"Sommelier," the Word

[Fat Guy]

Hi Andrea. I was wondering, what do you think of all these people who have called themselves sommeliers but have nothing to do with wine? Like the "tea sommelier," "bath sommelier," and "water sommelier" at some of the trendy hotels?

[SWoodyWhite]

If I may add to Steven's question, do you find yourself asked for information and advice about non-alchoholic beverages (presumably by people who choose not to drink alchohol for whatever reason), and if so, how do you respond?

[Andreawine]

Well - I think it bothers some people. I do think that if there's a specialist who helps you choose an enjoyable product tailored to the particular situation, it's perhaps an accurate word to be used whether water, cheese, tea, or my friend and I just decided we could use a music sommelier!

I don't worry too much about broad application of the term as long as everyone who assumes the title behaves professionally, keeps the guest (rather than their own ego) in mind, and is honorable.

Know any music sommeliers?