Sommelier as a career for women?

[rslux]

Hi Andrea! Where do you stand on the academic training versus field exprience question as it relates to becoming a sommelier?

Also, do you think the field has special challenges for women?

[Andreawine]

I think you need both. You need tons of practical experience, but I think also one needs formal training, to create a firm foundation and accuracy in the info you learn and apply.

I think there are both challenges and opportunities for women. Sometimes it's hard to get hired for traditionally male jobs. But tableside, it's an advantage. They see the sommelier doesn't look like your typical sommelier, and they feel relieved that perhaps this won't be the "typical" downer sommelier experience.