Somm

Somm is a 2012 American documentary film that provides a gripping, behind-the-scenes look at the prestigious Master Sommelier examination, an exam that has been passed by less than 300 people worldwide at that time. Directed by Jason Wise and featuring an ensemble cast that includes Bo Barrett, Shayn Bjornholm, Dave Cauble, among others, the film offers an engaging and authentic deep-dive into the world of sommeliers and wine.

The documentary film follows four individuals with different backgrounds and varying levels of experience, all of whom share one common goal: to pass the notoriously difficult and intense Master Sommelier exam. This globally respected qualification takes years of study, preparation, and practice, requiring an in-depth understanding of almost every possible aspect of wine.

Bo Barrett, a winemaker and the son of the vintner who produced the California wine that won France's famed Judgement of Paris in 1976, shares his perspectives on wine and the industry, providing invaluable insights into the history, art, and science of wine-making. Shayn Bjornholm, a well-respected sommelier and wine educator, also offers his professional wisdom and experiences throughout the film. Meanwhile, Dave Cauble's role draws on his experiences as a beverage professional and part of the competitive circuit of sommeliers.

Over more than 90 minutes, Somm takes viewers on a riveting, intellectual, and emotional roller coaster ride, as we experience first-hand the pressure, tension, elation, and despair these individuals undergo during their grueling preparation for the exam. Whether you're a casual wine enthusiast or a seasoned sommelier, the spectrum of characters, humor, and stories woven together in this documentary will likely keep you engaged from start to finish.

From whispers of secret study sessions to absorbing footage of blind taste tests, Somm compellingly captures the intensity of the exam’s preparation process. It invites viewers into the challenge of not just identifying the grape, vintage, and vineyard a wine comes from, but also understanding its history, soil, and climate. The film lays bare the sheer amount of knowledge, sensory acuity, and dedication needed to succeed in this profession. And it is far from limited to wine—cigars, sake, spirits, beer, and even pairings with food service protocols are all essential wider knowledge areas.

Somm lifts the curtain on this somewhat secretive and exclusive aspect of the wine industry, exposing a world where obsession, passion, and the pursuit of perfection collide. The film bares the raw, unvarnished reality of what it takes to enter an elite club of master sommeliers, showing the toll it takes not only on the individuals themselves but also on their relationships with friends, family, and partners.

Moreover, it balances its heady load of in-depth wine information with moments of levity. The camaraderie, banter, and often humorous quips amongst the four principal subjects offer a delightful contrast to the otherwise intense study sessions. The film provides numerous laugh-out-loud moments which work effectively to alleviate the underlying tension and stress of the main narrative, making it both insightful and entertaining.

The filmmakers further enrich the viewing experience with stunning visuals of vineyards and wineries, and a compelling original soundtrack underscoring the emotional beats of the narrative. The polished cinematography and smart editing enhance the gripping narrative, immersing the audience into the world of these sommeliers.

Somm is not just about wine, nor is it just about the harrowing exam; it's a human story about aspiration, hard work, and friendship. It's about the journey as much as it is the destination. By offering a captivating, behind-the-scenes look into a realm most people never see, Somm brilliantly captures the tumultuous path to greatness and the dedication it takes to achieve a rare level of professional success.

In summary, Somm is a must-watch for wine enthusiasts, connoisseurs, and anyone curious about the intense journey and sacrifices made by those pursuing the coveted Master Sommelier status. It's a film that will likely make you appreciate the next bottle of wine you open, and the skilled sommelier who can guide your choice, much more deeply.