If you’re into wine, you might already know the name Isa Bal. If you’re really into wine, you might even get a bit starstruck when you hear it. So, imagine our delight when we got to sit down with him at Trivet, the two-Michelin-starred restaurant he co-founded in London Bridge.
FULL VIDEO HERE
Isa is a Master Sommelier, which is basically the wine world’s equivalent of a Jedi Knight—there are fewer than 300 in the entire world. So when he talks, we listen. Closely.
The Fine Wine Files
We kicked things off by asking Isa what “fine wine” really means to him. His answer? It’s not just about price or prestige—it’s about heritage. For him, fine wine is something with a track record of quality going back a century or more. These are bottles that have stood the test of time, not just trends.
And yes, he actually brought up the 1947 Massandra Muscat from Crimea like it was no big deal. Imagine casually dropping a 75-year-old bottle into conversation.
Grapes Getting the Love They Deserve
We couldn’t resist asking what he’s drinking right now, and Isa gave a nod to some of Italy’s lesser-hyped heroes: Greco and Fiano. These whites from southern Italy are, in his words, “just brilliant.” And when a Master Sommelier says that, you pay attention.
He also hinted at a rare and underappreciated Italian wine: Sfursat, from Valtellina, made from dried Nebbiolo grapes.
Portugal: The Slow-Burn Star
Portugal also got a mention. Isa’s been watching Portuguese wine evolve over the past 30 years, and he reckons it’s finally hitting its stride. Not just Port, but still wines—reds and whites—that offer incredible value and serious quality. Portugal, we see you.
Making Wine Accessible
And perhaps our favourite moment? When Isa told us he loves what Tiny Wine is doing—making wine more accessible without dumbing it down. We swear we didn’t pay him to say that (though he did joke about sending an invoice).
Big thanks to Isa Bal for taking the time to chat with us. If you ever find yourself near London Bridge, book yourself a table at Trivet. You’ll drink brilliantly, eat beautifully—and maybe even spot a bottle of Massandra on the list.
Stay curious, keep sipping.