PRESS RELEASES
For over 10 years, Xavier Thuizat, Head Sommelier of Hôtel de Crillon, has been elevating the Palace’s reputation both in France and internationally, upholding the timeless tradition of French art de vivre.
Within the renowned restaurants of the property, Xavier Thuizat expertly guides guests in selecting the perfect wines to accompany their dining. At La Cave, he offers exclusive experiences which allow guests to discover the treasures of the wine collection at the prestigious Palace on Place de la Concorde.
March 21, 2025
THE DISTINCT WINE IDENTITY OF HÔTEL DE CRILLON’S RESTAURANTS
At L’Écrin, the Palace’s One Michelin-starred gastronomic restaurant, guests can embark on an extraordinary culinary journey where refined dishes meet exquisite pairings.
Xavier Thuizat expertly guides guests in selecting their wine and sake selection, before working closely with Chef Boris Campanella and Pastry Chef Matthieu Carlin to create the perfect pairing for a 5 or 7 course menu.
At L’Écrin, guests can also explore alcoholic-free pairings which have been inspired by travels from around the world. From Kyoto’s UJI Ujien Gotas green tea to Panama’s Grand Cru Geisha coffee and the mystical elixirs of L’Alchimiste, these pairings promise a journey of refined and unparalleled flavours for the diners,
Meanwhile, at Nonos par Paul Pairet, guests indulging in Chef Paul Pairet’s cuisine can also experience Xavier Thuizat’s expertise, ensuring an exceptional dining experience.
DISCOVER THE TREASURES OF HÔTEL DE CRILLON'S WINE COLLECTION
Exclusive Encounters
Twice a month, Xavier Thuizat invites guests on an exclusive journey through the world of fine wines, champagnes, and exceptional coffees, drawn from the prestigious cellar he meticulously curates.
These intimate events welcome up to 12 guests into La Cave a private dining room and exclusive wine sanctuary. Over the course of 90 minutes, the Head Sommelier presents five exceptional tastings from renowned vineyards, each perfectly paired with a culinary creation by Executive Chef Boris Campanella.
In 2025, Xavier Thuizat will introduce Exclusive Encounters a series dedicated to legendary wine regions such as Puligny Montrachet, Pommard, and Pauillac . Guests will also embark on a historical journey, exploring themed tastings inspired by the wines of the Court of Versailles, the presidents of the Fifth Republic, and the popes of Rome key figures in the evolution of viticulture.
A SENSORY JOURNEY THROUGH GASTRONOMY AND THE ARTS
Throughout 2025, Xavier Thuizat and Boris Campanella, Chef of the Michelin-starred restaurant L’Écrin, will host a series of Major Arts dinners—an extraordinary fusion of gastronomy and the arts.
Each dinner is designed to immerse guests in a different art form, creating a fully sensory experience. Theatre, painting, photography, music, and poetry will come to life through five exclusive dinners, each crafted in collaboration with renowned experts in their respective fields.
Special guests include actor Enzo M, painter Eric François, photographer Kyriakos Kaziras, and violinist Frédérique Laroque (first violinist of the Paris Opera), with a fifth distinguished guest to be revealed. Each evening will feature a five-course menu, seamlessly blending gastronomy and artistry for an unforgettable culinary and cultural journey.
AN EXCLUSIVE CLUB, A UNIQUE IMMERSION INTO THE WORLD OF FINE WINE
Launching in September 2025, Hôtel de Crillon will unveil an exclusive private club for fine wine enthusiasts.
Limited to just 100 members, this prestigious club will provide unparalleled access to the following:
• Personalised guidance and expertise from Xavier Thuizat
• Exclusive events and bespoke tasting experiences
• Private sales of rare and exceptional wines
• Insider access to the world’s most prestigious wine estates
A unique opportunity for connoisseurs to immerse themselves in the art of extraordinary wines.
XAVIER THUIZAT, HEAD SOMMELIER OF HÔTEL DE CRILLON, A ROSEWOOD HOTEL, ROSEWOOD EUROPE SOMMELIER
Xavier Thuizat has honed his expertise at some of the world’s most renowned gastronomic institutions, including Relais Bernard Loiseau, Le Meurice, Pierre Gagnaire, and Le Peninsula.
In 2023, he was awarded two prestigious accolades for his remarkable career, Best Sommelier of France and Meilleur Ouvrier de France (Best Craftsman of France).
In 2024, he was awarded The Sommellerie Award at the Michelin Guide ceremony, and was selected to curate Air France’s future wine, champagne and spirits list across all travel classes and airport lounges in Paris, further cementing his expertise and influence within the world of wine.
Xavier Thuizat is renowned for his expertise and exceptional skill, playing a key role in shaping Hôtel de Crillon’s prestigious wine cellar—one of the richest in France, with over 2,500 labels.
A globally recognised sake expert, he became the third Frenchman to be inducted into the exclusive circle of Saké Samuraïs, an honour bestowed by His Excellency, the Ambassador of Japan in France.
Proud of his Meilleur Ouvrier de France title, Xavier is deeply committed to mentoring his team, passing on his knowledge and values to inspire the next generation of sommeliers.
Born in the legendary wine region of Burgundy, he remains deeply connected to his roots, showcasing its heritage through his work. A passionate advocate of authentic and generous sommelier, he expresses heartfelt gratitude to those who have supported him throughout his career, recognising the invaluable lessons gained from his encounters in vineyards around the world.
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