Despite this being the year 2022, female sommeliers are still few and far between in the male dominated wine industry. Though thankfully, there are a few women setting a superb example and blazing a trail for budding buffs of the vine, and here are three whose opinion I value dearly.
HENNA ZINZUWADIA
After breaking her back, Henna’s wine career began when she came across a buzzing Spitalfields wine bar on her first unaided walk. ‘It made me realise I wanted to work in a field where I could learn new things while being involved in the social aspect.’ Now head of wine at West African restaurant Akoko, Leicester-born Zinzuwadia champions organic, biodynamic wines and runs supper club Bori Table on Tuesdays. (akoko.co.uk)
SANDIA CHANG
Chang pairs wines to intricate courses designed by her partner in life and love, James Knappett, at two Michelin starred restaurant Kitchen Table. A devoted oenophile and highly trained chef, Chang has passion for lesser-known champagnes, which she sells via Bubbleshop. A US citizen born in Saudi Arabia, she also rates Napa Valley Cabernets, including the 1980 Heitz Cellar from her birth vintage.
CHANEL OWEN
As head sommelier at Pied à Terre, Owen has been part of the team that has triumphed over fire and financial crashes. Harking from Romford via the Far East, grappa-loving Owen chooses bright bottles to pair with the dishes of head chef, Asimakis Chaniotis. In her spare time, she finds ‘discipline and camaraderie’ as a cheerleader and rugby player.
