bottelier

A bottelier, also known as a cellarer or butler, is a person responsible for the management and supervision of a wine cellar or a collection of alcoholic beverages within a household, establishment, or winery. The role involves various duties related to the acquisition, storage, care, and serving of wine and other spirits.

Historically, the bottelier was a significant figure in large households and estates, overseeing not only the storage but also the ordering and presentation of wines for the master's table. Their expertise was crucial in ensuring wines were kept in optimal conditions, aged appropriately, and served at the correct temperature and with suitable accompaniments. This often included managing inventory, preventing spoilage, and maintaining a detailed record of stock.

In modern contexts, the term might be used more broadly. In high-end restaurants or hotels, a sommelier often fulfills many of the traditional bottelier's duties, with a focus on the wine list, customer service, and food and wine pairing. Within a winery, a cellar master or cellar hand might oversee the practical aspects of wine storage and maturation, though the term "bottelier" is less commonly used in this specific context. The fundamental responsibility remains the proper stewardship of alcoholic beverages.