A great sommelier is more than a connoisseur of vintages and labels—he is a curator of moments, a guide through the intricate world of wine, and an architect of harmony between food and beverage. Jumeirah Bali is pleased to welcome Suyanto, whose refined expertise and passion for pairing wines with exquisite cuisine will bring a new dimension to the dining experience.

A Passion for Pairing

With a career spanning 25 years in some of the world’s most prestigious luxury hotels, Suyanto has developed a deep appreciation for how a well-curated beverage selection can transform a meal. At Jumeirah Bali, where authenticity and craftsmanship are celebrated, he sees an exciting opportunity to further his passion and create meaningful connections between wine, cuisine, and culture.

For Suyanto, wine is more than a beverage—it is an extension of the dining experience. His approach to pairing goes beyond theory; instead, he immerses himself in the flavors of each dish, carefully tasting and evaluating how different wines interact with its nuances. "Whenever a new dish is introduced, I dedicate time to tasting it alongside a variety of wines, noting how each pairing enhances or contrasts the dish’s flavors," he explains. "There is no substitute for tasting, no shortcut to understanding the perfect match."

This meticulous process ensures that every guest at Jumeirah Bali experiences wine as a seamless complement to their meal, enhancing flavors and creating an immersive dining journey.

The Art and Science of Pairing

Suyanto believes that successful pairings begin with balance—light wines for delicate dishes, richer wines for bolder flavors. A crisp white wine elevates the freshness of seafood, while a velvety red enriches the depth of flame-grilled meats. Yet, true artistry lies in the nuances—recognizing that exceptions to the rules often lead to the most remarkable discoveries.

His philosophy revolves around achieving synergy, where wine and food enhance each other in a way that feels effortless. It is this intuitive understanding that allows him to craft pairings that delight and surprise, ensuring that each dining experience is not just a meal but an exploration of taste.

Bringing the Guest Experience to New Heights

At Jumeirah Bali’s distinguished dining venues; Mantra Wine & Dine, Segaran Dining Terrace, and AKASA Restaurant & Bar, Suyanto is poised to introduce guests to a thoughtfully curated selection of wines, each chosen to complement the culinary artistry of the chefs. Whether recommending a classic vintage or an unexpected pairing that redefines expectations, he approaches each interaction with warmth, insight, and a passion for discovery.

Beyond wine, Suyanto will incorporate local Balinese influences into Jumeirah Bali’s beverage program. Bali’s natural abundance of spices, tropical fruits, and artisan-crafted spirits provides a rich palette for innovation. "We are weaving these elements into our cocktail creations, celebrating the island’s heritage while presenting flavors in a refined and modern way," he shares. This fusion of tradition and creativity ensures that each beverage tells a story—one rooted in authenticity yet presented with a contemporary touch.

For those eager to deepen their appreciation of wine, Suyanto encourages a more interactive approach to dining. "Rather than serving a single wine throughout the meal, why not explore different pairings and experience how flavors evolve?" he suggests. "Taste, compare, and discuss—turning a meal into an exploration of flavors is what makes dining truly memorable."

A Commitment to Excellence

With a wealth of experience and an unwavering dedication to his craft, Suyanto is not just a sommelier but an ambassador of taste, guiding guests through an exceptional culinary journey at Jumeirah Bali. His presence ensures that every sip and every bite exist in perfect harmony, elevating the art of dining to its highest expression.

As Jumeirah Bali continues to set new benchmarks in refined gastronomy, Suyanto’s expertise will play a pivotal role in shaping experiences that are both memorable and meaningful—lingering on the palate and in the hearts of guests long after the last glass is poured.