The Water Sommelier is now well established in both the water industry and the gastronomy. Here are 8 reasons why every mineral water company should work with an independent water sommelier.
Credibility and objectivity
A Water Sommelier is considered an expert in his or her field and is seen as credible by consumers and professionals. An independent Water Sommelier can be even more trusted than an in-house Sommelier due to their neutral position. Their judgement is perceived as objective and professional. An in-house Sommelier is likely to be less trusted because he or she is employed by the bottler and has a direct sales perspective.
Sensory expertise
Water Sommeliers are trained experts in the taste, mineralisation and mouthfeel of water. They can help to professionally describe and highlight the sensory characteristics of mineral water.
Product positioning and marketing
A Water Sommelier can use his or her market knowledge, expert analysis and description of the water to help position it in the premium segment or for specific consumer needs. Their recommendations can make marketing campaigns more credible and effective. In-house Sommeliers can become blind to the business over the years and lose sight of the big picture.
Comparison with the competition
An independent Water Sommelier can highlight the strengths and weaknesses of a mineral water compared to the competition. This can be crucial for product development and brand strategy.
Training and customer loyalty
Sommeliers can provide training for staff, caterers and retailers to improve understanding of water quality and specialities. This strengthens customer loyalty and increases appreciation of the product.
Recommendations for the on and off-trade
A certified Water Sommelier can recommend pairings of mineral water with specific foods and beverages, such as wine or coffee, which can increase sales in fine dining restaurants or retail stores.
Sustainability and transparency
An independent expert can also provide a credible judgement on the sustainability and purity of the water, an important factor for consumers in times of growing environmental awareness.
Additional promotion
An independent Water Sommelier who regularly organises tastings, is booked for events or is present in the media, such as radio, television and magazines, can incorporate waters he or she believes in into their activities, thus creating an additional marketing opportunity.
The above reasons show how important a Water Sommelier can be to a water company. In certain cases, they can even be a key competitive factor.
With that in mind: Drink water, #stayhydrated and work with a Water Sommelier 😉!
Best regards
Timo Bausch
Certified Water Sommelier
About Timo Bausch
My fascination with mineral waters began in 2016 during my training as a Water Sommelier. Since then, I have been exploring the characteristics and diversity of water. In addition to pairing water with food, wine, coffee and other beverages, I offer the creation of water menus for restaurants and hotels. Furthermore, it is also important to me to draw attention to the importance of drinking water.
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