Vakkaru Maldives Welcomes Sampath Hewawala as New Head Sommelier

Baa Atoll, Republic of Maldives, September 2023 - Vakkaru Maldives is thrilled to announce the appointment of Sampath Widana Hewawala (Sam) as the resort's new Head  Sommelier. Sam's appointment promises a new level of unparalleled wine experiences at  Vakkaru, where he will oversee the award-winning Vakkaru Reserve wine cellar as well as orchestrate wine programs across the resort's six restaurants and bars. Moreover, Sam is set to elevate the team's expertise through innovative wine educational programs. 

With over a decade of experience as Head Sommelier at some of the most prestigious resorts, including One & Only Reethi Rah and Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara,  Sam is the epitome of excellence in his field. Holding certifications such as WSET Advanced  Level 3, Court of Master Sommelier Level 1, and B & G Château Wine Certification, he brings a wealth of knowledge to the resort's ever-evolving wine culture. 

Speaking about his appointment, Sam said, "I am thrilled to join the team at Vakkaru  Maldives. My mission is to create a top-tier wine philosophy that aligns with Vakkaru’s distinctive brand identity. With Vakkaru Reserve’s expansive wine portfolio, I believe our  collection opens up opportunities for an innovative, immersive, and high-class experience  that will make Vakkaru stand out in this highly competitive industry." 

Besides hosting a regular wine tasting and wine degustation dinner at Vakkaru Reserve,  Sam also introduces a new event, the Sunset Sandbank Wine Tasting, an unforgettable sensory experience in an idyllic setting of the natural sandbank. Just a mere boat ride from the resort, the pure-white sandbank located within Vakkaru's lagoon will transform into a  wine lover's paradise. Here, Sam will curate a selection of fine wines from the Old and New  Worlds, accompanied by an array of delectable cheeses and charcuterie, promising an extraordinary journey of taste and luxury at Vakkaru Maldives.