The world’s best sommelier is from Varese

“A sommelier mustn’t present himself as a star”, but “he must provide a perfect, precise and friendly service, with the aim of satisfying his clients.” For this reason, Paolo Basso, who was born in Varese, and who now lives in Vacallo, Canton Ticino, has won the 14th competition among the best wine experts in the world. The contest, which took place in Tokyo, saw sommeliers from 54 different countries competing, and after a fierce final, the 46-year-old Italian-Swiss man came out the winner. The reasons that led to Basso’s receiving the coveted award are not just related to his excellent knowledge of the secrets of wine (he was already crowned the best sommelier in Europe, in 2010, and he came second in the world competition in 2000, 2007 and 2010), but also to his affability and willingness to recommend wines. “A good sommelier must have good knowledge of wine, be pleasant and help you to appreciate your dishes,” explained the President of the international jury, the Frenchman, Serge Dubs.