Somm

Oenophiles watching filmmaker Jason Wise's Somm may be surprised to learn that the exalted title of “master sommelier”—i.e., top-flight professional wine expert—only dates back to 1969. Rigorous annual examinations are given by an exclusive Court of Master Sommeliers, and Wise here gains access to the proceedings as young American applicants try to rise to this elite status (very few pass, and the overwhelming majority are males). Wine buddies Ian Cauble, Dustin Wilson, DLynn Proctor, and Brian McClintic study history, geography, and German-language idioms, while also working with voluminous numbers of flashcards in efforts to earn the coveted badge—a test that challenges their ability to ID wine right down to a specific vineyard and year, by taste alone. Their cram sessions and self-teaching methods (Cauble, nicknamed “Dad” by his pals for his authority, utilizes fancy computer overlays on wine-territory maps) make for a felicitous window into a rarified world with high-echelon players. Never too technical for general viewers, wine lovers will be the ones who truly appreciate this documentary, which generates considerable suspense over who will pass the grueling exam. DVD extras include audio commentaries, a “making-of” featurette, and deleted scenes. Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (C. Cassady)