A wine list can send shivers of panic among many a diner.

Choosing the second cheapest bottle on the list is the bane of many, but luckily the Middle East is blessed with heroes who unravel the mysteries of the world of the grape, allowing us mere mortals to treat our taste buds, ridding us of those painful Blue Nun memories.

Sponsored by MMI, Sommelier of the Year is the award that celebrates those who ensure even the ignorant among us have a superb drop to accompany our meal.

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An independent panel of judges selected by Hotelier Middle East will judge the nominees, with the winner to be announced at a glamorous awards ceremony on October 14 at Madinat Jumeirah.

The 10 nominees that have reached the long-list all report significant achievements and a dedication to their role, but who is your favourite to win?