In Others’ Words
We’ve been so fortunate to have worked with so many outstanding producers, restaurants, and clients over the past two+ decades. Here is a sampling of what we’ve received over the past couple of years. Thank you, all.
“Le Sommelier is a wine agency that specializes in fine, quality-driven wines from around the globe. Bernard and his team deliver wonderfully personalized service and are on top of the latest wine trends while still listing more traditional regions and wines in their portfolio. Le Sommelier is the perfect go to agency for the savvy consumer and the seasoned professional.”
“Bernard and the team at Le Sommelier, for a long time now, have been very supportive and generous in their working relationships with the top sommelier and wine buyers of Ontario. Not only is the Le Sommelier Wine portfolio composed with great taste but it also focuses on producers that uphold the principles of sustainability, organics or biodynamics within their production methods. Naturally a unique energy is exchanged between the environment and the health of the consumer. I wish Bernard and his team the best as they continue to bring wines with natural integrity to the people of Ontario.”
“I’ve been working with Le Sommelier & Bernard for several years and he never fails to deliver. In the hospitality industry we have so many last minute surprises; there is nothing more important for a sommelière than knowing their wine rep has her back covered. Bernard is kind, hospitality oriented and, most importantly, has the right palate to choose exceptional wines from Canada and abroad. Aside of Le Sommelier’s efficient and reliable service what sets them apart is their small & intimate tastings which allows sommeliers, meet the wine maker and hear the stories behind the wines. I highly recommend Le Sommelier services to anyone who shares the love for wine.”
“At Bar Isabel we have been working with Le Sommelier since the day we opened. Part of the reason for that is that Bernard brings a rare expertise and depth of knowledge about the excellent line of products they have in their portfolio. Handpicked wines from top producers, but more importantly the palates, brains and chutzpah to back them up. I know if Bernard is bringing me something to taste it will be worth tasting, and worth opening for my clientele. Whether you are looking for a classic wine or something more obscure the team at Le Sommelier knows how to source it and knows their clients well. They certainly know what I like.”
“Working with Le Sommelier is a pleasure. They offer a solid portfolio of hand-picked, quality-focused producers and an array of astute selections that offer consistent value. Ordering has always been simple and convenient, and both Steve and Bernard have always been accessible for any questions and communication. They make a point of developing sincere professional relationships with their clients and go out of their way to provide superior service. It’s wonderful to deal with people who are genuinely passionate about their products and what they do.”
“I have been working with Le Sommelier for many years now. The name of the company is so apt. Through the selections that are on offer, I feel as though I can relax and let myself be guided by the passion and palate of a professional sommelier. The catalogues offers such an intriguing variety of excellence.”
“CRUSH has been dealing with Le Sommelier for over a decade. Bernard and team offer a selection of unique, quality wines from here in Canada, as well as California, Italy and around the world. Bernard’s personalized service has allowed me to choose a variety of these wines for CRUSH, from premium selections to excellent value options to offer to our guests. Whatever the price point, all of the wines that Le Sommelier carries are distinctive and well-crafted.”
“Le Sommelier has always offered a unique collection of wines from around the world. The overall quality of the wine selection available, exhibits the care and thought Bernard takes, in crafting Le Sommelier’s portfolio. I personally have enjoyed adding wines from Le Sommelier’s Italian collection to the list at The Shore Club. Le Sommelier has always accommodated my ordering needs. I am proud to carry Le Sommelier’s wines on my list.”
“It is without question the team at Le Sommelier has been a pleasure to work with. Bernard works tirelessly to source a list of superior quality wines that always outperform their class. I have had nothing but exceptional service and a wonderful working relationship with Le Sommelier, and I look forward to continuing to do business with them well into the future.”
“Le Sommelier has dependably offered balanced, varietally correct wines that have a real sense of place. They continually offer unique and rare finds. My list is far more interesting and dynamic because of the fabulous finds from Le Sommelier.”
“One of my most trusted wine agents is Le Sommelier. Bernard and his team not only carry some of the most exciting wines from the old and new world, but their dedication to customer service and knowledge of the industry is apparent and very much appreciated.”
“I’ve been working with Bernard and Le Sommelier ever since they entered the local market. Bernard is very service-oriented, often working on requests and private orders well after office hours, and Le Sommelier’s wine portfolio is diverse, fun and full of excellent choices. We’ve done a number of great wine events together, too. Always fun.”
“Having worked with Le Sommelier since what was almost their day one, I would have no hesitation in wholeheartedly recommending them as an agency. As well as being a genuinely lovely fellow to deal with, Bernard Stramwasser, has over the years, built a portfolio of considerable depth and richness. The Le Sommelier book is testament to both his integrity and his intimate understanding of what makes for good wine, from the premium end of the spectrum right through to the more accessible entry level bottlings.”
