A Night to Remember: Master Sommeliers Unite for a Magical Evening
Last year, at the Southern Smoke’s Decanted fundraiser, an incredible opportunity was auctioned off – a night at the author’s house, where he would prepare snacks, and all seven master sommeliers in Houston would bring a special bottle of wine. The stars aligned, and this unique event finally took place, bringing together some of the most knowledgeable and skilled sommeliers in the world.
The Road to Becoming a Master Sommelier
To become a Master Sommelier, one must pass the Advanced exam, be invited to sit for the Master Sommelier exam, and have typically worked in the industry for at least 10 years. The exam covers all aspects of the world and industry of wine, beer, spirits, cocktails, and hospitality from a business, service, and philosophical approach. The typical pass rate is around 3-8 percent of applicants, making it an extremely challenging and prestigious title to achieve.
Houston’s Vibrant Wine Scene
Currently, there are 279 Master Sommeliers in the world, and seven of them work and live in Houston. This is a testament to the city’s thriving wine scene, driven by the high demand for wine from Houstonians. The city offers a wide range of opportunities for Master Sommeliers, from distribution and education to sales and winery ownership.
A Night of Wine and Storytelling
The evening was a magical experience, with each Master Sommelier bringing a bottle that held special meaning to them. The wines were paired with delicious snacks, and the sommeliers shared the stories behind their chosen bottles. It was a unique opportunity to see these experts come together, sharing their knowledge and passion for wine.
The Wines of the Evening
The Master Sommeliers brought an impressive selection of wines, each with its own story and significance. These included:
- Guy Stout: Stout Cabernet 2014 and Kyla, a pet-nat made from Syrah and Tempranillo
- Julie Dalton: Donnhoff Dellchen 2016 GG, a dry Riesling that paired perfectly with the rich and salty flavors of the snacks
- Keith Goldston: 2013 Olivier Bernstein Les Cazetiers, Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru, a rare and exquisite red Burgundy
- Brandon Kerne: St Aubin Derriere Chez Edouard Haute Densite Hubert Lamy 2021, 1989 Chateau Pape Clement, and 2022 Joannes Violot-Guillemard Aux Clous, Savigny-les-Beaune Premier Cru
- Steven McDonald: 2012 Ca’ Brusa Bricco San Pietro Vigna d’Vai, a Barolo Riserva that showcased the beauty of the Nebbiolo grape
- Jack Mason: Guilio Ferrari 2002, a Trentodoc from Italy that demonstrated the region’s unique alpine freshness
- June Rodil: 2007 Albert Morot Beaune Les Marconnets and Champagne Diebolt-Vallois ‘Fleur de Passion’ 2013, two wines that held special meaning and showcased her expertise
Conclusion
The evening was a celebration of wine, community, and the passion of the Master Sommeliers. It was a reminder that wine is not just a drink, but an experience that can bring people together and create lasting memories. The Southern Smoke Foundation, which organized the event, has made a significant impact on the hospitality industry, distributing over $11 million to workers in crisis. As we look to the future, we can appreciate the dedication and expertise of Master Sommeliers and the role they play in shaping our understanding and appreciation of wine.
