| Name: Ellen Franzén (Sweden) |
| I am: Head sommelier at Restaurant Gastrologik, Stockholm. |
| What inspired me to become a sommelier: To be able to work with something I really love, everyday! I have also been very lucky to meet a lot of people that inspired me to compete. |
| My role model is: The achievements of Gerard Basset have always been a source of inspiration, and still are. Also Madeleine Stenwreth MW – a real power lady! |
| My greatest professional achievement is: Winning the Swedish Sommelier Championship in 2019, and also winning the Ruinart Nordic Challenge the same year. |
| My favourite food and beverage match is: Salt and vinegar chips with oyster emulsion dip together with a Blanc de Blancs champagne… |
| What is the one piece of advice you would give to someone just starting their career in wine? Find someone that will help you keep on striving, because it’s a long road with a lot of lonely hours of tasting and studying, so support is the key! And of course, don’t give up! |
