Want Some Cheese With That?

Several lines offer "sommeliers" - some with actual certifications, others in name only, but are you aware there are cheese sommeliers as well? Crystal Cruises is quite aware, and is working toward providing an expert experience to their cruisers.

Crystal Cruises has been taking steps to gain certification for all of its onboard wine and cheese sommeliers -- and expects to reach that goal in 2008. Overseeing the certification of Crystal's wine sommeliers is Master Sommelier Robert Bath, one of only 124 worldwide to hold this title and the creative force behind the wine program at the lauded French Laundry. Cheese sommeliers will be certified by Professor Gerhard Ebner of the International Cheese Academy at the Hotel and Tourism School in Bad Gleichenberg, Austria. Certification for Crystal's cheese and wine sommeliers takes more than 60 hours of schooling and 5.5 hours of testing.

The wine sommeliers can share in-depth information about the history, horticulture, vineyards, and subtle flavors of the wines being tasted. The cheese sommeliers will be expanding Crystal's selection of regional and artisanal cheeses and can offer insights on sampling suggestions, the harmony with wines and spirits, and information on the history, manufacturing and distinctions of each cheese. The hands-on training, which includes visiting dairies and cheese shops, and studying and tasting fine cheeses, provides the sommeliers with knowledge of from numerous countries with an emphasis on France, Switzerland, Spain, Portugal and England.

YUM!