“Bernard has been our ‘oracle’ in trying to navigate the LCBO labyrinth. On multiple occasions over the last few years he has unselfishly spent time explaining (using mono-syllables to help me out) the system and how to get something accomplished - we could not have launched the Exchange without him. In our business dealings Bernard has been a true partner, reasonable and fair and always ultimately concerned about the customers. Finally, although I have only tasted a small portion of his amazing portfolio, I have always been impressed by his finds. When people ask me to recommend a great wine agency, Le Sommelier is always one of my recommendations.”
“I have been in the restaurant for more than twenty years, slowly building an award winning wine cellar. Building an exclusive Italian wine list was not an easy task and having the invaluable expertise of Bernard and Le Sommelier Wine Agents was a plus. The commitment to find small, very important wine producers was very evident from our first conversations. I have had Bernard travel to our restaurant on several occasions to hold wine maker’s dinners and it was always very well received by our clients and guests. I would have no problem recommending a professional such as Bernard and his company to anyone, licensee and/or private clients, seeking out excellent wines for their collection.”
“I have had the pleasure of not only ordering great wines and getting great service from Bernard and his team at Le Sommelier but perhaps more importantly through Bernard I have had a chance to visit and meet some of the winemakers, some I had not heard of until Bernard facilitated the introduction. Many of these visits, in the Piemonte region of Italy, have been the best travel experiences I’ve ever had and I’ve had the opportunity to re-visit several of them over the past few years. This is perhaps the best part of my relationship with the people at Le Sommelier.”
“I consider myself fortunate to have worked closely with Le Sommelier for nearly a decade. Bernard Stramwasser and his team have consistently provided customer service second to none; routinely going above and beyond to ensure my needs as a wine buyer were always met regardless of circumstances. The Le Sommelier portfolio of wines has always mirrored their core values; values that never compromise on quality and are chosen with the upmost integrity. I would recommend this agency to everyone in the hospitality industry and beyond.”
“As a wine writer, I rely on importing agents to keep me informed about their activities and to draw my attention to new products of interest. Bernard Stramwasser of Le Sommelier has been highly professional and very effective in this regard. He is also a pleasure to deal with.”
“I have known Bernard Stramwasser for a number of years. He shows a keen interest in wines and his choices are usually very good. His knowledge of Austrian & German wines is very helpful to me as I do not have great familiarity with these regions. Service is excellent.”
“In our efforts to demonstrate client loyalty and appreciation, Le Sommelier has been a key supplier in delivering our message. Their knowledge of wines has guided our gift giving in an impressive manner that also considers value. In all circumstances, Le Sommelier understands the importance of delivery and timeliness, which allows our company to focus on the message without worry of implementation.”
“I have been a client of Le Sommelier for several years and find they provide everything that I look for in a wine agency: a broad, high quality product portfolio; a friendly, knowledgeable staff; and great customer service, whether it be scheduling delivery or organizing tastings here at home, or arranging introductions to facilitate visits to producers abroad. I can’t recommend Bernard and this team highly enough.”
“I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere thanks for your help with building the licensee market. Your efforts have resulted in Zalto being in a lot more restaurants where they are then used by more consumers building the brand in Canada. I appreciate the great business partnership we have developed and hope that the future brings us more continued success.”
From our Online Customers
“I really appreciate the notes included. Very good service and wine choices.” 5/5 - Barb
“Awesome selection of wine and amazingly fast and efficient delivery. Thank you!” 5/5 - Jean
“We have been dealing with Le Sommelier for over a year and all orders have been on time and in great condition. We appreciate the great wine selection. We also like your updates when new wines come available. Great Agency.” 5/5 - Sue
“This was a gift, therefore I didn't get to sample it myself, however the Customer Service from the folks at Le Sommelier was FIVE STAR! Thank you to everyone who helped to get this delivered safely, in record time and most importantly, in time for a very special occasion.” 5/5 - Mr. & Mrs. R.
