Andrea Martinisi

Career Andrea Martinisi’s work has been built around exact service: reading a table early, staying ahead of a guest’s needs, and treating each pour as part of the wider exchange. As Head Sommelier at Hotel Terravina in the New Forest, Southampton, UK, from 2016 to 2018, he developed a reputation for disciplined service and close cellar knowledge. The through line in his practice is sake, thoughtful service, and genuine connection, which gives his approach both precision and ease. As he puts it, “My personal goal is to arrive in Portugal well-prepared and to give it my best shot!” - Head Sommelier — Normanby Fine Wines & Spirits, Auckland - Sommelier — The Fat Duck Restaurant, Bray, UK - Head Sommelier — Hotel Terravina, New Forest, Southampton, UK - Beverage Director — The Grove and Baduzzi Restaurants, Auckland Education: Court of Master Sommeliers; WSET Wine & Spirit Educational Trust

Coming Up

Court of Master Sommeliers (2016) and WSET Wine & Spirit Educational Trust (2016) gave Andrea Martinisi the technical base that underpins his style: polished, detail-driven, and attentive to how taste and service work together. Those credentials sit at the start of a path that moved through sommelier at The Fat Duck Restaurant in Bray, UK, Head Sommelier at Hotel Terravina in New Forest, Southampton, UK, and Beverage Director at The Grove and Baduzzi Restaurants in Auckland. Each role widened the scope of responsibility, while keeping the same standard in view: make hospitality feel seamless without lowering the bar. Today, Andrea is Head Sommelier of Normanby Fine Wines & Spirits. The role keeps the emphasis on curation and guidance, with the focus on structuring choice and steadying the guest experience. It suits a career that has relied on quiet authority rather than display.

Where They Are Now

Sake, thoughtful service, and genuine connection remain the center of his approach. In Andrea Martinisi’s hands, hospitality is measured and personal, built on attention rather than performance. That discipline gives the work its shape, and it is the kind of service that can pass unnoticed in the moment while still being remembered.

FAQ What is Andrea Martinisi's current role? As of 2026, Andrea Martinisi is Head Sommelier. Where did Andrea Martinisi train or study? Andrea Martinisi trained at Court of Master Sommeliers and WSET Wine & Spirit Educational Trust. What recognition has Andrea Martinisi received? New Zealand Sommelier of the Year (2021).