As honorary patron of the 4th edition of the Gassier Challenge which was held this year, let’s take a closer look at the remarkable destiny of Florent Martin, Best Sommelier in France 2020!
Since his studies began, Florent Martin first won the Georges Baptiste award, on a national level in 2004 and then again on a European level in 2005. After his professional Hospitality Diploma, for which he was awarded distinction as well as first place in his area of expertise, he developed a strong and enduring passion for sommellerie competitions. In 2010 he made it to the semi-final of the Best Sommelier in France competition. In 2011 he was finalist in the Best Young Sommelier in France. Five consecutive finals followed: three for the title of Best Sommelier in France, in 2012, 2014 and 2016, and two for the Meilleur Ouvrier de France competition in the sommellerie category in 2015 and 2018.
After 11 years working at the George V in Paris, alongside Eric Beaumard and Thierry Hamon, in 2021 Florent Martin was awarded with the prestigious title of Best Sommelier in France 2020, which had been put back by a year owing to the pandemic.
It was a pleasure for us to welcome him as honorary patron this year for the 4th edition of the Chateau Gassier Challenge for future French sommeliers. His mastery of French gastronomy, his linguistic artistry and his passion for sharing emotion made him the perfect guide for these great future sommeliers. It was a fantastic experience for him, in particular thanks to the presence of these young, passionate sommeliers in the making who are determined to succeed in a career that is so dear to Florent Martin himself.
During his visit to Château Gassier, Florent Martin took the opportunity to create a dish for the cuvée Gassier Le Pas du Moine white. He chose to pair this wine with lightly seared langoustines served with a light mayonnaise made with coral and olive oil and a touch of lemon caviar. The zesty, citrus notes remind him of his origins and childhood!
In June 2021, Florent Martin took on new responsibility when he became head sommelier at the 5***** luxury hotel The Peninsula, with its sumptuous glass windows overlooking the Eiffel Tower. In collaboration with the 2 Michelin-star chef David Bizet, Florent Martin uses his savoir-faire and in depth knowledge of fine wines from France and around the world, as well as his passion for the art of service, in order to ensure an unforgettable experience for the establishment’s very select clientele. In all three of this luxury hotel’s Parisian restaurants, he guides his customers in the selection of their wines so as to ensure a unique experience based on the ultimate flavor combinations.
Florent Martin is one of just 7 sommeliers selected to represent France in the next World’s Best Sommelier competition in February 2023!