Salvatore Castano, 31 years old, Sicilian from Giardini di Naxos (Taormina) is the best Sommelier in Europe. He conquered the title by winning the top step of the podium in the Competition for the Best Sommelier of Europe & Africa, the most important continental competition, organized every three years by ASI - Association de la Sommellerie Internationale, which has just ended in Cyprus.
In the final, Castano faced fierce competition from candidates from Denmark and Austria, Nina Jensen and Suvad Zlatic, respectively second and third classified, immediately obtaining a great result in his first participation in an international competition. A result of study, in-depth analysis, practice and great passion.
«Salvatore – commented Giuseppe Vaccarini, president of ASPI – always measured in his attitudes, never over the top, he convinced everyone from the first tests. His preparation has gradually been perfected in recent months to bring him to this great result. My most sincere congratulations go to Salvatore! He has been able to hold on throughout the pandemic, he has never lost heart and here he has demonstrated his great desire to do well. An example for all our ASPI sommeliers who are the only ones who can access these prestigious international competitions».
Salvatore Castano's career was dazzling: after graduating from the Hotel Institute, he started in London as a Commis Sommelier in one of the restaurants of the three-starred Alain Ducasse, The Dorchester. He is currently Head Sommelier & On Trade Advisor at Friarwood, a renowned boutique in the British capital.
