ASI Bootcamp Singapore with Giulio Barducci

ASI Singapore Sommelier Bootcamp

Read Giulio Barducci’s experience at the ASI Bootcamp in Singapore, which he described as nothing short of surreal.

What surprised you most about the ASI Malaysia Sommelier Bootcamp?

What truly surprised me was the extraordinary depth of knowledge and the sheer passion demonstrated by our tutors, sponsors, and the Sommelier Association Singapore. 

I had already been following many of the tutors on social media and YouTube, admiring their expertise from afar, so being able to meet them in person, engage in meaningful conversations, and even share a drink together felt absolutely surreal. It was a unique privilege to interact with such respected figures in the industry, whose dedication to the craft was evident in every session.

Another aspect that left a lasting impression was the diversity and camaraderie among the participants. Connecting with fellow sommeliers from across the Asia-Pacific region was incredibly enriching—we exchanged experiences, shared insights, and built friendships that I believe will last well beyond the bootcamp itself. 

I am immensely grateful to the New Zealand Sommeliers Association, ASI, SAS, and all the sponsors who made this opportunity possible. Never in my career did I imagine I would find myself in a room surrounded by some of the best sommeliers and educators in the world, learning, sharing, and having fun together. 

The atmosphere was both inspiring and motivating, and it reinforced my passion for the profession.

What session/s did you find the most insightful/valuable to you on a personal level?

The session that resonated with me most at this stage of my career was ‘How to Build an Effective Wine List’ with Yuki Hirose MS. As I am currently focused on the beverage program for Toast & Oak, this session was particularly relevant and invaluable. Learning directly from a Master Sommelier about structuring a wine list, managing price points and implementing effective selling techniques provided me with actionable insights that I can immediately apply to enhance both the guest experience and the business’s profitability.

The discussion around balancing value, diversity, and profitability in a wine list was eye-opening. It helped me understand how to better curate selections that appeal to a wide range of guests while also supporting the restaurant’s financial goals. 

Additionally, every blind tasting session was exceptional. Each tutor brought a unique perspective, shaped by their association backgrounds—whether MW, CMS, or ASI. This diversity exposed us to a variety of tasting methodologies and frameworks, which was incredibly beneficial. I learned new techniques for dissecting wines and evaluating them systematically, many of which I plan to incorporate into my own blind tasting practice. 

These sessions not only improved my technical skills but also broadened my approach to tasting, making me a more versatile and effective sommelier.

How will you apply the ASI Malaysia Sommelier Bootcamp experience to advance your own career?

The bootcamp has given me a tremendous boost of motivation and inspiration to continue studying and honing my craft. Being surrounded by people who have reached the pinnacle of the profession was truly energizing, and their passion is something I will carry with me throughout my career. 

I plan to incorporate the service advice and techniques I learned from Soren Polonius and Marc Almert into my daily work, ensuring that every guest interaction is elevated and memorable. The insights from the wine list session will directly inform how I develop and refine the beverage program at Toast & Oak, helping me create a more dynamic and guest-focused selection. Moreover, I will utilize the study tips and tasting strategies shared during the bootcamp to better prepare for future exams and competitions. 

The experience has not only expanded my technical knowledge but also strengthened my network within the sommelier community, providing ongoing support and inspiration as I continue to grow in my career.