Being a Sommelier is a unique art and is very appreciated in the world of wine and gastronomy. This professional is trained and knowledgeable about wine normally works in fine restaurants and specializes in all aspects of wine service as well as wine and food pairing.
But what are the most important aspects of being a sommelier? What responsibilities do they have? All your questions and more will be answered through this article.
One of the most important aspects of being a sommelier is the creation of appropriate food and wine pairings. This happens behind the scenes and involves the participation of culinary team members. At some restaurants, the job title of a Sommelier is considered to be equivalent to that of chef de cuisine. In many ways, this is especially true in restaurants with long, extensive wine lists that might include 200 or more wines.
Another important aspect to know about the Sommeliers is that they know which wines a restaurant has both on and off the wine list, and can help you find the right wine for your meal or occasion.
Moreover, he or she is responsible for the development of wine lists, and books and for the delivery of wine service and training for the other restaurant staff. Working along with the culinary team, they pair and suggest wines that will best complement each particular food menu item. This entails the need for a deep knowledge of how food and wine, beer, spirits, and other beverages work in harmony. Plus, a professional sommelier also works on the floor of the restaurant and is in direct contact with restaurant patrons. They have the responsibility to work within the taste preferences and budget parameters of the patron.
Normally the wine education of this professional is typically accredited through professional organizations like the Court of Master Sommeliers or the Wine and Spirit Education Trust.
So, considering all this, when in a fine dining restaurant, where you start looking at their massive and incredible wine list, or one where the wines you recognize are not wines you want to drink? Ask for the sommelier. They can tell you what the restaurant specializes in, help you find good values on the list, or even recommend those special and rare wines that don't consist of the menu of the restaurant but are sacred and guarded for incredible and special occasions.
Also while having an incredible gastronomic experience in a fine dining restaurant, since they are known to propose this kind of experience, try to connect with the sommelier and learn from this professional. They can help you in a variety of ways. This will guarantee a fantastic and over-the-top gastronomic experience as well as a wine experience too.
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