In the world of wine, there is only one title that represents the absolute pinnacle of the profession – Master Sommelier. Since 1969, only 299 people worldwide have earned this title. Suwi Zlatić is now among them, becoming the first Master Sommelier from the former Yugoslavia.
C.M: How did your love of wine begin?
Looking back today, I realise that my story did not begin with wine, but with people. Hospitality taught me that wine is not just a drink, but an emotion and an experience that guests remember. Curiosity led me towards vineyards, winemakers and endless learning. The more I learned, the more I realised how much more there was to discover. That desire to become better every day has remained my greatest motivation.
C.M: How would you describe your journey towards becoming a Master Sommelier?
For more than twelve years, almost every day was devoted to studying, blind tastings, travelling and working on myself. This is not an exam you prepare for over a few months – it is a way of life. Discipline means studying even when you are tired and when you least feel like doing it. Those are precisely the moments that separate the good from the truly exceptional.
C.M: Did you ever consider giving up?
There were failures and disappointments, but I never thought about giving up. Every setback was an opportunity to analyse my mistakes and come back even better prepared. Success is not the opposite of failure, but the result of how you respond to it.
C.M: What does the Master Sommelier title mean to you today?
The title opens the doors to the world’s finest restaurants and wine institutions, but for me, above all, it represents responsibility. I want to share my knowledge and help many more outstanding sommeliers emerge from our region.
C.M: Is it possible to become a Master Sommelier without the help of others?
No. You are alone when you take the exam, but you never get there alone. I had the privilege of learning from colleagues from all over the world. It also requires iron discipline – there is no skipping training or studying. My greatest support came from my fiancée, Jasmina, who believed in me even when things were at their most difficult.
C.M: Is knowledge alone enough?
Knowledge is the foundation, but mental strength often determines the outcome. Meditation, controlled breathing, sport and visualisation helped me remain calm under the greatest pressure. The Master Sommelier exam is not only a test of knowledge, but also a test of character.
C.M: How difficult is it to become a Master Sommelier?
Since 1969, only 299 people have earned this title. It is estimated that hundreds of thousands of candidates have attempted the exam. It is often said that there are more astronauts on Earth today than Master Sommeliers. However, statistics were never what motivated me – it was the desire to be better today than I was yesterday.
C.M: How do you view Montenegro’s wine scene?
Although I am still getting to know it, what I have tasted and the people I have met have left an excellent impression. I believe Montenegro should remain true to its identity while at the same time embracing the challenges brought by climate change. Tradition is not about preserving the ashes, but keeping the fire alive.
C.M: What would you say to young colleagues?
Believe in yourselves and do not allow others to define your limits. Not everyone has to become a Master Sommelier, but everyone can become the best version of themselves. If I managed to achieve this dream, I am certain that many more people from our region will do the same. My greatest success will be the day I am no longer the only Master Sommelier from our region.
Behind every great bottle stands a person. Behind every
great sommelier stand years of sacrifice.
