Meet Your Somm: Gabriella Gera

Why would you leave your native Hungary where you can replace tea with Tokaj and having it for breakfast? Regardless, Budapest transplant Gabriella Gera qualified as a sommelier in Argentina recently. After a stint at Florería Atlántico, she’s now woman-ing the cave at top meating place, Don Julio, in Palermo.

What was your last pairing recommendation?

Crispy sweetbreads with Montesco Agua de Roca 2013.

What did you drink last night?

Moscato with a slice of fugazzetta rellena at El Imperio pizzeria.

What’s your favourite wine region in the world and why?

The southern shore of the Lake Balaton, the region of Balatonbolglár in Hungary, which is where my parents live. Fantastic white wines.

What do you love most about your job?

The contact with people who share a love for wine.

Name a gem in your personal cellar.

Sárga Borház Tokaji Eszencia 2007.

The best thing that ever happened to you as a somm?

Watching customers from a distance enjoying the wine I recommended.

If you were a wine, you’d be:

Once I filled in a test just for fun, and it said I’d be a Blaufrankisch. Don’t ask me why.

Ph: courtesy of Gabriella Gera