Photos of ADS 2025 Members
Official gallery of the 2024 ADS members: faces that represent the passion, training, and commitment of Dominican sommeliers at the national and international levels.
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PHOTOS RAIMOND TOMSON JANUARY 2024
Exclusive meeting with Raimond Tomson in January 2024, a memorable day with the World's Greatest Sommelier, celebrating excellence and passion for wine.
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Between glasses: Celebrating International Sommelier Day
ADS Newsletter Last Tuesday, June 3rd, the Dominican Association of Sommeliers proudly and emotionally celebrated International Sommelier Day in an event that combined organizational excellence, poignant memories, and a firm focus on the future of our profession. The meeting took place in the warm surroundings of Osteria Nona Nadia, where colleagues, friends, and industry allies gathered to commemorate the importance of our work, share experiences, and pay tribute to memorable figures who have shaped the history of Dominican sommelier culture. Thanks to the generous support of Manuel González Cuesta and Chinola, attendees were greeted with an exquisite welcome cocktail: the Chinola Spritz, made with passion fruit liqueur, soda water, and a touch of citrus, accompanied by Prosecco Mionetto. This cocktail set the perfect tone for a relaxed, conversational reception filled with camaraderie. Particularly moving moments were experienced during the evening with the presentation of two significant awards. The first was awarded to Federico Díaz, the Association's training director, who received a well-deserved distinction for his impeccable coordination of the 2024–2025 Sommelier Diploma. The second was a posthumous recognition for Simone Pintón, presented with profound respect and received with great emotion by Ana Teresa, assistant to the food and beverage director at Casa de Campo. The formal opening of the ceremony was led by sommelier José Silverio, who recalled the dual purpose of the event: to celebrate the longevity of our profession and to respectfully honor the memory of sommelier Simone Pintón, distinguished as Sommelier of the Year in 2010, and of other deceased members whose legacy lives on among us: Dr. Carmen Cataldi, Andrés Meschisi, Andrés Joubert, and Sergio Ottato. Their names evoked commitment, passion, and dedication. Next, sommelier Rafael Alexander offered a few words of motivation to the members present, thanking the sponsors and highlighting the importance of collective effort. His remarks set the stage for the speech by the Association's President, Carlos Espino. In a clear and structured message, President Espino presented a historical overview of the Association, its most recent advancements, and its enthusiastic vision for the future. Among the most significant announcements were the launch of a new website, the creation of an audiovisual department, the restructuring of the membership, and the appointment of Kelly Rubio as Vice President. The competition schedule for the coming years was also shared, including the Best Sommelier Competition for Italian Wines (2025), the National Wine Pairing Competition (2026), the National Sommelier Competition (2027), and the Best Sommelier Competition for French Wines (2028). The event also featured the distinguished presence of special guests and industry allies, such as Raúl Rodríguez, Jorge Wolf, Paula Rivera (representing El Catador), Eddy Consuegra (Manuel González Cuesta), and hosts Roland Roy and Emilio D'Achille of Osteria Nona Nadia, whose support was instrumental in the event's success. The Dominican Sommelier Association extends its sincere gratitude to all the sponsors who supported this celebration, including: Winemelier, Álvarez & Sánchez, Casa Brugal, El Catador, El Celler, Manuel González Cuesta, Almacenes Continente, High Spirits, Maná, MFK, Sembra, and Vinosofía. Their continued collaboration strengthens the growth and continuity of our activities. However, it was also a time for reflection. Low participation was evident among members who, having confirmed their attendance, did not show up or offer justification. This situation will be evaluated by the Disciplinary Committee, with the aim of strengthening the true commitment of the membership. All members of the Executive Committee are called upon to assume their role with active and sustained responsibility. The celebration of this International Sommelier Day was, without a doubt, a tribute to the legacy, an affirmation of the present, and a call to responsibly build the future of Dominican sommelierism. We invite all members to proudly embrace this identity, actively participate, and continue to elevate the name of our profession. "Freely give, freely given."
