The Sommelier’s Palate – Sommelier Stephane Soret, Wine Director at Raffles, Singapore

(pronounced suh-mal-‘yAy)

In Medieval Provençal times they were saumaliers, animal pack drivers who evolved during Middle French kingdom to become court officials charged with transportation of supplies. So what does a modern day Sommelier actually do? Well, Wikipedia outlines as such, “A sommelier or wine steward is 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 matching. The most important work of a sommelier is in the areas of wine procurement, wine storage, wine cellar rotation, and expert service to wine consumers.” Read More >

Afghan Biscuits, Isle of Capri Tomatoes and Broken Heart Gin

Having recently spent a few weeks on holiday in Wellington, New Zealand, I can report that we now know where the best Afghan biscuits are baked, and where the most incredible tomatoes and awesome Gin can be had—all of which have a fascinating history or story. Read More >

The Sommelier’s Palate – Francisco Javier Marambio Carvacho, Sommelier at El Mundo Del Vino, Santiago de Chile

“I recently tried a Chilean vineyard Nebbiolo Cresmachi Furlotti 2004, which was spectacular, very good evolution in the bottle, a revelation.” Francisco Carvacho, Sommelier at El Mundo Del Vino, Santiago de Chile Read More >