Interview With A Sommelier – Sebastian Marroquin

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

Tell Us About Yourself

“My name is Sebastian Marroquin, a sommelier and fashion designer born and raised in Guatemala City. You can find me on my new Instagram wine blog, @uncorked_bliss. Since my earliest memories, I have been captivated by the allure of the finer things in life and meaningful experiences. At the age of 18, amidst the pandemic, I embarked on a journey to explore different wines from the comfort of my home, seeking one that resonated with me. After the pandemic restrictions were lifted, I delved deeper into the world of wine, attending tastings at various wine bars in my city, and also tasting on my own. I immersed myself in the art of wine tasting while learning about it simultaneously. Now, at the age of 21, I am dedicated to curating the wine experience for my clients, tasting more and learning even more.”

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

“I do. I was 17 years old when I tried my first (more than a half) glass of Prosecco. It was a non-vintage from Freixenet. I remember it was at a Quinceañera party, served as the wine for the toast. It was delicious, although I could not describe its aromas and taste as I can now. Of course, at the time, I couldn’t ask for a second glass, but today, I drink it often. I love a good glass of bubbly, especially Prosecco and Champagne. In 2021, I had my very first experience tasting a sparkling wine, which was a Deutz Brut Classic Champagne. At that point, my nose was not well-trained yet, so I got exhilarated when I felt those peachy, apple, and citric aromas. It was one of my ‘aha!’ moments.”

What Inspired You To Become a Sommelier?

“Back in 2021, when I started going to wine bars and learning more about this exquisite drink. At the time, I got into College to study Political Science and Government, and had plenty of expertise in Fashion Design, both by passion and as a possible future career; but I never thought of the Wine Industry until I really learnt about it, and discovered that working as a Sommelier could also allow me to do something I love: create meaningful experiences for other people. To be of service, while sharing something I love with the world.”

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

“How tasting wine can teach you a lot about yourself: what you like, what you don’t, and how to work with yourself to develop the skill of tasting. It’s amazing how our senses work, and how processes as ‘simple’ as smelling, tasting, or looking can be so complex at the same time. That’s something that has always stuck with me since I became a Sommelier, and it reminds me of how wonderful our job is.”

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

“As Napoleon famously said, ‘Champagne! In victory, one deserves it; in defeat, one needs it!’ Since I tasted the Deutz Brut Classic, I discovered my love for the Champagne region in France. The dazzling pop sound, the endless ballet of bubbles in a sometimes pale yellow, sometimes gold color theater, the notes of white flowers, yellow fruits, and red fruits; and its crisp, velvety texture… How beautiful! Champagne holds a special place in my heart.”

What Advice Would You Give Inspiring Sommeliers?

“Something I’ve learned both as a Sommelier and as a designer is to develop tough discipline and endless curiosity. A strong mind will help you manage; a humble heart will help you deliver an efficient customer service, and a big eagerness to learn will help you develop. There is a lot of information to be learned, numerous situations to handle, sometimes many people or things to manage, and it can become exhausting. However, you must never let self-doubt, pride, impostor syndrome, or even snobbery take away your potential.”

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

“My most memorable bubbly experiences have been at Shiraz Wine Bar (gorgeous views and wines!), Red Wine Bar (great live music!), Hemingwine and CEPA Wine Shop (vast selection!). All in Guatemala City – If you are a wine lover coming to my city, you must check them out!”

Thank you, Sebastian, 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 Sebastian Marroquin. Glass of Bubbly was granted permission, to use them.