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By
Jennifer Reese
Earlier this year, the Court of Master Sommeliers named 22-year-old Desi Echavarrie Best Young Sommelier in a competition for wine stewards under age 32. Formerly with Mary Elaine’s at the Phoenician in Scottsdale, Ariz., Echavarrie works at Picasso in the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas.
Q
Given your age, do guests ever doubt your abilities?
A
Some people think a sommelier should be bald and French. That’s ridiculous—some of the best sommeliers in the world are young women.
Q
Why wine?
A
I’ve always loved history, geography, and food; wine encompasses all of those things.
Q
Tips for ordering in a restaurant?
A
Don’t be embarrassed to tell the sommelier your price range and offer some parameters. You’ll get the best value for your money that way.
Q
Whites with fish, reds with meat?
A
As a rule of thumb, but then there are pinot noirs that go with fish and rich whites that work with steak.
Q
What about sending wine back?
A
I never have a problem—I’ve taken back $400, $500, and $800 bottles.
Q
Where do you go for outstanding wine service?
A
In Las Vegas, wine pairings are stellar at Renoir in the Mirage, and Aureole has over 100,000 bottles and a wine team of 10.
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