Sommelier Matias Benjamin Vergara
Miami Beach, FL – Bâoli-Vita, a much sought-after destination for Mediterranean cuisine and exciting nightlife, has appointed Matias Benjamin Vergara as its new sommelier. “Matias has a very unique and innovative approach when it comes to selecting wine,” saysBâoli-Vita General Manager Michael Ridard. “His years of experience and focus on making wine an integral part of a guest’s visit made him a clear choice for the position.” Matias brings with him over 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry and has chosen a selection of wines that not only compliment the menu, but add another exciting layer to the vibrant atmosphere at Bâoli-Vita.
“Great wine is an important part of the experience at Bâoli-Vita,” says Matias. “When I’m selecting one, everything goes into that choice-the wine itself, of course, but also the food, the setting, the people, the feeling of that day, and the vibe of Miami Beach.”
Bâoli-Vita’s wine list includes a variety of selections from Italy, Spain, the U.S., and South America as well an extensive collection of French vintages that pay homage to the restaurant’s original locations in Cannes, France. “Some of my favorite wines on the menu right now are the Salon – Blanc de Blancs – Le Mesnil, Puligny Montrachet, “Les Folatieres” 1er Cru – Domaine Paul Pernot, Insignia by Joseph Phelps – Cabernet Sauvignon – Napa Valley, and the Chateau Haut Brion – Pessac Leognan – First Growth.”
Matias began his career in the hospitality industry in 1996, working in a variety of Miami restaurants. He sought positions where he could gain hands-on experience with restaurant beverage programs to further develop his knowledge of wine and in 2007 became a server at the Forge, a Miami restaurant known for its impressive wine collection. While at Forge, Matias assisted Sommelier Gino Santangelo in expanding the restaurant’s cellar and after three years, Matias was named sommelier. Together with Santaneglo, they introduced the Enomatic System-a novel wine program in which machines which offer precise, variable pours and temperature control-to the restaurant. The duo’s work was recognized by the Miami New Times as “Best Wine Selection in a Restaurant” for 2010. Now at Bâoli-Vita, Matias selects the best wines available to ensure guests are offered the signature experience the restaurant is known for.
Bâoli-Vita is located at 1906 Collins Avenue in Miami Beach and is open for dinner nightly from 7:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m. For more information, please call (305) 674-8822 or visit www.baoli-group.com.
