Emma Denney, head sommelier at Claridge's and a renowned figure in the wine scene, did not grow up in a wine-centric environment. Despite her humble beginnings in Auckland, she developed a strong culinary curiosity from her parents’ diverse cooking habits. Starting her journey in hospitality as a dishwasher, Denney's exposure to the wine world blossomed in a wine bar. A pivotal moment came after watching the documentary 'Somm,' which inspired her to pursue a career in wine. Her determination led her to study with a Master Sommelier and further hone her skills in London, becoming one of the UK's leading sommeliers.
"I didn't grow up in a wine family. I'm from Auckland... New Zealand doesn't really have sommeliers unless you're dining at the super fancy high-end restaurants..."
"I didn't necessarily have the knowledge I needed, but I learned fast. I fell into hospitality, beginning at the very bottom of the ladder as a dishwasher at 13."
"Then I watched the documentary Somm. I loved hospitality, but I didn't want to be a general manager, so I didn't know what I wanted to do..."
"I got humbled very quickly. But my ego got the better of me, and I brushed up on my French and Italian wines."
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