Are all sommeliers snobbs? Or do we just perceive them to be that way?!
Are all sommeliers snobbs? Or do we just perceive them to be that way?
I'd appreciate comments from people who actually interacted with sommeliers rather than just base comments on their own impressions. And what in your opinion makes a brilliant sommelier, besides his knowledge obviously.
Answers:
All I can say is some are, some aren't. I know a couple sommeliers personally. They know not to be snobby. Their job is to educate and work with customers and clients personal tastes. They even say that snobby sommeliers ruin the industry. If you really want white zin, they will recommend one without comment, or recommend a better white zin. And they'll work within your price range without turning up their nose. It's their job to make sure you're happy with your wine. If you want a chardonnay with your steak, they'll recommend one. A good sommelier should never look down on you.
I think we perceive them that way, although they go through a lot of schooling to get where they are. There is a lot in their training. A brilliant Sommelier to me is someone that can help with wines & food without acting like they know everything!
I deal sommeliers all the time, I work for Marriott International and at the private guesthouse for the richest man in SC. I think they come across snobby but that is because of the line of work they are in and the people they deal with ALL the time- I have been accused of this myself, I do the actual planning for private parties and dinners, and these people have LOTS of money, but when someone gets to know me, they realize I am actually a very down to earth person. Give everyone a chance, wait until they do something to make you feel different about them!
well..my sister is a sommelier. she's not a snobb. :-)
a sommelier's passion for wine is what i think makes them brilliant.
i know a sommeliers and she's a female, to me she seems to be very nice....lol...use to give me free wine... but i never had any issues with her... i think just like all professions you will have those who have a big head...the "ego"....
but to me, what makes a great sommelier is someone who just knows what fits you...like your taste... and who can find the best wine for it...for your likes from your dislike...
and of course someone who has some knowledge of food, to be able to mix and match :)...plus someone who makes it fun and has ethusiam (spelled wrong..lol) about what they do.
I am a sort of sommelier, but not a snob!
I think some people are intimidated by how much there is to know about wine. But it's fun to learn, and it should be all about drinking what you like!
Besides the knowledge of wine, a sommelier must have people skills and give great service, along with possessing sales and marketing abilities.