What It Means to Be a Sommelier at the Disneyland Resort

Jim Ames

by , Event Manager, Walt Disney Parks & Resorts

If you have ever experienced a great glass of wine while dining at the Disneyland Resort, chances are you were assisted by one of our many sommeliers – more than 165 throughout the Resort.

For years the image of a sommelier has been stuffy and intimidating. Sommeliers are typically wine stewards who are trained wine professionals and work in fine restaurants. At the Disneyland Resort, we try to take that stuffy image and put a friendly, welcoming face on it. I’m a Certified Sommelier and, come on, don’t I look friendly?

We are eager to help demystify the world of wine, act as your personal guide as you navigate a wine list and most importantly, assist you in selecting the ideal wine based on your personal preferences or meal selection.

Sommelier at Disneyland Resort

The sommeliers at the Disneyland Resort go through a rigorous training regimen, and for me at times it felt more difficult than college! We are also required to pass a series of exams given by an esteemed panel of Master Sommeliers. Over the next few weeks I’ll chat more about our training as well as introduce you to a few of my fellow sommeliers. I’m excited to have the opportunity to share with you my passion for both great food and wine.

Whether you consider yourself a wine expert – or you’re just beginning to explore the artistry of bottled poetry – the sommeliers at the Disneyland Resort are here to help. Don’t be afraid to ask. As your newest Disney Parks Blog author, and as a certified sommelier, I look forward to introducing you to our program and our expertise.

Cheers!

Comments

  • Looking forward to reading your blog, Jim.

  • Great to see you on these pages Jim!
    I’d say you’re more than qualified for this new assignment 🙂
    I’m looking forward to reading more of your posts.

  • I am always absolutely amazed at the care and devotion Disney gives to every inch of it’s parks. Who knew that there were wine experts at Disneyland. Absoulutely amazing! I wish every company cared as much about their image and product as Disney does! Thanks Disney, for EVERYTHING!!!

  • I have my intorductory certification from the Master Court of Sommerliers and being a sommelier at the Disnayland resort would be a realized dream come true!

  • I’ve only enjoyed wine pairings at Napa Rose. Which restaurant is this?

  • I think it’s great that you will be writing about wine for the site — I think more people need to understand that wine is about exploration not “fancy” knowledge.

    I’d be curious to hear about any wines that are exclusive to the Mouse. And what Disney does to help educate its guests about wine!

Comments are closed.