Vintage 1940s arts and crafts 2 handled hand made oak wine sommelier tasting cabinet this original item (not reproduction) would have been used by a sommelier to bring wine to a guests table to choose there wine the drawer would have kept a selection of cork screws this one is included 41 cm wide 23 cm depth 25 cm height amazing condition very collectible and rare great present for a wine connesure or in a restaurant/pub wine not included 😀some age related marks
The history of the wine sommelier is marked by the evolution of the term and the role of the sommelier itself: 
 
Middle Ages
The term "sommelier" originated in the Middle Ages and referred to someone who managed the storage, procurement, and service of wine. The word may come from the Old French words sommerier, somier, or bête de somme, which means "beast of burden". The sommelier was the herdsman of the beasts of burden that carried wine and other provisions for the court. 
 
16th century
The word "sommelier" has been used in English since the 16th century. 
 
Early 20th century
The term began to be used to describe a restaurant worker who manages the cellar and serves wine. 
 
Court of Master Sommeliers
The Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS) has a history that dates back to 1363 with the Worshipful Company of Vintners, a guild that helped with wine import, regulation, and sales. 
 
Master Sommelier exam
The Master Sommelier exam is held once a year and requires years of training and experience to pass. The exam has three parts: taste, practical service, and theory. 
 
The role of the cupbearer, who was responsible for carrying wine and other provisions, has a long history that can be traced back to the Ancient World. In Greek myth, Ganymede was abducted by the gods to serve as cupbearer to Zeus.