Vanessa Stoltz, head sommelier at Pine in Northumberland, discovered on Monday night at an awards evening held at The Dorchester, London (23rd June), that she has been ranked number 26 in the third edition of the Taylor’s Port UK Top 100 Sommeliers List – the only sommelier representing the Northeast in this year’s list.
Vanessa first entered the Top 100 in 2024, debuting at number 45, and also received a special commendation as One to Watch in the industry. Her significant rise of 19 places this year is a testament to her continued growth and commitment to her craft.
The Taylor’s Port UK Top 100 Sommelier List celebrates the skill, knowledge, and professionalism of sommeliers across the UK, recognising those who embody excellence in wine service. Nominees are put forward by industry peers, fellow sommeliers, and diners. Each candidate is then rigorously assessed by an expert panel, who evaluate their career achievements, education, experience, daily responsibilities, and performance in competitions. The judging process is designed to benchmark each sommelier’s professional development against a stringent set of criteria before assigning a final ranking.
In a milestone year, the ranking was delighted to note that one in four of the Top 50 Sommeliers this year were women, reflecting increasing diversity in a traditionally male-dominated field. Not only that, 40 of the sommeliers in this year’s ranking are from restaurants based outside London, reflecting the strength of wine culture across the UK.
Charlotte Hey, co-founder, Top 100 Sommeliers, said: “Whether you’re dining in a Michelin-starred restaurant or exploring a countryside gem, this annual ranking celebrates the sommeliers who are setting the standard for wine service nationwide. The ranking invites nominations from sommeliers and their hospitality peers from across the British Isles, making it possibly the most independent, objective and accurate ranking of its kind.”
On learning of her placement, Vanessa reflected: “To even maintain your skills as a sommelier requires constant learning and keeping pace with emerging trends – not only in wine but across the entire spectrum of drinks service, from beer, spirits, sake, to no- and low-alcohol alternatives. Success demands passion, dedication, and hard work; without that, the rewards won’t come. People often overlook the effort involved, but when you invest in your craft, honours like this feel all the more rewarding. I’m delighted that awards like this recognise and celebrate the professionalism of sommeliers and the role we play in delivering exceptional guest experiences.”
Pine’s co-owner, Sian Byerley, added: “We couldn’t be prouder of Vanessa. Featuring in the Top 100 for a second consecutive year is a fantastic achievement, and climbing 19 places is extraordinary. This ranking reflects her hard work, dedication, and constant pursuit of knowledge. We’re absolutely thrilled for her and proud to have her representing Pine and the Northeast.”