Interview With A Sommelier – Mene Fabien

The World of Wine is beautifully showcased by an army of talented Sommeliers, who help the consumer discover their next favourite bottle, understand the different regions and pair a delicious meal with the right Glass of Bubbly.

In this feature, I speak with a man who has helped many people to discover the vast world of Wines and Sparkling Wines, his name is Mene Fabien, let’s find out a bit about his life as a Sommelier.

Tell Us About Yourself

“I’m 36, raise and born near Lyon in France, got my exams in Culinary School, and after that wanted to specialize in wines. My first working experience was in Provence, then I moved to Paris, London and Nyc before settling down in Switzerland for 10 years now.”

Do You Remember Your First Experience With Sparkling Wine?

“My First experience with bubbles was probably for my 16 years old when I was doing some extra service during weekends, It Was a bottle of Henri Giraud Esprit.”

What Inspired You To Become a Sommelier?

“Actually, all the senses and the sensitivity which is in this field, such as tasting, smelling, geography knowledge, ect. I had the chance to have a teacher that could pass his passion to his students, which makes it easier.”

During Your Time As A Sommelier, What’s The Most Surprising & Interesting Thing You’ve Learnt?

“Humility and personality Interesting that is , you can travel a lot , visit vineyards, work pretty much everywhere in the world.”

With Almost All Wine Countries Make Sparkling Wine. Do You Have Your Favorites Or Preferred Regions?

“Of course, champagne region, and specifically Aube part. But I recently discovered a Few sparkling from the UK,  (Nyetimber for example) that are really impressive!”

What Was The Most Impressive Sparkling Wine Tasting In Your Life? When And Where It Happened?

“It was in Nyc, Daniel 3 Michelin star in 2010, Salon 1988.”

What Advice Would You Give Inspiring Sommeliers?

“Always be curious, stay humble, and follow your instinct.”

If You Sat Down For A Quiet Dinner, What Dish And Sparkling Wine Would You Choose To Enjoy Together?

“I would go for a nice fresh Pasta with a savory Calamars or shrimp base garnish, to go with a bottle of Krug”

Thank you, Mene, for sharing your words, knowledge and experiences with us and we at Glass of Bubbly wish you the very best for the future!

Images belong to Mene Fabien and Jaya Prosecco. Glass of Bubbly was granted permission, to use them.