New Year...New Goals

It is now two weeks into the New Year and a new me...well here is hoping. I can't help but think about one of my huge goals for the year. The Sommelier Exam. I have recently started studying again. I look forward to completing this certification in the fall. With that being said, a lot goes into preparing for this exam. This is a three part exam involving a blind tasting, written exam and a service exam.

The blind tasting is the most exciting, expensive and challenging portion. It takes, time, money and diligence to prepare one's palate for a blind tasting. I find tasting with other people is the best way to prepare. It always helps to compare notes and hear additional descriptors. As I begin to taste my way around the world I invite you to taste with me. Due to my current craving for Malbec from Argentina, I find that to be the most appropriate place to start. Tasting notes will follow in the next few weeks.

The written exam is the most obscure. It tests each student on their detailed wine geography and wine pairing knowledge. Preparing for this portion of the exam reminds me of finals in college. There never seems to be enough time to cram. Currently, I am re-reading the textbook, Sales & Service for the Wine Professional, I am trying to focus on the bigger picture before memorizing every detail and wine region.

Finally, The exam finishes with a service exam often involving Champagne. In between tasting wines from around the world and memorizing first growths in Bordeaux, I will be popping a few corks, so I invite you to join me for some bubbles!

As I progress and my knowledge base continues to expand I will share some of my favorite wine facts!

Cheers to the New Year and new wines to taste!