Sommelier

sommelier, wine steward

noun zo-mel-IEH Rare

Origin: from French sommelier (pack-animal driver, later butler)

Usage Note

Sommelier is a trained wine specialist in an upscale restaurant who advises guests on wine selection and pairings. In German professional training it is a recognised qualification (geprüfter Sommelier). The word is used without change in the plural.

Examples

"Der Sommelier empfahl einen Riesling zum Fischgericht."

Natural Translation

The sommelier recommended a Riesling with the fish course.

Literal Translation

The sommelier recommended a Riesling to the fish-dish.

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