Interview With A Sommelier – Amedeo Billi

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, we speak with Amedeo Billi, a Sommelier A.I.S. from Italy, who is currently helping many wonderful people to discover the vast world of Champagne and Sparkling Wines at Sandy Lane Hotel in Saint James, Barbados, let’s find out about his incredible life in the world of wine.

Please Tell Us A Little About Yourself & Your Journey Into The Wine Industry?

“My name is Amedeo, and I was born and raised in the heart of the Tuscan countryside. From an early age, I have vivid memories of my grandfather guiding me through the vineyards and olive groves, sharing with me not just the rhythms of nature, but the very soul of our land. For me, the harvest was always something magical—it was a time of togetherness, of laughter, of family bonds that seemed to grow stronger with each passing year. As I grew older and immersed myself in the world of hospitality, my love for wine deepened. It was then, as a young adult, that I chose to join the Italian Sommelier Association—a decision that, looking back, remains the best I’ve ever made.”

Do You Remember Your First Experience Of Tasting Sparkling Wine? Could You Tell Us More About It And What Kind Of Sparkling Wine It Was?

“I still remember one of the first times I tasted the famous ‘Moscato d’Asti.’ I was very young, and it was New Year’s Eve. We were all together, celebrating the arrival of midnight, and it was at that moment that I ‘stole’ my first sip of sparkling wine. I can still vividly recall the glass—it was a bright, almost radiant yellow. The taste, so sweet and fresh, seemed to capture the joy of that evening.”

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

“One of the most important lessons I’ve learned since becoming a sommelier is that the journey of learning never truly ends. Wine, in its quiet elegance, can evoke more emotions than the most eloquent speech ever could. It’s not just a drink—it’s a story, an experience, a memory wrapped in every bottle. Each wine holds a piece of history, a glimpse of the land it comes from, and the hands that crafted it. The beauty is that the more we explore, the more we discover—whether it’s the subtlety of a single varietal or the nuances that change from vintage to vintage. Wine has this extraordinary way of deepening our understanding of the world as if each glass invites us to slow down, appreciate, and connect with the present moment.”

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

“One of my favorite regions is Champagne, particularly the Côte des Blancs. There’s something truly captivating about this area—the elegance of its Chardonnay vines, and the way the cool climate imparts such freshness and finesse to the wines. The Côte des Blancs is often described as the heart of Champagne for a reason. It’s where the finest Blanc de Blancs are born, wines that embody purity, minerality, and a sense of place like no other.”

What Advice Would You Give To Aspiring Sommeliers?

“I would advise any young person aspiring to pursue this career not to settle for the superficial. Travel, explore, taste, and most importantly, seek knowledge beyond the pages of books. True understanding comes from lived experiences, from the places you visit, the people you meet, and the stories you hear along the way. The world of wine is vast, and no textbook can truly capture its depth or the subtle nuances that only experience can reveal. Every region, every vineyard, and every vintage offers something unique. The beauty of being a sommelier is not just in the technical skills, but in developing a deeper connection with the land, the culture, and the people behind each bottle. The more you immerse yourself in the world of wine, the more you realize it’s not just about the tasting—it’s about understanding the passion, the history, and the art that goes into every pour. So my advice is simple: be curious, be humble, and never stop learning. The journey itself is as rich and rewarding as the wines you’ll come to know.”

Can You Share The Most Memorable Experience You’ve Enjoyed With A Glass of Bubbly?

“One of the most memorable times I enjoyed a glass of bubbly was actually at my own home, with a few close friends. It was a rainy day, the kind of weather that makes you feel cozy and reflective. The fireplace was crackling in the background, casting a warm glow across the room. We opened a bottle of Krug Grand Cuvée, and from the first pour, you could feel the weight of its complexity and elegance. The deep, golden color and the fine, persistent bubbles seemed to capture the essence of the moment—warmth, intimacy, and the pleasure of sharing something truly special. It wasn’t just about the wine, though—it was the conversation, the laughter, the feeling of being surrounded by people who truly appreciated the moment. Sometimes, it’s not just where you are or what you’re drinking, but the connections you make, the memories you create with others that make an experience unforgettable. That day, in that cozy space, with the rain tapping on the windows and the fire crackling, was one of those perfect moments. It felt like the wine brought it all together, making everything feel even more magical.”

Additional Question Asked on Behalf of Champagne Collectors – What’s The Oldest Vintage Champagne You’ve Tasted?

“I’ve had the opportunity to taste some incredible vintage Champagnes over the years, including iconic bottles like Dom Pérignon P2, Krug Vintage, Cristal, and Belle Epoque 1990. Each of these wines carries with it a story, a unique expression of time, place, and craftsmanship. The Dom Pérignon P2, for example, with its depth and complexity, felt like an evolving symphony in the glass—each sip revealing something new. The Krug Vintage, always a favorite, showcased the house’s signature richness and finesse, while Cristal had that elegant balance of power and refinement that makes it so legendary. And then there was the Belle Epoque 1990—a vintage that has only grown more expressive with time, its aromas and flavors unfolding like a delicate flower.

What I find so fascinating about tasting these extraordinary bottles is how they evolve, and how they transport you to a specific time and place. Each vintage reflects the conditions of the year it was made, yet they all share a timelessness that connects them to the history of Champagne itself. It’s not just about luxury or rarity—it’s about the experience of drinking something that has been crafted with such care and precision, something that represents the culmination of decades of tradition and innovation.”

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

Photo Credit belongs to Amedeo Billi, Glass of Bubbly was granted permission to use the image.