Perthshire restauranteur climbs into Sommelier top 20

Credit Alex Baxter

Another accolade for prize-winning establishment

A Perthshire restauranteur has risen 16 places to claim a spot in the top 20 of the UK’s Sommeliers for the first time.

Matilda Tsappis, co-owner and Head Sommelier at the Michelin Star Killiecrankie House, secured 20th spot at the fourth Taylor’s Port UK Top 100 Sommeliers List awards.

In a milestone year for the Perthshire establishment, Matilda’s achievement is another significant accolade.

Watershed

It also marks a watershed for the industry with the top Sommelier in the UK and over half of the top 50 now being female in what has been traditionally seen as a male dominated world.

At Killiecrankie House, which secured its first ever Michelin Star this year,, Matilda draws upon Asian and Scottish influences to produce adventurous pairings to match courses prepared by husband Tom.

To be entered for the award, her skills knowledge and professionalism had to be endorsed by industry peers, fellow sommeliers or diners before her credentials were assessed by an expert panel.

After debuting at 48 back in 2024, Matilda’s growing prominence in the Sommelier world is palpable and she received her prize at The Dorchester in London on June 22nd.

“It's incredibly rewarding to see the progress I've made over the past three years and to be recognised alongside so many talented sommeliers from across the UK,” she said.

“This profession demands constant curiosity and a commitment to learning, not only about wine but also about the wider world of drinks and hospitality.”

“To be ranked in the Top 20 is a real honour, and I'm especially proud to represent Scotland on a national stage while helping showcase the exceptional food, drink and hospitality experiences we have here.”

Credit Alex Baxter