Gerard Basset named the World's Best Sommelier

Gerard Basset has been named the World's Best Sommelier.

The Hotel du Vin founder was awarded the title having triumphed over 51 other contestants at a competition in Santiago, Chile.

Each finalist took on 40 minutes of practical tests including blind tasting, describing in detail four different wines and identifying eight spirits in three minutes.

Speaking after the event, Bassett said: "It's the most difficult thing I've ever done. In the end I just thought I'm going to enjoy it and make the judges happy, even if I don't win."

He will hold the title until the next competition, to be held in Tokyo, Japan in 2013.

Watch wine masterclasses with Gerard Basset and Gearoid Devaney >>

Gerard Basset to represent the UK at World's Best Sommelier Competition >>

Gerard Basset on how to become a sommelier >>

E-mail your comments to James Stagg here.

If you have something to say on this story or anything else join the debate at Table Talk - Caterer's new networking forum. Go to www.caterersearch.com/tabletalk

Caterersearch.com jobs
Looking for a new job? Find your next job here with Caterersearch.com jobs