About The Book

“If you are curious about life as a sommelier, this charming book makes an easy, nutritious appetizer.” —The New York Times

An illuminating guide to a career as a sommelier written by acclaimed food and drink writer Rosie Schaap and based on the real-life experiences of experts in the field—essential reading for anyone considering a path to this profession.

Wine is a pleasure, and in its pursuit there should be no snobbery. The sommelier is there to help, to teach, to guide. Acclaimed food and drink writer Rosie Schaap profiles two renowned sommeliers to offer a candid portrait of this profession. Learn the job from Amanda Smeltz, a poet and wine director in New York, and Roger Dagorn, a James Beard Award–winning Master Sommelier. From starting in the cellar, grueling certification exams, to tastings and dinner service, Becoming a Sommelier is an invaluable introduction to this dream job.

About The Author

Photograph by M. Sharkey

Rosie Schaap

Rosie Schaap is the author of Drinking with Men: A Memoir. She is the former “Drink” columnist for The New York Times Magazine, and has also contributed to Lucky Peach, Saveur, The New York Times Book Review, Travel + Leisure, and This American Life. She was previously and variously employed as a community organizer, an editor, a manager of homeless shelters, and, for many years, a bartender.