Long recognised as an art form in restaurants around the world, the role of sommelier is a complex business. It’s a tough job and the path to the top is intense. In Aotearoa we have seen an exponential growth in the numbers of those wanting to take up the challenge and the diner is better off for it. Nowhere is that more so than at The Grove which has always had an exceptional wine offering and where Andrea Martinisi (pictured above) offers his exceptional level of expertise. Andrea regaled us with stories of the history of the regions we were exploring, he zeroed in on ideal pairings, he pushed boundaries with two creative choices of stickies with dessert. We were in no doubt that Andrea is a sommelier at the top of his craft. His overall contribution to the evening was stellar and he is the logical choice for the award of Sommelier & Wine Experience of the Year 2023/2024.