Interview With A Sommelier – Michele Mattia Virzi

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 Michele Mattia Virzi, and let’s find out a bit about his life as a Sommelier.

Tell Us About Yourself

“I’m Michele Virzi and I’m a Sommelier. I was born in Bolzano, but I’ve lived almost my entire life in Treviso. I fell in love with music and art when I was a child. I always thought that winemaking was a sort of art. My curiosity brought me to work in Italy, Switzerland and the UK because I believe that different societies can bring so much to the table regarding wine and food culture.”

What Inspired You To Become a Sommelier?

“I decided to become a Sommelier late in life, but I’ve always had the pleasure to be at service. Being able to complement good food with the right wine is absolutely one of the best experiences one can have.”

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

“I’ve come to discover that wine in a bottle isn’t dead, on the contrary. It is very much alive. It’s our duty not to kill it with the right maintenance or with the right friends. ;)”

How Often Do You Find Yourself Recommending English Sparkling Wine?

“In my town, Conegliano, they only want Prosecco. I tasted some English bubbles and they were really interesting, but here it’s impossible to sell them or even find them.”

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

“Absolutely Champagne. Prosecco is a vast word which contains too much wine that is, in my humble opinion, not so good.”

What Advice Would You Give Inspiring Sommeliers?

“Drink! Not to get drunk, but to remember. Visit the production sites and ask questions. Winemakers love to talk about their wines. Ask and drink. Drink and ask.”

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

“I think I’ll have a nice Battuta di Fassona Piemontese paired with a nice bottle of Krug Rosé Foglioline.”

Thank you, Michele, 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 Michele Mattia Virzi. Glass of Bubbly was granted permission to use them.