Becoming a wine expert is a journey that requires a passion for wine, dedication, and hard work. For some, it takes years to develop a palate and an understanding of the intricacies of wine. But for me, it has been a fulfilling and enjoyable ride, one that I embarked on with a love for all wines and an eagerness to learn more.
My journey to becoming a wine expert started with my preference for new world wines. I have always been drawn to the unconventional and creative approaches that are characteristic of wines from countries like South Africa, Chile, New Zealand, and the United States. I found myself gravitating towards these wines in my early years of exploring the world of wine, and they have remained a constant in my wine journey.
As I delved deeper into the world of wine, I began to appreciate the unique terroirs and varietals of different regions. I started learning about the various old world wine regions, the soils, the grape varieties, and the winemaking techniques used in each region. This newfound knowledge helped me appreciate the nuances and complexities of wine and how they shape the taste of a wine.
My passion for wine led me to pursue a career in the wine industry, where I worked with some of the top national brands and some less commonly known boutique wineries. Working in the wine industry gave me an opportunity to learn from some of the best in the business and gain hands-on experience in wine production, sales, and marketing.
One of the defining moments in my wine journey was when I sat for my Sommelier exam back in 2019. The Court of Master Sommelier exam is a rigorous test that evaluates a candidate's knowledge of wine, service, and beverage operations. It requires a deep understanding of wine history, wine production, wine regions, wine styles, and food and wine pairings.
Preparing for the exam was no easy feat. I spent countless hours studying classic wine regions, grape varieties, winemaking techniques, and wine laws. I tasted hundreds of wines, honing my palate and learning to identify the different flavors and aromas in wine. I also studied food and wine pairings, learning how to match wines with different types of cuisine.
On the day of the exam, I was nervous but also excited to put my knowledge to the test. The exam consisted of a written test, a blind tasting, and a service test. In the written test, you are expected to identify wine regions, grape varieties, and technical styles. In the blind tasting, I was able to identify the grape varieties, countries, and regions of the wines. And in the service test, I demonstrated my knowledge of wine service, opening a bottle of wine, decanting it, and serving it to the table. It has also given me a deeper appreciation of wine and the skills to communicate my passion to others.
As a wine expert, I am always on the lookout for new and exciting wines to try. I enjoy exploring lesser-known wine regions, trying different grape varieties, and experimenting with new winemaking techniques. I also enjoy sharing my knowledge and passion for wine with others, whether it's through hosting wine tastings or recommending wines to friends and family.
Wine is a complex and ever-evolving subject, and there is always more to learn. I am constantly challenging myself to expand my knowledge of wine and to try new wines from around the world. My journey to becoming a wine expert has been a fun and fulfilling one, and I look forward to continuing to explore the world of wine and sharing my passion with others.
Becoming a wine expert has been an incredibly rewarding experience, one that has opened up a world of flavors and experiences that I never could have imagined. From hosting wine tastings to exploring new vineyards, I have found joy and satisfaction in every step of the journey.As I continue to expand my knowledge and explore new wines, I look forward to sharing my passion with others and helping them discover the wonderful world of wine. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or just starting out, there is always something new and exciting to discover in the world of wine. So raise a glass and join me on this incredible journey!
-Joe Dunn