“The wine is delicious. I’d already tasted it at a family gathering, and was not disappointed. I had friendly service from Le Sommelier. Delivery was prompt and the man who brought my case of wine in was super- took care with the wine, and was polite and pleasant.” 5/5 - Vivian
“Quick and efficient. Zalto stemware is hard to find, and I was delighted that you have it available.” 5/5 - Peter
“Bought mixed case as a xmas present for a pair of good friends so cannot give a report on the contents but will supply feedback when they have been imbibed . Delivery was very prompt. Will definitely think of service for future gifts. Many thanks for being a part of the JazzFM 91 family!” 5/5 - Verna
“Spectacular, food friendly wines.” 5/5 - Joanne
“Le Sommelier was very responsive to my questions and everything went smoothly and quickly with the delivery itself.” 5/5 - Roman
“The entire process from placing the order to receiving the wine was excellent!” 5/5 - Drew
“Le Sommelier knocked it out of the park again. We love the surprise and variety of the mixed cases, and the delivery is also prompt.” 5/5 - Jim
“I have bought a ton of wine for Le Sommelier. Always fantastic wines at fair prices delivered quickly. One of my favourite agencies to deal with.” 5/5 - Jonathan
“Great products, great service, called to ensure delivery time would work. Website is easy to navigate. Love the mixed cases!!” 5/5 - Kristen
“Love the selection and ability to order non LCBO offered product. Fast service and great delivery!” 5/5 - Chris
“This is my second Code38, this time I upgraded to the P-Type Pro X. Best corkscrew on the market. Le Sommelier is excellent to deal with, would order from them again.” 5/5 - Alon
“A quick delivery of my purchase which, as a mixed case, is an excellent way to sample wines from this producer.” 5/5 - Ron
“Great service, good value, fantastic wine: a very satisfying retail experience, indeed.” 5/5 - Malcolm
“My knowledge of wine is very minimal so I was relying on some good advice in order to impress my guests. The wine selection that was chosen for us fit perfectly for our event. The delivery of goods was on time as promised, service was friendly And professional, a great overall consumer experience.” 5/5 - David
“Great variety of wines, very happy with both the quality of the wine and the delivery process. Was nice to have a real-time update of the delivery vehicle’s location.” 5/5 - Nadya
“Love, love, love this [Spring Whites] case - everything you want right now.” 5/5 - Joanne
“We enjoy the surprise “finds” in the mixed cases that Le Sommelier put together. Their service is excellent.” 5/5 - Jim
“Very timely delivery, and well-coordinated despite not having an apartment buzzer.” 5/5 - Roman
“The greatest olive oil in this price range that I have found. Each one is unique, and all are terrific.” 5/5 - Joanne
“Excellent experience ordering the wines! I had asked to delay shipment to my home by at least a month, which was cheerfully accommodated. The wines were securely packaged. I put them into my cellar;I am looking forward to tasting these very soon!” 5/5 - Marshall
“Great company to deal with also good selection of vintage wine.” 5/5 - Sue
“Easy to order, great selection, arrived as expected with a nice surprise of an extra bottle of olive oil! Gift was greatly appreciated. Highly recommend.” 5/5 - Marty
“As usual, a fantastic experience! One of our favourite Cremants and reasonably priced. Delivery time was excellent!” 5/5 - Sharon
“Always a smooth experience ordering from Le Sommelier. And it is fun to receive their curated mixed cases.” 5/5 - Kathryn
“Amazing! We can't get this wine at the LCBO, so Le Sommelier made it easy and affordable. Now we have a whole case of it! It was delivered quite quickly as well.” 5/5 - Samantha
“Best collection of olive oils for the price that I have come across. This one is special - for drizzling and dipping.” 5/5 - Joanne
“Order came quickly. I always enjoy the notes supplied. Le Sommelier is my go to wine agency. Great mixed case choices. I am thoroughly enjoying each bottle - one at a time.” 5/5 - Barb
“Appreciated the quick turnaround on the order. The variety, and quality of the wines is very good. I love the mixed cases that you put together. It's fun to discover wines and varietals that I didn't even know existed. Great value for a whole case of delicious education.” 5/5 - John
“My experience with Le Sommelier was top notch from start to finish. Absolutely loved the Olivier Coste Illegal . Also the Blanville is a great every day wine for the price. This is the place to go for excellent service from the knowledgeable and helpful staff all the way to the great delivery. Just a note, I placed a small order and still received top notch service. Looking forward to ordering again from this well run company.” 5/5 - Simon
“Bernard’s curation of his product line is second to none! Fast service! Very enjoyable shopping experience and great reading the details of the producers!” 5/5 - Chris
“We loved this mixed case so much this summer that we bought another this fall. Great service from Le Sommelier.” 5/5 - Paul
“Easy to get the wine I wanted and delivery was quick. Lots of support through the purchasing process. Will definitively order again.” 5/5 - Christopher
“All of the wines curated by Bernard and is team are excellent choices that represent the craftsmanship of the small producers. I have yet to try this particular vintage as I am anticipating a special time to serve it!” 5/5 - Chris
“Had a wonderful interaction with Le Sommelier before Christmas. Bought some Zalto stemware that I had been coveting. They responded immediately, expedited the shipment, and even helped carry it to my car. Bernard had helpful tips on handing and cleaning as well. I look forward to buying more from them in future, including some of their amazing wine!” 5/5 - Arun
“Amazing artisanal limoncello. Price was best I saw in months and delivery was quick ! I highly recommend LeSommelier ! Merci” 5/5 - Richard
“I love Le Sommelier. Wonderful selection and great service. Highly reccomended.” 5/5 - Francesco
“Very nice. Prompt and courteously delivered. The choices are very well made. Thank you for taking so much research and guesswork out of finding decent affordable wines. Great Service.” 5/5 - John
“Great wine with a delivery that was in full, on time and fast. What could be better!” 5/5 - Steve
