Interview With A Sommelier – Strahinja (Steve) Simovic

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, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, who has helped many people to discover the vast world of Wines and Sparkling Wines, his name is Strahinja (Steve) Simovic, let’s find out about his life as a Sommelier.

Tell Us About Yourself

“Hello wine lovers, my name is Strahinja, but you can call me Steve. I am a wine and sake enthusiast from Kragujevac, an industrial city in the heart of Serbia. After high school adventures, I got an offer to work in one of the best fine dining restaurants at the top of an old citadel in Budva, a coastal town in Montenegro. That was in 2012, and that was the beginning of my international career in the hospitality industry. I love to read books and write stories about life, sake and wine. Currently, I am working for one of the best Japanese restaurants in the world.”

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

“One of the first sparkling wines that I tasted was Trijumf Aleksandrovic from the Sumadija district in Serbia. This is a traditional method sparkling wine made from 100% Chardonnay grapes grown in the Oplenac area. Aleksandrovic is one of the few Serbian wineries that produce sparkling wines. I was impressed by the quality and the complexity of their wines, which reflect the terroir and the passion of the winemaker.”

What Inspired You To Become a Sommelier?

“Ever since I was a child, I had a passion for learning and exploration. I found this in the ever-expanding universe of the wine world. At the end of 2015, Sersa (ASI) decided to open the first wine association for my region and invited me to attend. I was intrigued by the opportunity. I realized that I knew very little about the wine world. It was a challenge for me. I accepted it and I am still learning.”

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

“The wine world is not simple, it is unique and complex. There are so many facts about regions, laws, climate, and a historical root. All of that is fascinating to me. If I take only one thing, I will not be honest. The are so many different styles of wine. The diversity and no limitation. Somehow all of that gives me freedom.”

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

“Champagne. It is hard to put one aside as favourite when your palate touches a bubble. All of them are special because of production and dedication. It`s delightful. So, I don’t have a favourite Champagne yet, but I can tell you one that is on my mind now. The remarkable Champagne, with a rich and complex flavour. The Bollinger 007 limited edition, inspired by the James Bond movie. A masterpiece.”

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

“In the summer of 2018, I had the opportunity to visit Cartagena, Colombia. It is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. One of the highlights of my trip was spending a day at Playa Blanca, a stunning white-sand beach with clear turquoise water. I enjoyed the fresh strawberries and a Ruinart Blanc de Blanc, as I toasted to life and happiness. It was an unforgettable experience. Kanpai!”

Thank you, Strahinja, 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 Strahinja (Steve) Simovic. Glass of Bubbly was granted permission, to use them.