In this world, perfection is the standard, and no detail is left to chance. This commitment to excellence extends to every aspect of the dining experience, including the selection of sommeliers. In 2019, the restaurant made a strategic decision that would ultimately lead to extraordinary achievements: they appointed Miguel Ángel Millán as their sommelier. Today, he proudly holds the prestigious title of Beronia World's Best Sommelier for the year 2023, a testament to his exceptional expertise and dedication to the art of wine.
A Madrid Native with a Passion for Hospitality
Miguel Ángel Millán's journey in the world of hospitality began in the vibrant heart of Madrid. Raised in this bustling city, he developed an early affinity for the world of fine dining and hospitality. However, it was while working in the realm of high-end catering that his passion truly ignited, setting the stage for a remarkable career in the industry.
A pivotal moment in Miguel Ángel's journey occurred when he joined the illustrious Jockey, a celebrity hotspot and one of Madrid's original fine dining venues. It was here that his fascination with wines blossomed. Amidst the clinking of glasses and the buzz of culinary excellence, he discovered a world of flavors, aromas, and possibilities.
Excelling in Sommelier Training
Dedicated to honing his craft, Miguel Ángel excelled in his sommelier training, graduating at the top of his class. His passion for wine continued to flourish, leading him to embark on a transformative journey through some of Spain's most renowned culinary establishments.
From Santceloni to Kabuki: A Journey of Pairing Mastery
Miguel Ángel Millán's formative years were spent at the esteemed Spanish restaurant Santceloni, where he further deepened his wine knowledge and refined his palate. Later, he ventured into the world of Michelin-starred cuisine at Kabuki, a Japanese fusion gem. It was at Kabuki where he delved into the art of pairing wines with Asian-influenced dishes, broadening his expertise and culinary horizons.
The Perfect Fit for Diverxo's Global Cuisine
When he joined the team at Diverxo, Miguel Ángel's diverse experiences made him the ideal candidate for the role. Dabiz Muñoz's culinary creations span the globe in terms of inspiration, techniques, and flavors, often with a distinctive Asian influence. With a quiet confidence and an innate ability to understand diners' desires, Miguel Ángel set to work enhancing the restaurant's wine offerings.
A Curator of Excellence
Under his guidance, the restaurant's wine cellar underwent a transformation. Miguel Ángel meticulously curated a collection that surpassed 1,500 references, reaching beyond wine to include rare sakes tailored to complement the chef's innovative dishes, such as cold pigeon with smoked caviar and grilled egg yolk.
Miguel Ángel Millán is renowned for his unwavering dedication to his craft. He leaves no stone unturned, going to great lengths to source specific vintages and connect with small-scale producers. Yet, it is his commitment to guest satisfaction that truly sets him apart. Whether it's a rare bottle of 1992 Fleury Pére et Fils Symphonie d'Europe Extra Brut or a simple glass of Spanish white wine enjoyed at the guest's own pace, Miguel Ángel's mission is to ensure every diner leaves the restaurant a little happier.
With his encyclopedic knowledge of Spanish wines, Miguel Ángel Millán has long been regarded as a leader in his country. He previously received the Best Sommelier award at Spain's national newspaper El Mundo's Metropoli awards, a recognition that highlighted his qualities of style, restraint, care, and skill.
A Global Influence in the World of Wine
Now, with the prestigious Beronia World's Best Sommelier accolade added to his repertoire, Miguel Ángel Millán is poised to make an even more significant impact on the global stage. This award recognises individuals who display innovation, deep knowledge, exceptional customer service, and outstanding communication skills in the world of wine and beverages. Voted for by the Academy, composed of 1,080 independent restaurant industry experts and well-traveled gourmets from across the world, it solidifies Miguel Ángel's position as a true luminary in the world of sommeliers.
