Aldo Sohm

Le Bernardin, New York

A passionate professional bringing the fun to wine

Nominative determinism at its finest, as Aldo Sohm is named the winner of The Best Sommelier Award, sponsored by Vik, as part of North America's 50 Best Restaurants 2026. Wine director of Le Bernardin, the temple to fine French seafood in Midtown Manhattan, Sohm presides over one of the most formidable cellars in the whole of the US: a 15,000-bottle collection spanning around 900 labels. But it's not just about the numbers – what sets Sohm apart is his commitment to making wine accessible and enjoyable.

Born in Austria, Sohm rose through the ranks of the global sommelier scene at speed, earning the title of Best Sommelier in Austria multiple times, before clinching the title of Best Sommelier in America in 2007. Just a year later, he was named the Best Sommelier in the World by the Worldwide Sommelier Association. These accolades cemented his reputation as one of the most technically gifted palates of his generation, but his warmth and rapport with guests is what's made him such a beloved fixture at Le Bernardin.

In 2014, Sohm opened Aldo Sohm Wine Bar, a more relaxed counterpoint to Le Bernardin where his philosophy comes into full focus: a meticulously curated yet approachable list paired with unfussy dishes, encouraging guests to explore and try something new. The project has garnered critical acclaim, including recognition from the James Beard Foundation as a semi-finalist for Outstanding Bar in 2026.

Beyond the dining room, Sohm's influence extends into publishing and products. His bestselling books, co-authored with Christine Muhlke – Wine Simple: A Totally Approachable Guide from a World-Class Sommelier, and Wine Simple: Perfect Pairings – distil complex wine knowledge into manageable sips, while his position as a Zalto glassware brand ambassador and a corkscrew two years in the making with Laguiole show he cares about every detail of the wine experience. His own label wine, Sohm & Kracher grüner veltliner, further showcases his connection to Austrian roots.

Despite a career studded with awards – and now the winner of The Best Sommelier Award, sponsored by Vik, as part of North America's 50 Best Restaurants 2026 – Sohm remains grounded. He has an impressive depth of knowledge and shares it with passion and enthusiasm.

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