ERIC ZWIEBEL JOINS THE SAMLING
The Samling, on the banks of Windermere, is delighted to announce that renowned sommelier Eric Zwiebel MS has joined them as Director of Wine.
Born in Alsace, Eric began his wine career by helping his parents in their restaurant, working as a waiter for two years before his father suggested a move to a 3-star Michelin restaurant where Serge Buds, Best Sommelier of the World 1989, was based and thus Eric’s love of wine was kindled.
In 1997, after 5 years, Eric moved to the UK to broaden his knowledge of the many different wine regions and to take courses offered by the Court of Master Sommeliers, with Gerard Basset mentoring him. In 2001, Zweibel achieved his Master Sommelier qualification, confirming his position amongst the world’s finest sommeliers.
In 2004, he won the Best Sommelier of the UK, 3rd place at the Best Sommelier of Europe in 2006 and 2008. He was second equal in the Best Sommelier of the World 2007 and placed 4th at the 2013 competition in Tokyo. In 2018, he passed The ASI Certificate Gold Diploma Major of Promotion Worldwide. Eric is vice President of The UK Sommeliers Association, and part of the technique community. In 2021 Eric became Cateys wine and spirit ambassador
Having overseen the wine cellars of Hotel du Vin, Cliveden House and Summer Lodge, Eric now joins The Samling, who have one of the finest wine collections in the UK, having been awarded 3 stars by the World of Fine Wine and being included in the AA’s ‘Notable Wine List Award 2022’ with a diverse and extensive collection.
Eric says “I am delighted to be joining The Samling, who have one of the finest wine cellars in England. I look forward to helping to grow their collection, and to introducing our guests to some truly wonderful wines.”
General Manager Oliver Smith says “By bringing together one of the world’s best sommeliers and one of the most impressive wine collections we are confident that The Samling will cement its reputation as the finest hotel in the UK for a truly exception wine experience. We welcome Eric and look forward to working with him.”
ENDS
Notes for Editor : Images https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/mihhi6fg4ean8hd5own1e/h?dl=0&rlkey=l6w3ep8dmyme4s46liv190ect
ERIC ZWIEBEL AWARDS
2007 Second Tied for ASI Sommelier of the World
2013 4th Finalist- Best ASI Sommelier of the World
2016 1/4 Finalist- Best ASI Sommelier of the World
2019 1/4 Finalist- Best ASI Sommelier of the World
Champagne Ruinart UK Sommelier of the year 1999-2004
1999 3rd Finalist – Champagne Ruinart UK Sommelier of the year
2000 2nd Finalist – Champagne Ruinart UK Sommelier of the year
2001 2nd Finalist – Champagne Ruinart UK Sommelier of the year
2002 2nd Finalist – Champagne Ruinart UK Sommelier of the year
2003 2nd Finalist – Champagne Ruinart UK Sommelier of the year
2004 Winner – Champagne Ruinart UK Sommelier of the year
Champagne Ruinart the Best Sommelier of Europe 2006
2006 3rd Finalist – Champagne Ruinart the Best Sommelier of Europe
Best ASI Sommelier in Europe 2008-2017
2008 3rd Finalist – Best ASI Sommelier in Europe
2013 5th Finalist – Best ASI Sommelier in Europe
2017 5th Finalist – Best ASI Sommelier in Europe
Cateys 2021. Wine and spirit Ambassador Award
About The Samling
Located above the shores of Lake Windermere, The Samling welcomes guests to enjoy exceptional hospitality, fine dining and service, surrounded by 65 acres of beautiful woodlands, meadows and gardens. With 12 stylish and luxurious rooms, ranging from Classic bedrooms through to Cottages, The Samling is the ideal destination to those looking to enjoy the stunning surroundings of Lake Windermere, and to enjoy service of the highest level. Executive Chef Robby Jenks alongside Head Chef Carl Wild creates a seasonal menu inspired by The Samling’s location, created to match the striking lakeland panorama which is the backdrop to the restaurant. Opened in 2022 The Gathering offers lunch and dinner high above Lake Windermere in one of the estate’s stunningly renovated Dutch barns. The Wine Cellar boasts over 600 of the world’s finest wines, including a strong selection of English wines, making The Samling a truly exceptional destination.
For Press Enquiries please contact
Diana Massey at The Massey Partnership
Tel +44 7939584215