After the participation of Richard Pons in Trophee Ruinart in 1998 (a competition where the best sommeliers of Europe compete for the accolade to become the Sommelier of Europe for that year), his ambition was to create a Maltese association relating to the service and training of food and beverage personnel in Malta . Richard attended  The 33^rd Asi Assembly in Chile to get the accreditation for the Maltese Association.

This association was created to convey awareness of the profession. Richard and members of the committee contacted people who were interested in food and beverage principles and willing to assist in this new venture.  

       The committee consisted of people working in the food and beverage industry.  Namely  Patti Richards, Bernardett Doorley, Hubert Muscat, Oliver Magro, Marco Vella  Harish Malani. Josef Bonnello.

Richard felt that these people would be ideal committee members as they collectively have a vast knowledge of food and beverage and would have the expertise and experience to assist with his ambition to create a professional association with international accreditation. 

 Richard would like to take this opportunity to thank the original committee for their hard work and dedication preparing the foundations for the Sommelier of Malta association. Unfortunately, some members, due to their very heavy work schedules are unable to commit the necessary time required and continue as committee members. Moreover, the association is pleased to acknowledge that they are still willing to give their kind support for the improvement and enhancement through training and other activities such as creating a website for the association. 

Harish Malani represented Malta in Ruinart in 2002

The committee: appointed are Richards Pons, Patti Richards, Lino Micallef ,  Johnny Fenech and Silvio Tonna. Josef Bonnello

Activities: The Association has received nominations for membership. The objectives of the association are:

• To improve the image of the profession of the Sommelier.
• To improve the standard of service to the consumer.
• Enhance the knowledge relating to food and beverage through dedicated training seminars and wine tasting.

Formation/Training:

Various courses will be offered to members and  prospecting candidates who are interested in learning about the profession of the Sommelier.

The Maltese Association will adopt a grading structure, the candidates will be positioned into three levels (basic, intermediate and advance level)

Once approved by ASI.(Association of Sommelier International). The Sommelier Association of Malta is planning an International Sommelier Exhibition in 2004/2005. The objectives of this exhibition would be to create awareness of the merits of being involved with an accredited sommelier association. Meeting with other members of an international association will benefit the Maltese food and beverage industry through exchanged views and experience. Detailed program to follow in due course.