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This Is What a National Sommelier Competition Looks Like: Between Drinks and Passion
Behind every impeccable service and accurate recommendation lie years of study, training, and a deep passion for wine. All of this is put to the test during the National Sommelier Competition, the most important event organized by the Dominican Sommelier Association (ADS). Each year, the country's best talents compete in a day that goes far beyond pouring a glass. The tests include blind tasting, theoretical pairing, wine defect identification, decanting, formal service, and resolving real-life customer situations. The pressure is high, but so is the level of professionalism and dedication demonstrated by the participants. For the competitors, this event represents a unique opportunity to measure their skills, receive feedback from international judges, and advance their path to regional and global competitions. But beyond the prizes, what emerges at the competition is a true community spirit, where each sommelier represents not only their knowledge, but also their story and commitment to excellence. The public, for their part, enjoys an educational and exciting experience. From witnessing a decanting process executed with millimetric precision to hearing the justification for a pairing, every moment reflects the art and science of sommelierdom. With the support of the ADS and the endorsement of international organizations such as the ASI and the APAS, this competition continues to raise the professional standard in the Dominican Republic and showcase our talent to the world. Between glasses, aromas, and strategic decisions, you experience an intense, educational, and exciting day. Because in every competition, wine, service, and the vocation of those who proudly defend it are honored.
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How to Choose a Wine Like a Pro? Advice from Our Sommeliers
Choosing a wine can seem like a daunting task, especially given the wide variety of labels, varieties, and regions available. But with some key tips from our sommeliers, you can make better decisions—no expert required. 1. Define the occasion: Before choosing a wine, consider what you need it for. Is it for a formal dinner, a casual get-together, or a special gift? A sparkling wine is ideal for celebrating, while a robust red pairs best with red meat and a more serious evening. 2. Consider the pairing: Harmony between wine and food is essential. White wines generally pair well with fish, seafood, or lighter dishes, while reds pair with more intense flavors. Spicy food? Try a slightly sweet wine like a Riesling. 3. Don't be swayed by the label alone: A striking label doesn't always guarantee quality. Look at the country of origin, the grape variety, and the vintage. If you're unfamiliar with the winery, do your research or ask a sommelier for a recommendation. 4. Dare to discover: Don't limit yourself to what you already know. Explore wines from emerging or less commercial regions: Latin America, Eastern Europe, or even Dominican wines, which are increasingly offering higher quality. 5. Ask and learn: Talk to sommeliers, consult in specialty stores, or participate in tastings. The more you know, the better choices you'll make. Choosing a wine like a pro doesn't mean knowing everything, but rather having the curiosity and openness to enjoy the winemaking journey. With each bottle, a new experience is also uncorked.
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From the Caribbean to the World: The Evolution of the Dominican Sommelier
Over the past two decades, the role of the sommelier in the Dominican Republic has ceased to be an unknown concept and has become a pillar of the national gastronomic culture. What began as a vocation limited to luxury hotels and specialty restaurants now represents a recognized, dynamic, and constantly growing career. The creation of the Dominican Sommelier Association (ADS) in 2003 marked a turning point in this evolution. Thanks to the vision of its founder, Maestro Pablo Díaz, and the work of successive generations of passionate professionals, Dominican sommelier expertise has gained a presence in international competitions, fostered ongoing training, and contributed to democratizing access to wine culture. The official incorporation of the ADS into the Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (ASI) in 2017 opened new doors for the country's sommeliers, consolidating their global reach and enabling their participation in high-level events such as the Best Sommelier of the Americas Competition and the World Sommelier Competition. Today, Dominican sommeliers not only know their wines but also master the art of pairing, service, communication, and wine and food management. From local restaurants to international stages, our professionals proudly represent the talent of the Caribbean. The progress we have made is cause for celebration, but also a call to continue strengthening this discipline. With more interested young people, a more conscious industry, and the institutional support of the ADS, Dominican sommeliers are ready to continue providing, with knowledge and elegance, a future full of opportunities.
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