The USA Trade Tasting (USATT) event is a premier platform for beverage industry professionals to connect, exchange ideas, and explore new market trends. One of the standout sessions at this year’s event will feature Master Sommelier Élyse Lambert, a renowned figure in the wine world. Lambert, who has earned accolades such as Best Sommelier of the Americas 2009 and Fifth Best Sommelier of the World 2016, will share her expertise on curating wine programs, adapting to consumer preferences, and fostering meaningful partnerships within the industry.

Lambert will take center stage in the panel discussion titled "From Menu to Glass: Insights from Leading Sommeliers," alongside other beverage industry leaders. This session will explore how sommeliers and beverage directors can craft engaging and profitable wine lists, navigate shifting consumer tastes, and collaborate effectively with producers and distributors. Lambert’s insights will provide actionable strategies for professionals looking to refine their beverage programs.

Curating a Beverage Program for All Drinkers

Lambert will emphasize the importance of designing a wine list that caters to both casual drinkers and serious wine enthusiasts. She recommends selecting well-known appellations with a broad price range while also incorporating unique finds that can excite connoisseurs. "You need to build a list where everyone will find their happy place," she will advise, highlighting that the ultimate goal is to sell wine, not just offer alternatives like water or soda.

Evolving Consumer Preferences

Consumer preferences have been shifting significantly in recent years, with increasing demand for organic, local, and non-alcoholic options. Lambert will note the rising interest in craft beers as well, urging sommeliers to adapt accordingly to meet this growing demand.

Connecting with Top Sommeliers

For producers looking to engage with top sommeliers, Lambert will suggest a strategic approach: "All opportunities can be an opportunity! It always depends on what you want to achieve." Whether the goal is to raise awareness or secure wine list placements, working with experienced agents or representatives can provide valuable guidance.

Sommeliers Choice Awards Organised by Beverage Trade Network.

Introducing Lesser-Known Wines

When adding lesser-known wines or regions to a list, Lambert will emphasize the importance of seasonality, menu pairing, and understanding guest preferences. She will advise sommeliers to engage guests in conversation to ensure their selections align with expectations. "Enthusiasm has to come from both the somm and the guest. Don’t force it!" she will stress.

Pairing Wines with Dynamic Menus

Pairing wine effectively requires a deep understanding of flavor profiles, textures, and acidity. Lambert will highlight that more contemporary menus are leaning toward white wines, urging sommeliers to keep a balanced selection. She will also encourage collaboration with chefs to create pairings that enhance both the wine and the dish.

Supporting Sommeliers in Beverage Program Development

When asked how producers and distributors can better support sommeliers, Lambert will keep it simple: "Tasting, tasting, tasting." She will emphasize the need for continuous exploration and exposure to new wines to ensure sommeliers can make informed selections.

Common Wine List Mistakes

Restaurants often design wine lists based on personal preference rather than guest experience. Lambert will caution against this approach, advising establishments to prioritize their menu, budget considerations, and guest preferences over personal favorites. "It is all about your guest experience. It is not about you," she will state firmly.

Emerging Trends in Wine

Lambert will highlight several emerging wine styles and regions gaining momentum in the market. She will note increased interest in Canadian wines, Austrian and Greek selections, and Italian whites, with Etna wines remaining a favorite among enthusiasts.

USATT continues to serve as a vital platform for industry professionals to gain insights from leaders like Élyse Lambert. Her expertise will underscore the importance of thoughtful wine curation, adaptability to trends, and meaningful industry collaborations. For anyone looking to elevate their beverage program and stay ahead of market shifts, USATT will be an essential event to attend.

For more industry insights and networking opportunities, be sure to participate in the upcoming USA Trade Tasting event.

Header Image: Master Sommelier Élyse Lambert

Also Read:
From Menu to Glass: Rachael Lowe on Crafting Winning Beverage Programs
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