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Sommelier

Gabriel Lithander

Meet Gabriel Lithander, Head of Sommelier at Jordnær in Copenhagen, ranked No.38 The World's 50 Best Restaurants 2022

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A Journey Rooted in Passion

For as long as I can remember, food has been central to my life, deeply rooted in my childhood memories. Paired with my passion for wine, hospitality, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, my time at Jordnær over the past three and a half years has been a natural fit, allowing me to thrive in a world that combines all these elements.

A Natural Calling

When I pursued formal education at Stockholm’s International Hospitality & Restaurant School, graduating in 2014, it felt like a natural step. During my school years, I worked evenings and weekends as a waiter, gaining hands-on experience in the "front of house" operations and igniting a growing fascination with wine. This formative period gave me my first glimpse into the art of hospitality.

In 2018, I joined the team at Daniel Berlin** in Skåne-Tranås, a transformative chapter in my career. There, I honed my service skills, embraced new challenges, and pursued my dream of becoming a sommelier. I completed my sommelier certification in 2019 at the age of 23, marking a pivotal moment in my professional journey.

Crafting Pairings and Experiences

Today, I’m proud to serve as Assistant Manager and Head Sommelier at Jordnær***, working alongside Tina Kragh Vildgaard to curate a wine program that perfectly complements Chef Eric Vildgaard’s exceptional cuisine. My focus is on creating harmonious food and wine pairings that elevate the guest experience. Whether exploring wines from unique, small-scale producers or revisiting timeless classics, I approach pairings with a philosophy of simplicity, letting exceptional wines and dishes shine together.

Beyond pairings, I continuously evolve Jordnær’s wine list, ensuring it not only aligns with the restaurant's culinary vision but also caters to diverse preferences. This balance between tradition and innovation reflects my commitment to offering something extraordinary for every guest.

Looking Ahead

My journey in hospitality has been shaped by curiosity, discipline, and an unwavering passion for creating memorable dining experiences. With every pairing, every interaction, and every bottle of wine, I aim to enrich the moments that bring people together. At Jordnær, I continue to grow, learn, and contribute to a legacy of excellence.

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