shorts
Feeding AND POURING Bainbridge Island
BY ADAM
FOLEY is quickly becoming a AND ALLI wine lover’s paradise, SCHUCHMAN evidenced by the PHOTOS COURTESY ADAM FOLEY AND thriving wine bars SHAYN BJORNHOLM dotting downtown Winslow and the increasingly acclaimed wineries across the island, Yet, many islanders might not know that we share our home with a world-renowned master sommelier. In his ascent through the world of wine, Shayn Bjornholm earned the coveted title of Master Sommelier on his first attempt—a feat accomplished by fewer than 1 percent of aspirants. Gaining that pinnacle placed him in rarified company. Only 273 other professionals around the world have received the title since it was established in 1969. The achievement is something Bjornholm credits to his background and experiences, especially his time at Seattle’s landmark fine-dining destination, Canlis. “I was inspired daily by Canlis’ pursuit of hospitality and the delicious beverages I got to try regularly,” he said. Bjornholm experienced a transformative moment in 2009, when one of his 16
PNW BAINBRIDGE WINTER 2023
Adam Foley
protégés accomplished the same feat. He explained that witnessing someone else’s journey towards mastery profoundly altered his perception of true expertise and helped him appreciate the essential role of the mentors who facilitate the transfer of knowledge and tradition., Today, as the examination director for the Court of Master Sommeliers, Americas, Bjornholm faces the challenge of ensuring that the examination remains rigorous, relevant and a true reflection of the ever-evolving wine industry. He noted the
importance of aspiring sommeliers finding a balance between stringent standards and their personal guiding principles. Bjornholm said that his journey has not been solely about professional milestones, but also personal evolution. His metrics for growth are both simple and profound. “If I feel full, vibrant, hopeful, expectant and invigorated by the role I play, I am evolving,” he said. His insights on mastery extend beyond the boundaries of wine. “Do I inspire myself and those around me? Are my skills fostering creation?”
