Eric Zwiebel, MS, is a renowned figure in the world of wine, currently serving as the Wine Director for The Samling Hotel in Windermere, situated in the picturesque Lake District. Born in Alsace, Eric's journey into the wine industry began early in life as he assisted his parents in their restaurant. This initial exposure ignited his passion for the world of wine.

In his formative years, Eric had the privilege of working as a sommelier in Paris for five years, where he honed his skills and deepened his understanding of fine wines. Eager to expand his knowledge, he made the move to England in 1997, embarking on a quest to explore diverse wine regions and pursue further studies with the prestigious Court of Master Sommeliers.

Eric's dedication and commitment to excellence in the field of wine were underscored in 2001 when he achieved the coveted Master Sommelier qualification. His remarkable journey has been marked by numerous accolades, including being crowned Sommelier of the Year in 2004. Over the years, he has garnered global recognition through various sommelier competitions, earning titles such as Best ASI Sommelier in Europe (2008-2017) and the Wine and Spirit Ambassador Catey in 2021.

With a rich background managing wine cellars at esteemed establishments like Hotel du Vin, Cliveden House, and Summer Lodge, Eric Zwiebel's expertise became a valuable asset when he joined The Samling. The hotel, which boasts one of England's finest wine cellars, welcomed Eric as its Director of Wine, entrusting him with the responsibility to enhance and expand their already notable wine collection.

Eric's vision for The Samling's cellar is ambitious yet refined. He aims to grow the cellar's current inventory of 1,200 wines to an impressive 2,500, ensuring a balanced and diverse selection. His focus on quality, rooted in the terroir, reflects a commitment to offering a comprehensive and thoughtful wine list. Eric's approach involves not only showcasing wines by variety and region but also curating an experience that aligns with the preferences of the hotel's guests.

As a testament to his commitment to excellence, Eric plans to introduce older vintages to the collection and develop more pairing options with the menus. The emphasis is not merely on the size of the wine list but on achieving a harmonious balance that includes choices from smaller areas and producers.

Eric Zwiebel's illustrious career, from his early days in Alsace to becoming the Vice President of the UK Sommeliers Association, showcases his unwavering dedication to the world of wine. His role as the Wine Director at The Samling Hotel signifies a new chapter in his journey, where he continues to elevate the fine dining and wine experience for guests in the stunning Lake District surroundings.