Hello, lovely readers! Ashley here, also known as The Waterlady. As I continue my journey to become a certified water sommelier through The Fine Waters program, I wanted to give you a sneak peek into what a typical day looks like in the world of water sommeliers. It's a lot more than just sipping fancy waters all day (though I won't lie, that part is pretty fun too!).
The World of Water, One Sip at a Time
Being a water sommelier is an exciting blend of education, connections, and passion. Every week brings new experiences, new flavors, and of course, new brands looking to make their mark in the water world.
Morning Routine: Tasting & Exploring
The day usually starts with reviewing the samples that have been sent by various water brands. These brands are hoping to get their products into the hands of someone like me who can appreciate the finer details of what makes a water exceptional. This is where the fun begins! I often spend my mornings sipping different waters and evaluating their unique qualities—mineral content, taste, mouthfeel, and even the shape of the bottle. I love to create videos of these tastings, sharing my honest impressions and educating my audience on the subtleties of water.
Some of the brands I work with are well-known, like Vichy Catalan or San Benedetto, while others are just emerging. It's my job to not only assess their water but also see where it fits into the broader landscape of water brands in America. Which brands have the potential to resonate with consumers here? What makes each one stand out? These are the questions I’m constantly asking myself as I sip and savor.
Afternoons: Building Connections
As a water sommelier, connecting with the brands I work with is just as important as the tastings. On any given afternoon, I’m speaking with at least one or two brands about how we can work together. I might be discussing new marketing strategies, potential collaborations, or ways to build recognition for their brand in the U.S. market. It's a lot of back-and-forth, brainstorming, and fine-tuning—but it’s all worth it when we start seeing a brand gain traction and grow its fanbase.
Every conversation I have is about building relationships—not just with the brands but with the businesses and consumers who will eventually enjoy the products. I spend a lot of time figuring out how to position each brand uniquely so it stands out in the marketplace. This could mean pitching a water to a restaurant that values sustainability, or recommending a specific water to a boutique hotel known for curating high-end experiences.
Evenings: Hosting Water Tastings
Once the workday is winding down, the real fun begins: hosting water tastings! These events are one of my favorite parts of the job because they allow me to engage with people in a hands-on way. Not only do I get to teach people about the waters we offer, but it’s also an opportunity to showcase some of the incredible brands in our portfolio. I love watching people's faces light up when they taste a water that’s different from anything they’ve ever had before.
At these tastings, we talk about everything from the importance of mineral content to the unique sources of each water. We’ll dive into the history of the brands, what makes each one special, and why it’s worth investing in high-quality bottled water. Plus, it’s just plain fun to sip on water and chat about its nuances. Yes, water can be exciting!
Wrapping It All Up
So, that’s a glimpse into my typical week as a water sommelier. From tasting new waters and making videos, to connecting with brands and hosting tastings, there’s never a dull moment. It’s a job that blends education, connection, and, of course, plenty of hydration! And at the end of the day, it’s all about spreading the message that water isn’t just water—it’s a journey, a culture, and a story in every bottle.
As always, thanks for reading and learning with me. Until next time, keep hydrating and stay curious about the waters you drink!
–The Waterlady (aka Ashley Epperson)
Founder of Salacious Drinks
Certified Water Sommelier