The Truth About Sommeliers:What Wine Fans Should Absolutely know!
Truth about Sommeliers? As in the opposite of a lie?!?
Well, just more of a clarification shall we say.
I want to clarify and give wine fans confidence when ordering wine, with or without a sommelier.
People throw around the word sommelier like it means wine god. But what does it really mean?
Well, there is the dictionary definition of a sommelier.
Then there is the common “knowledge” view of what one is.
Just letting you know now, that all sommeliers are not some magic wine genie that will answer all questions and give “spot on” personalized advice.
However, if you ask the right questions and know just a little bit, you may not even need one.
Read on…
Let’s start with the actual definition:
A sommelier is a wine steward.
It is not legally protected. In theory, no education is required. None.
WHAT?!?!
In practice, however, many higher end restaurants do have sommeliers who are highly educated in this field.
Formal education helps, but it’s not required to hold the title in most restaurants. By formal education, I mean a degree from programs like the Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS) or WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust).
It’s sort of a free for all in terms of who can claim to be a sommelier. In truth, if someone isn’t actually responsible for the wine service at a restaurant, they’re not a sommelier, no matter what they tell you at a cocktail party.
Please do not automatically assume that the individual helping you choose wine in a restaurant is that knowledgeable. On the other side, wine service can be done really well without a formal title.
It is a really mixed bag of experiences:
For cost cutting reasons, many restaurants no longer have a specific person in charge of wine.
In some cases, the chef will just tell the waiter about the wines. Not to be cynical, but they also tell the waitstaff what wines to push.
In some places, the wine distributor will help them understand the wines. And sometimes… no one knows much of anything.
In one restaurant I visited, the wine list was actually prepared by the distributor. All of the wines were extremely expensive. It was riddled with misinformation as to location and varietal. The waitstaff unfortunately knew nothing.
Then there are the really inexpensive places that sell pricey wines. I am still trying to figure out how the pizza place near me has a really expensive Barolo wine listed on the paper place mat. I can’t imagine who would order it. They also have a delicious “house” wine served by the carafe. That is where my money goes.
Many wine bars have passionate servers who often know their list well. You don’t have to agree with them, of course.
Reminder:
No One Knows Your Taste Better Than You regardless of who is recommending the wine. No one!
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Advice time:
You are very fortunate if you have a knowledgeable well-trained sommelier where you are dining (at this point, it is not just eating,)
Here are some suggestions on how to have the best experience with a sommelier:
Relax, this is a conversation not a quiz.
Wine pros should help, not intimidate. Look at them as a teammate.
Many sommeliers are fantastic—passionate, approachable, and eager to help. If you find one that is condescending, judgmental, or too pushy with expensive choices it is their fault and not yours. Try to get a different sommelier.
You do not need to know anything, but do not pretend you know more than you do. Welcome any information.
The sommelier is hopefully knowledgeable about wines that match well with what is being ordered. This is where the somm can be extremely helpful. Use this knowledge. Have them explain if you don’t understand.
I strongly suggest giving a price range. (Look over the wine list and make sure your range is reasonable. I once had a price point in my head, and EVERY wine was more expensive. We ordered cocktails and never went back.)
If you see a few wines that are similar but have different price points, I always suggest asking: what am I gaining by paying more, and what am I losing by paying less? You learn a lot that way!
List any preferences you have. Perhaps, mention wines you have had and enjoyed. Also mention any that you have really NOT enjoyed. If the sommelier is really good, they may ask follow up questions to clarify.
If you do know your stuff, you certainly can be more specific. However, the sommelier will hopefully know more than you do. Find out what they can add to the conversation.
If you just want to trust the sommelier, that’s fine too. Give a price range, let them know what you are ordering, and say, “I want this wine to be a joy and delight!”
On to…
Here are some suggestions on how to have the best experience without a well trained sommelier:
Decide what you want to spend. Remember more expensive is not better or more to your taste. Do not let anyone pressure you into spending more. EVER! Don’t pressure yourself, either.
Decide what you are looking for. Is this for a big occasion, or just want a fun wine for a meal?
Ask yourself questions. Start with basics. Really basic: Do I want red or white or rosé? Sparkling? Have I had this before and did I like it?
If any of the wines are available by the glass ask to taste 2 or more. See if you like them. Even if I am ordering a glass of wine I will do this. It’s a great way to learn.
Get a wine app on your phone. With Vivino, you can scan the whole wine list and see crowdsourced ratings!
If you are eager to learn more on your own, WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) has a knowledge centre (they’re British) where you can learn a lot!
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You are in control of your wine journey.
You may have helpful people to guide you on the way. You may not.
I leave you with this question:
Where have all the tastevins gone? Sommeliers always used to carry them.
Are they even used anymore? If so, where?
Times have changed!
Go forth and have delicious wine! You can do it!! Have fun!
Exactly!!
