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Ray Isle
James Beard Award winner
- Discipline
- Other
i. Biography
It is the kind of line that sets a trade practice in motion: full-time wine writing since 2000, when Ray Isle was offered a senior editor post at Wine & Spirits magazine. From there, the work has stayed close to the same subject while the outlets changed around it. In New York City, Ray Isle now splits time between Food & Wine and Travel + Leisure, editing for readers who want wine explained without excess noise.
The Climb
Training at Rice University, Boston University, and Stanford University gave Ray Isle a broad academic base, and the writing that followed has kept that mix of range and precision. Wine criticism and editorial work demand more than palate; they ask for context, language, and consistency, all of which define the path Ray Isle has built across magazine rooms and editorial assignments.
Today
Two editorial posts anchor the current work: Executive Wine Editor at Food & Wine in New York City and Wine and Spirits Editor at Travel + Leisure. Ray Isle describes the division plainly: “I write the monthly “What to Drink Next” column as well as regular feature articles for F&W’s print issues, and I’m also the wine editor for Travel + Leisure, where I publish regular feature articles as well.” The monthly column sets a recurring beat; the feature writing allows more room; the second editorship keeps the same subject moving through a different publication voice.
Signature
Ray's signature dishes include What to Drink Next, Bottle Service, and The World in a Wineglass.
In Their Words “I write the monthly “What to Drink Next” column as well as regular feature articles for F&W’s print issues, and I’m also the wine editor for Travel + Leisure, where I publish regular feature articles as well.” “I have been writing full-time about wine since 2000, when I was offered a job as a senior editor at Wine & Spirits magazine.”
Recognition
Ray Isle’s recognition includes a James Beard Award nomination in beverage writing and an IACP Award for Narrative Beverage Writing.
Profile updated July 2026
FAQ
Asked of Ray
What is Ray Isle's current role?
As of 2026, Ray Isle is Executive Wine Editor.
Where did Ray Isle train or study?
Ray Isle trained at Rice University and Boston University.
What recognition has Ray Isle received?
James Beard Award nomination in beverage writing.
