One of 269 Master Sommeliers in the world, Michael Meagher is the Principal of Sommelier On-Demand Hospitality Services. Michael carries a Bachelor’s degree from Harvard University, an Associate’s degree from the Culinary Institute of America, a Master’s degree from the University of Adelaide in South Australia, a Diploma from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust in London accompanied by over 20 years in the hospitality industry. Michael has an excellent breadth of knowledge and experience that he shares with each person he has the pleasure of meeting. 

Michael sought to challenge himself by participating in a number of competitions when the demands and hustle of managing some of Boston’s best wine programs did not satisfy his curiosity and aims for growth. He placed third in the country at TOP|SOMM two years in a row, was the winner at the National Finals for Best Young Sommelier, and placed second at the Best Young Sommelier in the World. The competition circuit gave Michael additional exposure and global credibility, ultimately landing him on Master Sommelier Fred Dame’s handpicked luxury sales team at Treasury Wine Estates.

Michael enjoyed tenures as a corporate educator and regional sales manager at TWE, regional manager and corporate educator at Jackson Family Wines, and a stint in distribution at boutique distributor Vineyard Road.  In total, Michael has worked the entire route to market some of the greatest wines from around the world. 

On the academic and trade front, Michael has been published in a number of sources, including the academic Journal of Culinary Science and Technology, the Guild of Sommeliers, and trade publication The Somm Journal, while also having his pursuit of the Master Sommelier Diploma featured in the book Dark Horse: Achieving Success Through the Pursuit of Fulfillment.  In addition to writing, speaking, and consulting roles, he serves as Chairman Emeritus of the Board of Directors for the Boston Sommelier Society. 

Michael has enjoyed wine travel experiences within a number of classic regions in France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Germany, Greece, Australia, and New Zealand, in addition to the United States and Canada, giving him a truly global perspective to pair with the business acumen and practical experience that few in the industry can match. Given his lifelong attention to detail and pursuit of excellence, his company, Sommelier On-Demand, and everyone on the team has standards that few can attempt to reach.  His client list ranges from Fortune 500 companies and international organizations to private individuals, all united by their desire to experience the best of what the world of wine has to offer. 

But don’t be misled; Michael’s downtime is just as critical to his success as his work ethic.  He remains deeply rooted in Groton, Massachusetts by his wife, Carolyn, and two sons, William and Trent.  When time permits, he enjoys running, soccer, lacrosse, being outdoors, woodworking, and a cold beer, though not necessarily in that order.

Michael makes a valuable addition to the judging panel at the 3rd Annual Sommeliers Choice Awards set to take place in May 2021 in San Francisco, USA. With an aim to provide on-premise buyers and sommeliers a valuable benchmark for understanding which wines would make a captivating addition to a wine list. Submission is now open for the 2021 Sommeliers Choice Awards. Registration ends April 20, 2021.