I’ve long joked that “in my next life I’m going to be a sommelier.”
It’s funny how one casual conversation with friends can put us on the path we were always destined for, especially when those friends are those whom you trust implicitly.
What is a sommelier anyway? Merriam-Webster defines a sommelier as “a waiter in a restaurant who has charge of wines and their service: a wine steward.” Wikipedia defines a sommelier as “a trained and knowledgeable wine professional, normally working in fine restaurants, who specializes in all aspects of wine service as well as wine and food pairing.”
I’ve long been interested in wine. I love attending formal tastings and learning about the wine-making process. I’m awed by the many factors that go into creating a great bottle of wine; climate, soil, elevation, date of harvest, stainless or oak…I could go on and on. A bottle of wine is a manifestation of man using science and art, working with nature, to create a beautiful and complicated end product. Absolutely fascinating and beautiful. And, of course, delicious.
My level one sommelier training has taught me a great deal. I now know about major grape varietals and their characteristics, how to read wine labels, how to use labels to choose good wines, how to properly taste wine, how to serve wine, and the basics of pairing wines with foods.
I am having so much fun! I feel like a kid playing at the park…trying out all the equipment…excited about every new discovery…thoroughly entertained. I’ve long known I have an insatiable desire to learn new things, and this is oh so satisfying!
I have completed all level one coursework, passed the test, and earned my certificate!
It didn’t take long for me to decide to keep going. Level two will be an entirely different experience. The textbook type learning will make way for application. Lessons are filled with blind tastings and specifics on identifying wines and varietals by observing and using my senses. Here comes the challenging stuff! I’m excited, a little nervous, and highly motivated.
I’m working on procuring several specific wines for my required blind tasting labs, acquiring new tasting tools, and I’m setting up tastings at my home with friends so I can practice and hone my skills.
I’m so grateful for great, supportive friends, and I’ve realized that it’s never too late to pursue your interests, regardless of what they are or whether or not you intend to really “use” them.
