Sommelier

The simple definition of a Sommelier is a wine steward or wine waiter in a restaurant. The French often call this person the cellarmaster. A sommelier is a waiter in a restaurant who specializes in wine. The pronounciation of this word will vary a bit from locale to locale. Some will say saw-muhl-yay, and some will say Soh-mell-yay, I have even heard sum-mall-e-yay. Regardless, their principle task is to suggest a wine which will accompany well a particular menu, or perhaps a particular course. Because of the perception of wine, especially amongst fine diners, as a central tenet of a meal, the position of a sommelier is arguably as important as that of the Chef.



The beauty of a Sommelier (however you want to pronounce it - think Worcestershire Sauce, who can really pronounce that) is that this individual is usually a highly trained wine professional; an accredited and highly knowedgable wine expert. For a non-Sommelier who loves wine, it is a pleasure to be in the company of a Sommelier while tasting wines.

The Court of Master Sommeliers certifies professional sommeliers and only a tiny fraction of the finest professional sommeliers achieve the title as "Master Sommelier," a title equivalent to Master of Wine. The Court of Master Sommeliers was established to encourage improved standards of beverage knowledge and service in hotels and restaurants. The first successful Master Sommelier examination was held in the United Kingdom in 1969. By April 1977, the Court of Master Sommeliers was established as the premier international examining body. It took the Court ten years to perfect its qualifications, which are recognized internationally. There are three stages to attain the top qualifications of Master Sommelier:

* Introductory Sommelier Course
* Certified Sommelier Exam
* Advanced Sommelier Course
* Master Sommelier Diploma Exam

The letters M.S. after your name will reassure an employer that you are a professional beverage manager and can control an efficient, profitable beverage service.

It is very credible to note that over the two decades since the Courts first examination was held, *ONLY* 104 candidates have ever earned the Master Sommelier Diploma; a very rare and exclusive title. In the service of wine, spirits and other alcoholic beverages, the Master Sommelier Diploma is the ultimate professional credential anyone can attain worldwide.

For a large collection of wines, which you can purchase online and have delivered right to your doorstep, visit VineyardsWine.com. Vineyards Wine Online has a large selection of wines available online at very competitive prices. Delivery not available to all states. You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase.

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