When wine bar Camerata opened next to Paulie's a little more than a year ago, it was an immediate hit, thanks in large part to partner David Keck, who brings a winning combination of knowledge, customer service and humor to the swanky establishment. A former opera singer, Keck knows how to work a crowd, encouraging guests to try new and unusual wines while regaling them with the history and characteristics of the region. One of Keck's wine classes is as much a comedy show as it is a lesson in wine, but he maintains a sense of professionalism befitting an Advanced Sommelier, even while cracking jokes. He does his best to keep the classy wine bar unpretentious, making it a favorite meeting place for industry professionals and wine neophytes alike. Keck is one of the founders of the Houston Sommelier Association, and as such, encouraging a love of wine and a thirst to learn more is something he readily imparts to both visitors and his talented staff.