Wine & Spirits

The Tough Ride of Scott Noorman, Elizabeth’s Beverage Director

Though it didn’t even make Time Out Chicago’s list of upcoming fall openings, there are few that seem more intriguing to us than Elizabeth, Iliana Regan’s upcoming farm to table and foraging-driven Lincoln Square restaurant. In an area of increasing dominance by scene-y concepts, it’s the real indie restaurant, a direct and personal reflection of the unique personalities involved. Which are not limited to owner/chef Iliana Regan; 312 Dining Diva talked to Scott Noorman, the one-time Alinea sommelier who’s been all over town (Trio, Graham Elliot, Powerhouse and most recently Premise) and developed a trunkful of alcohol-based tastes in tune with Elizabeth’s local, natural direction. But the most striking thing is Noorman’s personal history: he’s a wine and spirits expert who lost both kidneys to disease at 21, had a transplant, and remains on dialysis. Doesn’t that rule out his line of work? He says he can drink in moderation, but avoids beer because of other things it contains. As he says, “It’s been a tough ride, but … . I think my palate is better than ever. Your senses are heightened when your mortality is shown to you.” [312 Dining Diva]

The Tough Ride of Scott Noorman, Elizabeth’s Beverage Director