How did your career with Kempinski start?
Initially I joined Kempinski’s – to the back then newly opened – Atelier Wine Boutique & Tasting Bar as Manager. Having worked on the supplier’s side, I was extremely excited to start developing the wine list and concept from scratch. Today, the Atelier Wine Boutique is one of the most sought-after spots for wine enthusiasts, not only in Vilnius, but Lithuania.
Through hard work, passion and inspiration, shortly a year after joining the Kempinski team, I was promoted to Head Sommelier at Grand Hotel Kempinski Vilnius, taking care of all wine and beverage lists for all our outlets, but also for creating a memorable and enjoyable journey for our guests.
What does beautiful performance mean to you?
Being proficient in all aspects of what you do in order to create unforgettable experiences for those who surround you. Beautiful performance requires constant learning and improvement. Being part of a team that shares a mutual strive for perfection, outstanding performance and guest care. Kempinski gives you freedom to express yourself and leverage your strengths, which at the end of the day is what allows us to create an unforgettable guest experience.
What is your favorite Kempinski moment?
My favourite Kempinski moment happened last year; a guest visited us over lunch and asked to have a full tasting menu of our dishes served at lunch, accompanied with a full wine pairing. Naturally, it was a pleasure for us to prepare this for him. We did such a great job, that he came back the following day, which happened to be a Saturday. Since we did not have a lunch menu during the weekend, we got creative and put together a tasting menu with the corresponding wine pairing from our Bar menu. The guest was extremely happy. With a little bit of creativity and attention to detail we were able to create a great guest experience for him and that is one of my favourite things about my job.