Interview With A Sommelier – Francesca Turra

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, England, who has helped many people to discover the vast world of Wines and Sparkling Wines, her name is Francesca Turra, let’s find out about her life as a Sommelier.

Tell Us About Yourself

“I’m Francesca, the Head Sommelier at Fallow Restaurant. I was born in Brescia, a charming town in Northern Italy, situated not far from the enchanting Franciacorta wine region. In 2009, I graduated in Viticulture and Enology. Following several wine-related experiences in France, I made the pivotal decision to delve into the world of sommeliers. My motivation was to understand and develop the “other side of the wine.” I commenced my journey in Michelin-starred establishments, including Villa Crespi (3 stars) located by Orta Lake in Novara – Italy and Midsummer House (2 stars) in Cambridge.”

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

“My first experience with sparkling wine was a memorable celebration with friends. It was a charming Franciacorta that left a lasting impression on me. The effervescence, the delicate bubbles, and the celebration that surrounded it sparked my interest in the diverse world of sparkling wines.”

What Inspired You To Become a Sommelier?

“I was inspired to become a sommelier by my deep fascination with the stories behind each bottle of wine. The world of wine is rich with history, tradition, and artistry, and I wanted to immerse myself in a career that allowed me to explore and share these narratives. Witnessing the transformative journey from grape to glass, and the cultural significance attached to different varietals, ignited a passion in me to delve into the nuances of wine. Becoming a sommelier was a natural progression, driven by a genuine love for the craft and a desire to guide others through the diverse and captivating world of wines.”

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

“In my tenure as a sommelier, the most surprising and intriguing lesson has been the profound impact of ageing on certain wines. Witnessing how time can transform the flavours, aromas, and textures of wine has been a continuous source of fascination. It’s akin to unlocking a hidden dimension within the bottle, where patience and careful ageing elevate the wine to new heights. This revelation has added an extra layer of complexity to my understanding of the intricacies involved in appreciating and recommending wines, making the journey as a sommelier even more enriching.”

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

“When it comes to sparkling wine, Franciacorta holds a special place in my heart. The dedication to quality and the distinctiveness of this Italian region’s sparkling wines have left a lasting impression on me. The rich heritage and unique terroir of Franciacorta contribute to the exceptional character of its sparkling wines, making it a standout among the many renowned sparkling wine-producing countries and regions.”

What Advice Would You Give Inspiring Sommeliers?

“For aspiring sommeliers, my advice would be to embrace curiosity and never stop learning. Immerse yourself in the diverse world of wines, travel to different regions, and taste as much as you can. Develop a deep understanding of the cultural and historical aspects of winemaking, and always be open to new and unique experiences.”

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

“The most memorable place I’ve enjoyed a glass of bubbly was at a rooftop bar in San Francisco. The combination of the city lights, the cool breeze, and the effervescence of the sparkling wine created a magical ambience. It was a moment suspended in time, with the skyline as a backdrop, making the experience truly unforgettable.”

Thank you, Francesca, 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 Francesca Turra. Glass of Bubbly was granted permission, to use them.