Interview With A Sommelier – Lisa Lazzaretto

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 lady from Switzerland, who has helped many people to discover the vast world of Wines and Sparkling Wines, her name is Lisa Lazzaretto, let’s find out about her life as a Sommelier.

Tell Us About Yourself

“My name is Lisa, I am an owner of the wine e-commerce shop Winemood in Switzerland. I have a PhD degree, Swiss Sommelier Diploma and WSET level 3.”

Do You Remember Your First Experience With Sparkling Wine? When It Was And What Kind Of Wine It Was?

“I think it was a New Year’s Eve (or Christmas party) and for sure it was a Champagne. I was not a sparkling wine lover (and not into the wine business at all) at that time, so I can hardly remember the experience with more basic sparkling wines, like Prosecco etc… The experience with Champagne was for sure very remarkable and even then I started to learn and understand more about the production methods many years later after this, it impressed me.”

What Inspired You To Become a Sommelier?

“It was a combination of things: I moved to Switzerland from Germany and had to quit my event management job. So, I was looking for something new and challenging. Since I started to work in accounting for a bulk wine trader and at the same time to appreciate more and more wine tastings, I decided to apply for the evening course of sommelier school, but sincerely without having a plan to finish it. I saw it more like a hobby. Later, of course, it was impossible to stop learning, since the information was really interesting and every level was completely different.”

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

“People and surroundings play an important role in our perception of wines. Putting even a simple wine in charming and luxurious surroundings with good company sometimes can add additional value. The opposite effect of course could be reached as well by devaluating the expensive and rare wines by drinking them with the wrong people. Wine experience is also an emotional experience.”

What Sparkling Wine Producing Countries or Regions Hold A Special Place In Your Heart?

“Of course, I am a traditional method fan. Champagne, but also Italian Trento DOC are my favorite. An insider tip: Alta Langa DOCG from Piedmont.”

Where’s The Most Memorable Place You’ve Enjoyed A Glass of Bubbly?

“In the middle of the Lugano Lake. My favorite place for Bubbles is our boat.”

Thank you, Lisa, 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 Lisa Lazzaretto. Glass of Bubbly was granted permission, to use them.