Watch Somm: Into the Bottle

Somm: Into the Bottle is a 2015 documentary film that explores the world of wine through the eyes of sommeliers, winemakers, and other experts. The film is a follow-up to the critically acclaimed 2013 documentary, Somm, which followed four sommeliers as they prepared for the prestigious Master Sommelier Exam. This time around, the focus is less on the exam and more on the wine itself. Director Jason Wise takes a deep dive into the history, production, and culture of wine, examining everything from the grape varieties and terroirs to the glassware and serving temperature.

The film is structured around a series of themed chapters, each one exploring a different aspect of the wine world. The sommeliers and experts interviewed in the film are each given a chance to share their thoughts and insights on the topic at hand. For example, in the chapter on oak barrels, we hear from winemakers in France and California about the different types of oak and the impact they have on the flavor of the wine.

Throughout the film, we see stunning footage of vineyards, wineries, and wine tastings, all shot with a keen eye for detail and beauty. The filmmakers clearly have a passion for wine, and that enthusiasm is contagious. You don't have to be a wine aficionado to appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into making a great bottle of wine.

One of the strengths of Somm: Into the Bottle is the diverse range of voices represented. We hear from sommeliers working in high-end restaurants, as well as from winemakers who are hands-on with every aspect of the winemaking process. There are also scientists who study the chemical makeup of wine, and historians who recount the role of wine in ancient cultures.

One particularly interesting section of the film explores the impact of politics on the wine industry. We learn about the effect of Prohibition on American winemakers, and the struggles faced by winemakers in countries like Argentina and South Africa during times of political turmoil. These stories add a human dimension to the film, and remind us that wine is more than just a beverage - it's a reflection of the society and culture in which it's made.

Another highlight of the film is the explanation of the tasting process used by sommeliers. The sommeliers interviewed in the film describe in detail how they analyze the color, aroma, and taste of a wine, and what they're looking for in each category. It's fascinating to see how a trained palate can pick up on subtle differences in flavor and aroma that might be missed by the average wine drinker.

Overall, Somm: Into the Bottle is a well-crafted and informative documentary that will appeal to anyone with an interest in wine. The film is never dry or academic - it's made with a sense of joy and wonder that is infectious. Whether you're a seasoned wine drinker or a complete novice, you're sure to come away from the film with a greater appreciation for the artistry and complexity of winemaking.

Somm: Into the Bottle is a 2015 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3.