Joel Bastian is the head sommelier of the Kitchin Group and Michelin-starred restaurant The Kitchin in Edinburgh. With a career spanning more than two decades, he has established a reputation in the food and wine world for his in-depth knowledge of wines and his ability to create pairings that enhance the dining experience.
Born in 1981 in Strasbourg, Alsace, Joel Bastian grew up in a wine-growing region and developed a passion for wine at an early age. He began his career in the hospitality industry in France, where he acquired a solid foundation. In 2010, he decided to move to Scotland and started working as a sommelier in Inverness. He then settled in Edinburgh.
At The Kitchin (one Michelin star), Bastian has distinguished himself through his dedication. His philosophy is based on three pillars: accessibility, variety and complementarity. The menu he curates features a wide range of labels and aims to complement the seasonal dishes on the menu. His knowledge in this field is limitless, so that he is able to offer bottles in different price ranges, while at the same time enhancing the tastes of the customers and the characteristics of each region.
His attention to detail and ability to create the perfect pairings have helped cement The Kitchin's reputation as one of the most prestigious destinations in the United Kingdom. Throughout his career, Joel Bastian has demonstrated an unparalleled dedication to the art of sommelier, combining in-depth wine knowledge with an unwavering commitment to service excellence.
