Master Sommelier at HMF & The Breakers
Juan Gomez began his career at The Breakers Palm Beach in 1999, where he quickly advanced through the restaurant operations division at the 140-acre, oceanfront resort. Under the mentorship of Virginia Philip, Master Sommelier and the property’s Wine Director, Gomez earned his MS certification - the highest distinction in the industry. Today, Gomez upholds the property's longstanding commitment to excellence in wine and spirits, contributing to its legacy as one of the world's leading independent luxury hotels.
As Master Sommelier at HMF, The Breakers’ sophisticated restaurant and lounge, Gomez demonstrates his expertise and unwavering commitment to quality, thoughtfully catering to the refined tastes of guests, clients and club members. A key contributor to the venue's Wine Spectator Grand Award-winning list - an honor held since the award's inception in 1981 - he helps curate its prized selection of more than 2,200 wines, prominently displayed in the signature 3,000-bottle Wine Wall. Beyond the guest experience, Gomez leads staff education and training and oversees the procurement of the resort's extensive 55,000-bottle wine collection, which serves its 10 restaurants, in-room dining and banquet operations.
A career highlight that continues to inspire: Gomez is the first and only Mexican national to earn the Master Sommerlier title, a groundbreaking milestone in the industry. His path to achievement is nothing short of extraordinary.
Originally from Campeche and raised in Mexico City, Gomez arrived in the U.S. with little knowledge of wine. In 2001, after enrolling in an exclusive wine class at The Breakers, he caught the attention of Virginia Philip, who quickly recruited him to her team. He passed the Advanced Sommelier exam on his first attempt in 2003 and again succeeded on his first try in 2007 to earn the coveted Master Sommelier designation - a remarkable feat achieved in six years.
Gomez holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Florida International University in Miami, Florida, and his passion for education brings him back to Mexico City annually to lead classes for current and aspiring sommeliers to support and inspire the next generation of professionals.
Photo Link: Juan Gomez Headshot (photo credit: LILA PHOTO)