Interview With A Sommelier – Ravi Singh

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

Tell Us About Yourself

“Humble and down to earth. I was born and raised in Lucknow then we moved to New Delhi, India. I was raised in a business family with a luxurious lifestyle with my father Mr Pramod Singh and my mother Arti Singh. My father was running a transport company and he wanted to expand more and more. But everything collapsed and things didn’t turn out the way he wanted. Suddenly we became an ordinary middle class family when I was only 9 years old. We are 3 brothers and I am the eldest one, my father struggled very much to give us a good education.

From my college time, I had an interest in Hospitality and beverages. I completed my Batchelor’s Degree in Hotel Management from IHM Delhi. After doing my training at Western Court Hotel, I worked in India’s strongest Hotel Brand, Oberoi Hotel, then moved to Goa India. I ran my own restaurant for 6 years till 2016. After shutting down the restaurant I moved to Dubai in 2018 where my first job was in the Jumeirah Hotel as a Bar supervisor/sommelier. Dubai is the place to grow in Hospitality. I always wanted to be the best at my work.

I personally believe you can be at the top of the hierarchy after spending decades in the Hotel industry but to put the Sommelier before your name you have to work extremely hard. It’s a pride in itself to be called a Sommelier. There is no other reason. Still, many things have to be achieved. I have completed my WSET in wine levels 2 and 3. Plus WSET spirits level 2 and Court of Master Sommelier introductory level, soon to sit my certificate exam.”

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

“My first bottle of sparkling wine was Moët & Chandon Brut, it was my first bottle of Champagne which I opened myself and I remember I exploded the cork with the sound.”

What Inspired You To Become a Sommelier?

“The hardest exam in the world is the Court of Master Sommelier. In India, there are no Master Sommeliers. I want to one day become a Master Sommelier, thats inspire me to become a Master Sommelier and be only one from India.”

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

“During my sommelier journey, I learned that, no matter how much time I am giving to study and focus, it is always not enough. It’s not enough for anyone. There is always something new to learn in the wines.”

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

“For sparkling wines, my favorite countries are Italy and France of course. But mostly Italian Prosecco and Ferrari Perle.”

What Advice Would You Give Inspiring Sommeliers?

“STUDY and knowledge is the key to your success. It’s an everyday process. You have to give your everything to become a sommelier. Apart from the knowledge you need to have great leadership skills. Once you become a sommelier the expectations of your co-workers will be high for you. You have to be open minded and always ready to share your knowledge that will keep you updated and refreshed in your mind.”

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

“My home is the most memorable place for a glass of bubbly. I always have a bottle of Prosecco at home to have when studying my books, which I enjoy doing. But for the restaurant, my favorite place a S Bar at SLS Hotel Dubai, is where I enjoy a glass of Champagne often.”

Thank you, Ravi, 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 Ravi Singh. Glass of Bubbly was granted permission, to use them.