Discover the Journey of Master Sommelier Philipp Reinstaller

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Explore the remarkable journey of Philipp Reinstaller, a master sommelier and his top wine picks for every occasion.

The Rise of a Master Sommelier

Philipp Reinstaller’s journey in the world of wine is nothing short of inspiring. After starting his career with a profound love for wine, he honed his skills at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in London, a renowned two-Michelin-star establishment. During his nearly five years there, he was mentored by esteemed sommeliers Stefan Neumann MS and Vincenzo Arnese, which paved the way for his ascent to assistant head sommelier.

In 2021, Reinstaller took on the role of head sommelier at Trivet, another two-star restaurant. His dedication to mastering the art of wine was evident when he passed the Master Sommelier Advanced exam in the same year. In 2023, he became part of the opening team for Raffles London at the OWO, under celebrated chef Mauro Colagreco. Through each stage of his career, Reinstaller has not only built an impressive résumé but also enriched his understanding of global wine cultures.

Memorable Wine Experiences

Reflecting on his early experiences with wine, one that stands out is enjoying a 1987 vintage Pinot Bianco from Cantina Terlan at Miil in Trentino-Alto Adige. This experience left a lasting impression on him due to the wine’s incredible freshness and vitality. Such moments shape a sommelier’s palate and understanding and contribute to their ability to recommend exceptional wines.

Reinstaller’s journey reveals how critical these early encounters are. They form a foundation for identifying what makes wines remarkable—a balance that resonates with both quality and taste.

Everyday Wines and Recommendations

When it comes to his personal favorites, Reinstaller maintains a diverse selection that reflects both vibrancy and character:

• Sattlerhof Eichberg Sauvignon Blanc, Styria, Austria 2022
• Kumeu River Village Chardonnay, Auckland, New Zealand 2022
• Strehn Blaufränkisch Rosé, Burgenland, Austria 2023
• Thymiopoulos Xinomavro Jeunes Vignes, Naoussa, Greece 2021
• Cosse Maisonneuve Le Combal, Cahors, France 2019

Each bottle showcases unique flavors from distinct regions and contributes to an enriching everyday wine experience.

Supermarket Finds

Among supermarket finds, he highly recommends Te Muna Road Pinot Noir 2019 from Craggy Range in Martinborough, New Zealand. Available at Waitrose for around £25, it offers an exquisite balance—fruit-driven yet refreshing—making it an excellent choice for casual enjoyment.

The Best Food Pairings

In fine dining settings like Trivet, specific food and wine pairings create memorable culinary experiences. One standout dish features red oak lettuce paired with smoked haddock alongside Vinmouth Blanc 2021 from 4 Ever Wine. The savory notes from the dish combined with the aromatic sweetness of vermouth produce a delightful harmony on the palate that enhances both components.

For quick after-work meals, Reinstaller enjoys assembling cheese and charcuterie platters complemented by:

• François Rousset Martin’s La Chaux Chardonnay 2018 (for cheese)
• Domaine Jamet Côtes du Rhône 2019 (for cured meats)
  This simple yet satisfying pairing showcases how accessible good food and wine can be.

Expert Insights into Wine Regions

As trends evolve within the wine industry, regions such as Kakheti in Georgia captivate sommeliers like Reinstaller with their unique offerings. Known for amber wines steeped in tradition and hospitality, Kakheti promises distinct tastes that reflect its rich heritage.

Reinstaller believes great value can also be found in lesser-known areas such as Vinho Verde in Portugal or Naoussa in Greece—regions producing exceptional wines without breaking the bank. Madeira and Sherry are further examples where quality is often overlooked despite their complexity and charm.

Conclusion: A Passionate Pursuit of Wine Excellence

Philipp Reinstaller exemplifies what it means to be passionate about wine—from unforgettable experiences shaping his palate to carefully curated selections that elevate dining moments. His story serves as an invitation for all wine lovers to explore new horizons while appreciating classic favorites.

Photo by Johny Goerend on Unsplash