Interview With A Sommelier – Matteo Rimoldi

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

Tell Us About Yourself

“I’m the Head Sommelier & Wine Buyer from Bürgenstock Resort, in the heart of Switzerland. I’m 36 years old and born and raised in Como, Italy and now living for serval years in Zurich.”

What Inspired You To Become a Sommelier?

“I have always been interested in the world of wine since I was in school. I realized that I wanted to do this as a profession when I started working in my first five–star hotel as a waiter in a restaurant.

The former sommelier at this time had an incredible passion for explaining and selling wines, which convinced me to also become a Sommelier. Shortly after I enrolled myself in Sommelier courses and started my journey.”

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

“In this job, you have never finished. You must keep on going learning from new wine regions to grapes, new methods of wine production, new releases of wines, and so on. It’s a lot to do but also very diversified and that’s fascinating me.”

How Often Do You Find Yourself Recommending English Sparkling Wine?

“Not that often as it’s still quite new in Switzerland and most of our customers like to drink Champagne.

But every now and then there are customers, who are interested in something new and like to try English Sparkling Wine. I guess the challenge is, that England is not yet well–known for their Sparkling Wine.”

In Your Professional Opinion, Out Of Champagne And Prosecco, Which Do You Think Does A Better Job With Complementing A Meal?

“I’m going with Champagne as it has more complexity & flavors. Furthermore range of varieties allows us to find a pairing for every dish.

Prosecco often does not have enough structure to pair with a complete meal.”

What Advice Would You Give An Inspiring Sommelier?

• Stay always curious and study a lot – there’s so much to discover
  
• Travel and visit wine producers, whenever you have the possibility
  
• Create or join a tasting group (this helps a lot to improve tasting skills, sharing knowledge and getting new inputs)

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

“Honestly, I like to keep it simple: a plate of cold cuts like salami & cheese together with a bottle from Jerome Prevost La Closerie les Beguines.”

Thank you, Matteo, 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 Matteo Rimoldi. Glass of Bubbly was granted permission, to use them.