Interview With A Sommelier – Kamil Bayrak

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 from, Turkey, who has helped many people to discover the vast world of Wines and Sparkling Wines, his name is Kamil Bayrak, let’s find out about his life as a Sommelier.

Tell Us About Yourself

“I’ve been working with wine for 17 years. Starting as a waiter, I’ve learned a lot about picking the right wines and providing great service. My goal is always to make sure everyone enjoys their time and finds a wine they love.”

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

“My first taste of sparkling wine was in 2007 with a basic Turkish one. It was simple, but it opened my eyes to the magic of wine and the amazing potential of sparkling varieties.”

What Inspired You To Become a Sommelier?

“What inspired me to become a sommelier was the desire to combine my experience in food and service with a deep knowledge of wine. I wanted to enhance people’s restaurant experiences by guiding them through a gastronomic journey, where every sip complements the flavors of the meal, creating unforgettable moments.”

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

“The most surprising and interesting thing I have learned as a sommelier is the impact of climate and terroir on wine. Understanding how soil, weather, and geography influence grape growth and flavor profiles has been fascinating.

Additionally, the science behind service temperature, glass shapes, winemaking techniques, and the aging process make me wonder if that wine is truly a blend of science, love, and chemistry, all working in harmony with the earth to create something extraordinary.”

What Advice Would You Give Inspiring Sommeliers?

“If you want to become a sommelier, my advice is to respect wine and taste as much as you can. Try different types from various places. Each bottle has its own story, and by exploring them, you will learn a lot and grow to appreciate and love wine even more.”

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

“For a quiet dinner, I would say something like seafood pasta or creamy risotto. And to go with it, I would choose a bubbly Prosecco. I really enjoy its fresh and fruity style, which pairs perfectly with the meal. It’s a delightful combination for a relaxed evening.”

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

Photo Credit belongs to Kamil Bayrak, Glass of Bubbly was granted permission, to use them.