SOTL School of Sommeliers…
The mission of the alumni from the Global SOTL Movement’s Certified Cigar Master Sommeliers School is to foster a community by providing a platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and professional development.
This network allows them to connect with other cigar enthusiasts, as well as to meet and engage globally through the platform: https://www.sotlglobalmovement.com/sgmsommeliers
Read in the magazine (rotate your device for a better reading experience):
In addition to networking opportunities, SGM –in collaboration with Humo Latino– presents brief profiles of certified sommeliers, available in both Spanish and English, to spread the experience and passion of the graduates, who serve as inspiration for aspiring sommeliers.
Every two months, SGM organizes virtual tastings and exclusive networking events for alumni, featuring a special guest, and will provide the cigar to be tasted, if available in their country.
These meetings include guest speakers such as cigar brand owners, Master Blenders, and experts in various aspects of the tobacco culture. This gives alumni the chance to sample different cigars and learn about their origins, flavors, and pairing options, all from the comfort of their homes.
At the same time, it provides a space for graduates to connect, share experiences, and build relationships in a relaxed and enjoyable environment. Join the Global SOTL Movement to promote the value of the Sommelier Course and let’s continue to elevate, together, the knowledge for the appreciation of cigars!
CCST Lou Piscitelli
Lou Piscitelli is a furniture maker who dedicates his time to creating art from wood and cigar bands, defining himself as a Cigarartist (Cigar Artist). He also runs the Facebook group Cigar Lounge USA, aiming to promote the industry.
At 54 years old, Lou was motivated to become a Certified Cigar Sommelier for the opportunity to gain deeper knowledge about the industry, which he found within the educational program of the Global SOTL Movement.
According to him, this program is a significant step for learning more about the tobacco industry and not just for taking a cigar and a drink for a photo. “If you really want to learn what it takes to get that cigar in your hand, take a look,” he says.
He further explains that after taking the course, participants will truly appreciate and understand the world of premium cigars more than they did before, adding credibility within the industry.
A resident of Melbourne, Florida, a thriving market for the industry where lounges and events are common, Lou states that the knowledge acquired has given him a greater appreciation and understanding of the cigar process from seed to smoke.
This has made him feel confident when having conversations with any enthusiast, providing advice and guidance in the right direction to enjoy their cigars.
CCST Latoya Goodwin
The tobacco industry has always played a significant role in Texas, Latoya Goodwin’s city of residence, where there is a large market and space for exposure, provided that proper planning and research are conducted.
Latoya is a retired Health Compliance Manager, now dedicating her energy to being a Cigar Educator, Travel and Lifestyle Blogger, and VIP Host for the Dallas Smokefest.
According to her, her mind has always been drawn to history in general, and cigars have a history worth studying. This is why she decided to take the Cigar Sommelier course offered by SOTL GM, where she found invaluable and hard-to-reach knowledge. “Having this accreditation adds value to my brand and adds an extra layer of confidence to my clients,” she notes.
In this regard, she emphasizes that the Cigar Sommelier Certification program is an excellent way to improve as a person involved in the industry and provides assurance to the public that the information offered is valid; not based on opinions but on facts.
CCST Whitney Taylor
Whitney Taylor is a 35-year-old full-time mother with aspirations to pursue a career within the premium cigar industry, in addition to running her own Facebook group, Whit’s Sticks Cigar and Pipe Group, for the past four years.
A resident of Pearl Beach, she also serves as the Madame Vice President of the Michigan chapter of the Ash Hole Cigar Club with two years of experience and is working on a project related to women and cigars with the support of the SOTL GM.
Whitney is a lover of premium cigars and learning, which drove her to continue expanding her knowledge about the industry and its processes, seeking not only greater knowledge but also the confidence to converse with other enthusiasts and pave the way for a career in the industry.
According to her, the SOTL Cigar Sommelier Certification program is a comprehensive educational package, covering both the crafting of a cigar and techniques to enhance the tasting experience.
This is how residents of Pearl Beach, who are accustomed to smoking at home or on their boats with the few cigars available in their locality, now turn to her for guidance before venturing on a road trip to the nearest cities, where the main shops and lounges are available to them.
