Darshit Bhatia, the Certified Sommelier on Princess Cruises, hosts wine-tasting sessions, conducts staff training, oversees wine procurement, recommends and upsells wines and curates wine selections for special themed dinners. With his role bringing something new every day, Bhatia describes it as diverse and exciting and chats with Sommeliers Choice Awards about his unwavering passion for being a sommelier and his ultimate dream to earn the Master Sommelier title. 

Also read: Alexia Fagundes Klein On Navigating A World-Class Wine Experience On A Luxury Cruise

Tell us a little about your background 

Coming from Gujarat, one of India’s four dry states, I always knew I wanted to take a path less traveled. While many around me pursued traditional career choices, I felt the urge to try something different. That’s when I decided to step into the hospitality industry. Leaving my hometown was a big step, but it opened the door to endless opportunities. Fast forward a few years, and I’m now working as a sommelier for one of the world’s largest cruise liner companies—a role I genuinely love. 

Why do you like being a sommelier?

I was fascinated by how wines could elevate food, tell stories, and bring people together. Soon, I developed a deep appreciation for the intricate knowledge required—understanding terroir, mastering pairings, and uncovering the artistry behind every bottle. Sharing this expertise is one of the most rewarding aspects of my role, as I help guests uncover new favorites and enrich their dining experiences.

Image Title: Certified Sommelier Darshit Bhatia

Tell us about your most unforgettable wine experience.

One of my most memorable experiences as a sommelier on a cruise ship was hosting a Super Tuscan-themed dinner, bringing a taste of Tuscany to guests cruising through Alaska. The evening began with Tuscan spumante and a dining room adorned with rustic decor, evoking an Italian villa. The four-course menu featured dishes like bruschetta paired with Chianti Classico and osso buco with Tignanello. I shared the story of Super Tuscans and guided guests in pairing insights. The event delighted guests, boosted wine sales, and highlighted how thematic dinners can create unforgettable experiences—even at sea.

What are some of the most important skills for a sommelier?

For me, passion is the most essential aspect of being a successful sommelier. When you’re passionate about wine, you can share your knowledge in a way that truly inspires and captivates diners. You should also have excellent conversational and sales skills. You should also be competent in identifying and describing different flavor profiles and pairing them with various dishes so that your guests can have a delectable dining experience.

Also read: Questions and Answers on Chilean Terroir with Julio Bastias of Viña Matetic

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How do you improve your knowledge about wines?

When it comes to learning about wines, I prefer reading books and watching videos online. I have a copy of the Wine Bible, which I like to refer to occasionally. I would pick a random region to learn about and start reading the chapter. Apart from that, I usually visit GuildSomm or watch wine-related videos on YouTube, including one of my faves, the Unknown Winecaster. 

How do you help passengers choose wines on the cruise?

I start by asking if they’ve had any memorable wine experiences or are looking for a meal pairing, which helps me understand their preferences. I also ask if they prefer something light and refreshing or bold and rich to narrow down options. If they’ve enjoyed a particular wine, I can suggest something similar, and if there’s a special occasion, I can recommend a wine to enhance the experience. Lastly, I check if they’re open to trying something new or prefer familiar flavors. These conversations help guests discover wines they’ll love and make the experience memorable.

Image Title: Princess Cruises Wine Selection

How do you elevate the guest experience? 

Elevating the guest experience as a sommelier requires a blend of knowledge, personalization, and engagement. Personalized recommendations are key; taking time to understand guests’ preferences, dietary needs, and flavor profiles allows for tailored wine suggestions that enhance their meal. Offering brief, engaging insights into the wines, such as stories about the vineyard or unique characteristics, adds depth and helps guests feel connected to their choices. Interactive tastings, like wine flights, can further enrich the experience, creating memorable moments and sparking conversations. Food pairing expertise is another crucial element. Suggesting wines that complement specific dishes demonstrates a strong understanding of both wine and cuisine. Following up with guests after serving a wine shows attentiveness, allowing for adjustments and fostering a more personalized connection.

How would you train a new staff member in their first 7 days?

The first week for a new team member is crucial and supporting them is essential for ensuring productivity and efficiency. During this period, I focus on balancing knowledge with practical experience. I focus on key areas like helping them understand our extensive list of wines by the glass options. I encourage hands-on practice at the dispense bar during quiet times to help them learn the selection, including substitutes for unavailable wines. I make it a priority that they know about special beverage programs, like promotions or featured wines, which drive revenue and boost post-event sales. 

What's your personal career goal? And how are you investing or planning to get there?

My ultimate goal is to become a Master Sommelier. It’s still a bit far off, but you never know. For now, my focus is on preparing for the Advanced Sommelier exam, taking it one step at a time. To stay consistent, I dedicate at least 30 minutes daily to studying theory, while my job naturally provides opportunities to refine my tasting and practical skills.

Header image by Darshit Bhatia

Related links
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