We’ve all heard of wine sommeliers, revered for their expertise in selecting and pairing wines. But what exactly does it mean to be a water sommelier?
Much like their wine counterparts, water sommeliers are connoisseurs dedicated to understanding and appreciating the subtle nuances of water. They curate experiences that elevate water far beyond its traditional role as a mere thirst-quencher, revealing its potential as a sophisticated element of epicurean delight. You might think that all water tastes the same, but Dr. Michael Mascha, a pioneering expert in the field, challenges this notion. "Water is not just water," he asserts, highlighting that it possesses terroir similar to wine, can be paired with food, and is curated by skilled water sommeliers. Dr. Mascha emphasizes, "As a water sommelier, I curate experiences with water, telling the story of water as a natural product with a terroir that holds experiences and gives wellness."
Water sommeliers like Dr. Mascha are dedicated to elevating water from a simple commodity to a product of value. By doing so, they aim to protect water sources and advocate for sustainable actions. "The Epicurean experiences with water go well beyond hydration and open up new realms for people who pay attention. Water is Life! Enjoy it!" he passionately declares.
In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards mocktails, with many people embracing sobriety for health reasons. Water, which makes up about 60% of the human body, is the ultimate drink for health and wellness. Dr. Mascha shares his personal journey: "In the spring of 2002, my cardiologist gave me a stark choice: continue drinking wine or continue living. After reflecting on my doctor's advice, I decided to give up wine and, seeking and alternative, turned to water."
Through his exploration of different bottled waters, Dr. Mascha discovered their nuanced flavor profiles and pairing potential with food. This revelation led to the creation of FineWaters, a company he founded to cultivate premium experiences centered around water.
Water sommelier experiences present an innovative avenue for creativity in event planning, transforming water from a mere beverage into a rich storytelling medium. One notable event in Colorado Springs emphasized the significance of hydration at high altitudes, featuring a diverse selection of waters from both regional and international sources. Each variety of water brought with it a distinctive story.
“The Haute Water program, led by Dr. Mascha, captivated guests at The Broadmoor in CO Springs with a tasting of eight distinctive fine waters from around the world. Each bottle told a unique story, from 50,000-year-old water formed by rain and snow cascading through volcanic terrain, infused with natural bubbles and a hint of sweetness, to the locally sourced Tahoe Artesian Water. Drawn from a hidden artesian well in California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains, this naturally alkaline water offers unparalleled purity and a soft, light taste,” explained Melis Feingold, DES, Vice President of Creative Partnerships.
The attendees found the experience captivating, particularly the innovative concept of pairing water with food. "In fine dining, we now have water menus, water sommeliers, and food pairings, showcasing the boundless potential of this essential element,” Melis added. As a trend enthusiast, Melis is always thinking about what’s next and finds joy in exploring the connections between culture and the evolving spirit of our times. Recognizing the impact of Dr. Mascha's vision in the destination management industry, Melis advocated for a partnership that would bring this unique approach to our audiences. She reflects, “As VP of Creative Partnerships, I’m thrilled to share this experience with our clients because it offers a unique opportunity to deepen connections with nature, promote long-term environmental consciousness, and create unforgettable moments that merge luxury, wellness, and sustainability.”
Brooke Snyder, Director of Sales, Colorado, also praised the experience: “I absolutely loved the Water Sommelier experience and was blown away by Dr. Mascha. The waters that we tasted were truly special – one was from an iceberg from Greenland that is 15,000 years old. So cool!” Her enthusiastic feedback underscores the profound and memorable impact of incorporating water sommelier experiences into event programming.
As we look toward 2025, water sommelier experiences present an opportunity to blend luxury with sustainability. In this experience, water is elevated to a luxury, curated by a sommelier to reveal its depth and sophistication. Beyond taste, it becomes a pathway to mindfulness, teaching guests about sustainable sourcing, responsible consumption, and the importance of preserving finite natural resources. By showcasing artisanal and locally sourced waters, the experience fosters a deeper appreciation for water as a precious resource that must be preserved.
Water also plays a central role in sustainability. Reducing plastic waste by opting for glass bottles, supporting eco-conscious practices, and partnering with charities focused on water access, all contribute to a more sustainable future. As water is paired with food, it becomes a wellness partner, enhancing happiness and self-care while deepening our connection to nature. “The most exciting part of this experience is its ability to merge health and indulgence. Water becomes a wellness partner, enhancing hydration and promoting a holistic lifestyle. Beyond hydration, it elevates guests’ understanding of water as a luxury, while championing sustainability and mindful consumption,” says Melis Feingold, DES. The water sommelier experience creates an opportunity to promote both environmental sustainability and long-term wellness, grounding guests in the simplicity and beauty of nature while inspiring mindful living.
The bond between water, the Earth, and frequencies connects us to nature’s natural rhythms and promotes positivity. Water absorbs and resonates with Earth’s vibrations, enhancing wellness and grounding us. In a water sommelier experience, guests explore how water, sourced from pure environments like glaciers or volcanic springs, carries unique healing frequencies that align with the Earth’s energy. This connection not only promotes hydration but fosters balance, peace, and joy, helping guests feel more attuned to nature.