Sommelier Lexi Strachan at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples Lobby Bar with a 2002 Millesime Rare Champagne Methuselah that holds 6 liters or eight bottles of wine. Photo courtesy Lexi Strachan
Food & Flavor
FOOD & FLAVOR
Demystifying the role of sommeliers
Unless you are a wine connoisseur, being seated in a finedining restaurant with a sommelier, referred to as a “somm” • with tastevin or sipping cup artfully suspended by a thick silver chain worn around the neck • can be intimidating. After all, no one wants to look anything but knowledgeable about quality food and the wines that best accompany a meal.