The Balmoral, a Rocco Forte Hotel, has appointed Matthew O’Donnell as Head Sommelier at it’s fine dining restaurant Number One.
Originally from Airdrie, O’Donnell brings over a decade of hospitality and wine expertise to his new role. His career has spanned some of the grandest hotels across England, Ireland and Scotland, including Ashford Castle in Ireland, Grantley Hall in Yorkshire and The Strathearn at Gleneagles Hotel in Perthshire, as well as London’s fine wine members’ club, 67 Pall Mall.
O’Donnell will lead the wine programme at Number One, curating a wine list in partnership with the restaurant’s Chef de Cuisine Mathew Sherry and Manager Emma Hemy. A particular enthusiast for Austrian wine, he counts the region among his personal favourites. Beyond his professional achievements, he has represented Scotland playing chess and continues to rank in the top 100 players in the country.
Matthew O’Donnell said, “I’m delighted to join the team here at Number One, and I’m so looking forward to bringing my passion for sustainable wines to one of the finest dining destinations in the UK. I’m particularly looking forward to sharing my interest in the wines of Austria, including the vineyards of Wachau, Südsteiermark and Vienna, with both the team and diners.”
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