Culinary Arts Group has introduced the appointment of Veronika Zakharchuk as Head Sommelier, additional strengthening the group’s give attention to distinctive visitor experiences throughout its flagship ideas — Maison Dali, Bar Dali and Revolver Dubai. With a formidable worldwide résumé, Veronika steps right into a key management function to outline and elevate the group’s wine id by considerate curation and an impeccable wine choice.
Since becoming a member of the group in late 2024, Veronika has been instrumental in bringing a renewed perspective on wine — from sourcing uncommon bottles to launching curated tastings. Her remit consists of wine listing improvement, distributor partnerships, crew coaching, pricing technique and creating beverage programmes which can be as emotionally resonant as they’re technically subtle.
Previous to her present function, Veronika not too long ago served as Assistant Head Sommelier on the one-Michelin-starred Dinner by Heston Blumenthal at Atlantis The Royal. There, she was integral to the venue’s pre-opening and post-launch success, overseeing a 6,000-bottle cellar and a 1,500-label listing, whereas mentoring her crew in delivering distinctive, story-led service.
Earlier than relocating to the UAE, she held senior roles in Russia, together with the pre-opening of Gvidon and Gorynich by the White Rabbit Household – ranked No. 13 on The World’s 50 Finest Eating places in 2019. There she managed one of many nation’s largest Champagne alternatives, designed bespoke wine lists, led tastings and skilled junior sommeliers. Her basis spans revered establishments together with 4 Seasons Moscow, Ararat Park Hyatt and Easy Wine, Russia’s main wine provider.
A devoted pupil of her craft, previously 12 months, Veronika not too long ago accomplished the WSET Stage 3 course and handed the Licensed Sommelier Examination below the Courtroom of Grasp Sommeliers (CMS).
In her new function, Veronika brings a definite method to every idea throughout the group. At Maison Dali, she champions Outdated World classics, grower Champagnes and uncommon bottles showcased in Dali’s cellar part. By collaborating with suppliers and model ambassadors, she provides a curated number of 50 wines by the glass — permitting visitors to take pleasure in distinctive labels at accessible costs. At Revolver, her programme is extra intuitive, highlighting distinctive pairings and unique imports unavailable elsewhere in Dubai. Right here, she presents a centered number of 25 wines by the glass, with a mission to make wine an integral a part of the storytelling on the desk.
Reflecting on her appointment, Veronika shared: “I’m actually excited to steer the wine programmes at Maison Dali, Bar Dali and Revolver — three distinctive venues, every with its personal vitality and id. To me, wine isn’t about guidelines; it’s about creating moments of connection, discovery and pleasure. I consider in considerate pours, straightforward dialog and shaping visitor experiences which can be easy and memorable. It’s a privilege to work with a crew that shares this ardour for hospitality — no guidelines, simply nice wine and a great time.”
