The Journey of ASI’s 5 Best Sommeliers of the World 2020
Considering the level of expertise required in the industry, becoming a sommelier isn’t an easy task. Sommeliers across the world are required to take four tests that conclude with the highly coveted Master Sommelier Test.
What’s more, winners and certified sommeliers from around the world participate in an international battle of wine experts to win the title of ASI Best Sommelier in the World. Over the past 40 years, a small number of 230 individuals have managed to pass the fourth test.
From blind tests to questions regarding food pairing, there is no scope for error if one wishes to become the best sommelier in the world. However, certain men and women have accomplished this task and have gone on to become the best in the field.
Here’s the journey of the 5 best sommeliers in the world who jumped every hurdle, worked hard and made countless sacrifices to be where they are- at the top!
1. Marc Almert, Germany
Marc Almert, the 27-year old sommelier from Cologne, Germany, went on to become the ASI Best Sommelier of the World. This young man started with dreams of becoming a physicist but swayed towards the hotel industry shortly after passing his university examinations.
He began his sommelier journey from the Excelsior Hotel Ernst and then at the Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten, which was his first sommelier job. In 2017, he became a sommelier at Pavillion, the restaurant at the world-famous Baur au Lac Hotel in Zurich.
His passion for his line of work, humility, desire to constantly learn and grow have been the key factors in his professional success. Marc also bears detailed knowledge of other beverages like coffee, sake, tea, beer, as well as cigars to add to his profound knowledge of wine.
2. Nina Højgaard Jensen, Denmark
Nina Højgaard Jensen, the female head sommelier at the famous Kong Kans Kælder, is the runner-up for the ASI Best Sommelier in the World award. However, getting to second place in this prestigious event wasn’t easy.
With years of experience and training under her belt, Nina brought her dogma-free, fresh, and unique approach to the table as she excelled in the championship. Her knowledge comprises an array of subjects including classic wines and new products.
Her recommendations are always top-tier since they come from a place of passion and hard work.
3. Raimonds Tomsons, Latvia
The Latvian sommelier, Raimonds Tomsons, who grabbed the third position in the ASI Best Sommelier in the World Championships, is the ideal image of grit and passion in a fierce blend. Initially, he had plans of being a translator but went on to discover his other talents.
Without a plan in mind, he trained in a professional school to learn more about being a bartender. Then, he grabbed a role at Vincent, Riga, where he’s been for the past 17 years. Continuing his training with the Wine & Spirit Education Trust, he still wants to learn more.
4. Martynas Pravilonis, Lithuania
Martynas Pravilonis stood at fourth place in the ASI Best Sommelier in the World Championships. A sommelier at the Atelier Wine Boutique & Tasting Bar, he came to be one of the leading wine experts in Lithuania.
Pravilonis strives to learn more each day owing to his ongoing training at the London-based Wine & Spirit Education Trust School. His dedication and unique takes on the industry have taken him this far, and well, he wishes to excel further.
5. Fredrik Lindfors, Sweden
Fredrik Lindfors from Sweden is the fifth leading wine expert in the world. He works at the Grand Hotel, Stockholm in the role of head sommelier. He made it to the semi-finale of the ASI Best Sommelier in the World Championships but missed out on the final round. However, his determined attitude and continued professional training are expected to take him places!
Summing Up
The best sommeliers of the world 2020 have reached where they are only through constant hard work, continued learning, practice, and gaining experience. Their journeys are undoubtedly inspirations to people aspiring to win big in the hospitality industry.
