entered the workforce as an Administrative Assistant for five high school Career Preparation Programs. Later finding her niche as a Legal Administrator / Office Manager in criminal defense law firms.

Living in Milford for 11 years, Aimee and her husband are renovating their current residence, a 1897 historical home. As an avid golfer, Aimee enjoys any time spent on the links. She also enjoys traveling, gardening, decorating, music and reading. Above all she loves spending quality time with family and friends!

Mr. Paul Martinez

GRAPHIC ART DESIGNER

Paul Martinez is an expert Graphic Designer with over 20 years of expertise. After graduating from Michigan State University, with a Bachelor of Arts Degree, he has worked in various capacities as a freelance graphic designer, and as an advertising/marketing designer for several well-known print advertising corporations.

His love of art and design does not stop at the workplace, as his hobbies include woodworking, an occasional scrimshaw project and getting lost in a meaningful book. An avid outdoorsman, he very much enjoys camping, kayaking and bike riding. Paul’s true passion is his wife Johannah and their two boys, Liam and Matéo.
Wine Broker’s enjoys working along side such a
talented designer and creative mind.

Mr. Steven Schwartz

ACCOUNTING

Heading up our accounting department is Steven Schwartz. Steven graduated from Michigan State University in East Lansing, MI with a BA in Business and shortly thereafter returned to Walsh College In Troy, MI and obtained an MS in Finance. Steven has also completed an Associates Degree in Accounting at Oakland Community College.

Steven began his business career working in several banks and credit unions doing credit, billing and collection work in 2015 he became a Certified Pro Advisor with Intuit QuickBooks. His expertise includes:

  • Bank Reconciliations
  • Financial Statement Analysis
  • Invoicing and Billing

Steven is known for being organized, extremely communicative and detail-oriented. He enjoys swimming daily and Classical music concerts. Steven became a Certified Pro Advisor through the QuickBooks Training process in both Desktop and Cloud Accounting Online.

Wine Brokers is fortunate to have such an organized and detail orientated individual to head up our accounting department!

Chef Joe Olson

Director of Culinary Education

Joseph Madore-Olson has had a love of cooking for as long as he can remember. He started his passion at a local favorite steakhouse where he worked and developed his passion for food. He then attended culinary school at “The Culinary Institute of Arts, LeCordon Blue in Chicago”.  Joe has worked at many different venues, from the Bears Stadium, Michelin star restaurants, and top local restaurants. He enjoys private catering events for a wide variety of clientele.

Chef Joseph’s passion and expertise is food and beverage pairings. Chef cooked for events pairing with fine wines, craft beer, and spirits. His love of cooking and unique talent caught attention from local food critics and he was featured in Hour Detroit magazine.

When he isn’t cooking he enjoys spending time with his wife of 12 years and their 2 children. They try to spend as much time as possible up north enjoying being outdoors and riding ATVs. Joseph and his wife love to travel and search for the best food and wine to enjoy.

Wine Brokers is pleased to have Chef Joe as a part of our growing team to offer excellent adult beverages and education to our customers.

Mr. Kevin D. Chaney

Kevin Chaney is the founder of “Kevin D. Chaney, Co. Wine Brokers”.

In the fall of 1979… in the month of September, Kevin began his Sales & Marketing career in the US Wine Industry. Kevin’s vision and expertise over these many 40 years has helped establish many Nationally recognized wine labels & brands across the vast United States marketplace.

Kevin is one of the true Riesling Pioneers in the market today…He was one of the original marketing minds behind Schmitt Sohnewines from Germany. He helped create what today are still category leaders in the Riesling category….For example the famed and ground breaking “Little German” Print Press advertising campaign & Relax Riesling brand which is one of the nation’s best-selling Sku’s. Kevin has represented Nationally recognized wineries such as, Justin Vineyards, David Bruce Winery, FoppianoVineyards, Byington Winery, L’AventureWinery, Laetitia Vineyards, Beckman Vineyards, Toad Hollow Vineyards, FreixenetUSA, Segura Viudas, Gloria Ferrer, Santa Carolina, Fincael Origens, Casablanca Nimbus, Baron de Ley, Laborie Roi & Dubos Frere’, DievoleWinery, PasquaWinery, Schloss Vollrads, Terra Valentine Winery, Gordon Estate, MilbrandtVinyards& many others….over so many years.

Kevin is one of the nation’s leading wine marketing minds In the industry today…Recently…Kevin has taken on a new role as an “Expert Advisor & Direct Consult” to the Brokerage Firm and its new owner Michael Ogurek…It’s hard to find these industry experts….Our organization is truly lucky to have him actively involved….

Why do we have such a competitive advantage? Versus other Wine Marketing Companies…It’s simple…Kevin D. Chaney is one of the reasons…our very long standing relationships at the Wholesale Distribution Level, at the Winery Supplier Level, at the long standing Buying Desk Level in so many On & Off Premise Chains & Independent Accounts…scattered across the towns and cities across the Midwest…
You walk around the block enough… everyone starts to know who you are….

A heartfelt thanks KDC!