Jaime Smith | Sommelier-in-Residence

Jaime Smith, a synesthetic sommelier, delivers a savant-like capacity to absorb and astutely apply an expansive knowledge of all things wine related. He was appointed as the very first Director of Wine at the MGM Grand and in 1998 helped open the Bellagio as the sommelier of Le Cirque and Osteria del Circo, where he remained for two years. During this time, he also explored his interests in teaching as a Distance Professor for Experimental Oenology classes through the University of California at Davis. In 2000, he accepted the position of head sommelier at Charlie Palmer’s Aureole at Mandalay Bay. During his five year tenure, he was instrumental in helping create the world’s first digital wine list - the restaurant’s solution to managing the 4000-plus labels and five vast cellars.

More recently, he has held the position of Director of Communication & Education Development for Southern Wine and Spirits. His awards and certifications include “Best Sommelier in America” (Aureole); 2001 & 2002 by Food and Wine Magazine, “Best Wine List in America” (Aureole); 2002 by the National Restaurant Association and the Conferee du Sabre, professional Champagne Sabering class & certification, Mumms Champagne.