sommelier
suh-mul-YAY
/ˌsʌməlˈjeɪ/
A trained wine expert in a fine dining restaurant who specializes in wine service and food pairings.
Refers specifically to a certified expert who curates wine lists and pairs vintages with food courses.
The story behind the word. Has a surprisingly humble origin: from Old Provençal 'saumalier', a pack-animal driver carrying supplies. In medieval French courts, the 'sommelier' took charge of cargo and royal wine cellars, eventually evolving into fine dining's elite wine authority.
Word relationships
- wine steward: 'Wine steward' is the traditional English term, whereas 'sommelier' is the international fine-dining standard.
- novice drinker: Someone without training or expertise in wine appreciation.
Commonly confused with
- cicerone: A 'cicerone' is a certified beer expert, whereas a 'sommelier' specializes in wine.
Word family
- sommellerie (noun): The profession or art of a sommelier.
Collocations
- head sommelier
- certified sommelier
- master sommelier
- consulting sommelier
Example sentences
- "The sommelier recommended a crisp white wine that paired exquisitely with the pan-seared scallops." Fine dining review
- "Earning a Master Sommelier diploma requires years of intensive wine study and blind tasting exams." Career profile
Memory hook
SUM-ALL-WINE-YAY! The SOMMELIER knows every wine bottle. Certified wine expert.
When not to use
Do not use for a bartender or someone serving beer at a casual pub.
Fun facts
- Fewer than 300 individuals in the world have passed the prestigious Master Sommelier exam since its inception.
Related words
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