On March 23, the InterContinental Bordeaux Le Grand Hôtel hosted the SommelierS International Meet the Pros tasting event. A friendly yet thoroughly professional gathering that continues to delight its participants.
In this sumptuous setting, wine merchants, restaurateurs, wine merchants, wine influencers and sommeliers from the Union de la Sommellerie Française came together for a day dedicated to discovery and meaningful exchanges.
From the very first moments, the tone was set: tasting here is both focused and lively. Around thirty stands formed a curated journey through France’s key wine regions. Bordeaux, of course, but also Alsace, Burgundy, Champagne, Languedoc, Provence and the Rhône Valley, with a welcome detour to Pineau des Charentes. A true mosaic of terroirs, encouraging comparison, exploration, and sometimes rediscovery.
With Lehmann glasses in hand, professionals took their time. Wines were tasted, discussed and questioned. Some impressed with their freshness, others with their generosity or precision. Conversations were concrete, often technical, and always valuable. Terroir and market trends were discussed with equal interest, driven by a genuine desire to understand.
On the exhibitors’ side, satisfaction was clear. All praised the quality of the attendees, engaged, curious and highly professional. The meetings were relevant, the exchanges constructive. A human-scale format that encourages genuine connections and leaves room for dialogue.
Gastronomic partners also played a key role in the success of the day. Sturia caviar, oysters from Routioutiou and chocolates from Cadiot-Badie complemented the tastings with precision, adding an extra dimension to the wines presented.
As the day unfolded, one thing became clear: beyond regions and styles, it is the richness of the French vineyard as a whole that is expressed here. A diversity proudly embraced and carried by passionate professionals. A successful gathering where wine, more than ever, is shared and brought to life through storytelling.
Sandy Bénard-Ravoisier
Photos: Artiste Associé photographes
––› See the Meet the Pros tasting
They are the undisputed champions of wine lists, the icons adorning liquor store shelves...
Each year, the Meet the Pros event organized by SommelierS International
