Name:
Emma Farrelly (Perth, AU)
I am:
Director of Wine, The State Buildings/Como The Treasury.
What inspired me to become a sommelier:
My parents took me to the annual ‘Flowering of the Vine’ lunch at Frankland Estate when I was 18. It was the first time I had tasted wine that made me think. I was already working in hospitality at the time, but that definitely sparked something in me to work towards a more wine focused future.
My role models are:
Probably my 2 older sisters – they have both worked very hard to succeed in their respective industries. I ask for their advice often and thoroughly respect what they have achieved. They are also both excellent mothers themselves and the best aunties to my sons. 
My greatest professional achievement is:
Being announced Gourmet Traveller Sommelier of the Year in 2018 was a pretty great and surreal moment. But I think the work I do here is an accomplishment – I am pretty tough on myself and push myself to be better all the time. I don’t think you can ever ‘settle’ in a role like this one. There’s always more to do, more to learn and more to teach.
My favourite food and beverage match is:
Excellent steak tartare with anything made by PYCM
What is the one piece of advice you would give to someone just starting their career in wine?
Always use the spittoons at tastings. And bend from the knees – you will be carrying a LOT of boxes!

 

 

Photo courtesy SHOTBYTHOM.