Northcote retains title of Sud de France Sommelier of the Year

By Richard Siddle

Published: 26 September, 2014

Tamus Czinki, head sommelier of Michelin-starred restaurant, Northcote near Blackburn, Lancashire, has been named Sud de France Sommelier of the Year for 2014.

It is the second year in succession that Northcote has had a winning sommelier in the competition following the success of Adam Pawlowksi in 2013.

Czinki had to beat off competition from all around the country just to get to the final which included a series of writing tests and tastings.

In all nine sommeliers made it through tot the semi-final from which the final three finalists were chosen. These included Anna Martinez-Terol from Terra Vina, Czinki from Northcote and Aurelie Stagnetto from Maze.

They were then assessed by the judging panel in front of an audience which included in a blind tasting session with four wines and serving rounds. This year's judges were chaired by Master Sommelier Ronan Sayburn who said of the competition: "Sommeliers love the Sud de France competition as it's a great way to learn more about this diverse and complex wine region. This year again, I have been extremely impressed with the competing sommelier's skills and knowledge and Tamas Czinki is an excellent ambassador for the region."

Czinki said of his win: "The competition was truly enjoyable and a great experience. It is also the perfect opportunity for everyone who wants to discover this very diverse, traditional and wonderful region of France."

He will go on a four day trip to the Toques and Clochers auction in Limoux as part of its prize.

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