What is a Master Sommelier?

O.k., so I have decided to do the unthinkable, document the countdown until my Master Sommelier Diploma Exam to be held in Napa from February 23-25th, 2010. In the name of Julie and Julia, I thought it might be fun slash inspiring to share what I will endure to prepare for the final challenge of the Holy Grail with anyone who is interested in reading my blog. As I listen to my new favorite song, Run Honey Run, by Morcheeba (that actually came out in February of last year), here begins my liquid journey:

Yesterday, 1/11/2010

Received the email from the court that I would be able to sit for the exam in February…YIPPEE!! Am I excited? Yes. Am I scared? Absolutely. Do I have high hopes? But of course.

Stephen blinds me with a ringer…see post before last to understand what ringer is .I completely blow it. Couldn’t identify a Loire Sauvignon Blanc on the 6th try. Why am I doing this to myself?

Go to bed before self-doubt and self-loathing eat me alive.

Today, 1/12/2010

Wake up in the morning and check www.guildsomm.com

Where is Vire Clesse? Check

Criots Batard Montrachet is a grand cru of what village? Check minus

What is the unofficial 8th Grand Cru of Chablis? Missed it by a hair

Go through the motions of the day…send in my check for $800 big ones and start looking for flights on www.hotwire.com

SCORE! Find a round trip flight to San Francisco from Raleigh, NC for $256, including taxes, at least I’m doing something right.

Ask sweet husband what he thinks about service, where should I focus my studies when it comes to working the floor…decide upselling is crucial

Get home, love all over my children and get ready for my blind tasting

4 minutes per wine…finish at 7.34.09

Final conclusions: Pinot Gris from Friuli 2007 and Brunello di Montalcino 2003

Right wines: Pinot Gris from Oregon 2007 and Chianti Fiorentini 2006

varietals were right, but specifics were not

Time to go to bed…as my facebook friend says, “Keep the faith”