The Storyteller and the Sage, a new book by Williamsburg wine shop owners Eric Yarbrough and Mike Pabón, explores the emotional and sensory world of wine through fifty short stories — one for each glass of wine the authors believe everyone should know.

Blending travel writing, psychology, and reflection, the book moves beyond traditional tasting notes to uncover the deeper experiences behind wine — the people, memories, and places that shape how we drink and connect. Each story is followed by background and practical information about the featured wine, creating an easy, enjoyable way for readers to learn while being immersed in narrative.

“This book was our attempt to introduce people to wine they might not know in an entertaining, easily accessible way,” says co-author Eric Yarbrough, who brings his background in psychiatry to the project.

As a person of color, co-author Mike Pabón brings an essential perspective to the project, helping make the world of wine more inclusive and approachable. His voice in The Storyteller and the Sage reflects his commitment to opening the conversation around wine to everyone — regardless of background or prior experience.

This is Yarbrough’s third book, following two previous works focused on LGBTQ psychiatry. It’s also the first publication under La Même Chose, their Brooklyn-based store known for its curated, story-driven approach to wine education. The Storyteller and the Sage reflects that same philosophy — that wine is best understood not just by palate, but by emotion, place, and shared experience.