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Sommelier

Pronunciation: zo-me-lieh Also known as: Sommelière

Wine professional in hospitality and retail, responsible for selection, purchasing, storage, service and advice on wine and drinks.

A sommelier is a specialist for wine and often for other drinks as well. Typical tasks are compiling the wine list, buying and storing wine, advising guests, recommending wine to match the meal and serving it properly.

The job title is not legally protected in Germany. There are, however, recognised training programmes and exams, for example from chambers of commerce or international wine organisations. Anyone calling themselves a sommelier should be able to demonstrate knowledge of growing regions, grape varieties, tasting and service.

Related terms

DecantingWinemaker (vintner)

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