Deoraj Bhugoo, Sommelier

The Grand Mauritian resort & Spa is fast becoming known not only for its beautiful location and sumptuous surroundings, but also for its high culinary standards.

It would of course not be possible to provide such a culinary experience without a qualified and experienced sommelier, and the hotel is indeed fortunate to have the services of one of the best sommeliers in the Indian Ocean, Deoraj Bhugoo.

Interview of Deoraj Bhugoo,  Sommelier of The Grand Mauritian Resort & Spa

Deoraj Bhugoo, affectionately known as ‘Bhugs' has over 10 years experience in the hotel trade and has now specialized in the wine trade for over 6 years, becoming the most successful and recognized sommelier on the island. His passion for wine is matched for his passion to communicate why he loves wines so much, and this infectious desire has made him a favouriet character with all that he meets.  

What made you interested in wine?

I started my career as a trainee waiter, 14 years ago. During my early career as a waiter, wine always fascinated me due to its various characteristic in terms of grape variety, color, texture aroma etc... That's how my curiosity started which later turned in to a hobby, passion and a career.

What do you think is so special about being a sommelier?

It always makes you stand out as here I have more scope of creativity in terms of wine-food harmony, I get a chance to meet people around the globe, travel across the world to see different winery, wine makers and bring back the experience home and blend it with my own creativity to wow our guests and fellow ambassadors.

There are many debates about whether wines are good for you. What is your opinion?

According to me wine is not just a drink it about years of hard labor creativity and luck (in terms of weather, vintage) which finally bring a fine product to enjoy and to socialize. But like every good thing, excess of wine drinking is also bad.

What is the most expensive wine carried by the Grand Mauritian?

Chateau Petrus 1999

In these harsh economic times, is wine a good investment?

Yes because wine is a culture, and culture does not depend on economic ups and down but at present scene we need to have a bit more patience.

How many wines does the hotel carry?

The Grand Mauritian offer around 250 different wines.

In a blind tasting of say ten different wines, how many can you accurately predict?

I can't say unless I do it. I will give it a try soon.... This will be fun!

If you could choose any wine for your all time favorite what would it be?

Champagne- Billecart Salmon Rose
Red Wine- Full bodied wine like Bordeaux style 

The rule of thumb is that red wine should always be drunk with red meat, white with fish?

Not always true, like a salmon with creamy mushroom sauce would go well with a light or medium bodied red wine.