Interview With A Sommelier – Anastasiia Lytvynenko

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 woman from Ukraine, who has helped many people discover the vast world of Wines and Sparkling Wines, her name is Anastasiia Lytvynenko, let’s find out a bit about her life as a Sommelier.

Tell Us About Yourself

“My name is Anastasiia Lytvynenko, I’ve moved to Dubai 1.5 years ago and started actively studying to get the occupation of my dreams. And now I am a Sommelier at L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon in Dubai.”

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

“I remember a story from my early childhood when I wanted to seem adult and always asked my parents to pour juice in a wine glass at family get-togethers.

Inevitably, one day I mixed up the glasses and grabbed the “adult sparkly” instead of my glass. I was extremely surprised by a completely new flavor.”

What Inspired You To Become a Sommelier?

“I have always been aspiring to learn more about wine.

In my early teenage years, my parents grew Isabella grapes, which was a very popular variety in CIS countries. I was absolutely fascinated with how the vines wake up and the process of pruning. Sap from a freshly cut vine is something extraordinary. Seeing veraison and watching how every little berry fills up and deepens in color day to day. And then came a special ritual, foot pressing just like in that famous Adriano Celentano movie.

The whole family observed the magic of fermentation and maceration, and then enjoyed an amazing home wine with rich nose and exciting flavor.

As you can see, I have been interested in wine since early age, but due to certain circumstances only in Dubai I could finally learn a sommelier profession and start working as one.”

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

“I admire the unbelievable complexity of a sommelier job and feel amazed with how much broader my views have become. It’s not only about grapes and wine, it is also geography of the countries with their climate specifics, and chemistry of the wine-making processes, biology of growth and cultivation. On top of that, this occupation opens up travelling opportunities like I’ve always wanted, and so much more.”

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

“So far, my favorite sparkling wine producer is Ruinart, which is a Champagne House with a complex and fascinating history. I was stunned by their excellent Blanc de Blancs, and now I dream about visiting their winery.”

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

“It may be unoriginal, but summer 2019 for me will always be remembered by a glass of bubbly with an Eiffel Tower view and an extraordinary moment full of magic and happiness, when a small dream comes true.”

Thank you, Anastasiia, 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 Anastasiia Lytvynenko. Glass of Bubbly was granted permission, to use them.