Juan Gomez first joined The Breakers Palm Beach in 1999, where he quickly advanced through the luxury resort’s restaurant operations while earning his Master Sommelier (MS) certification – the profession’s highest honor – under the mentorship of Virginia Philip MS and the property’s Wine Director. In this role, Gomez continues to carry on the independent hotel’s extraordinary legacy and commitment to the highest level of excellence in wine & spirits.
As Master Sommelier at HMF, The Breakers’ chic restaurant-lounge concept, Gomez demonstrates his incredible acumen and unwavering commitment to quality, while serving the discerning preferences of guests, clients and club members. Instrumental to HMF’s enduring success as one of only three recipients to retain Wine Spectator’s coveted Grand Award since its inception in 1981, he helps curate its prized wine list of more than 2,200 unique selections, and renowned 3000-bottle Wine Wall. More broadly, Gomez and Philip lead procurement for the 55,000-bottle collection of fine wines for the iconic resort’s 10 restaurants, banquet operations and in-room dining, and Juan is also responsible for the ongoing training of beverage staff.
One of Gomez’ most significant achievements remains an industry milestone: the first and only person from Mexico to attain Master Sommelier accreditation.
This devoted wine professional began his career in 2001 after taking an exclusive class offered by The Breakers; Philip immediately recognized his talent as a potential sommelier and hired him to join her team. In 2003, only two years after his introduction to wine, Gomez passed the Advanced Exam on his first attempt, and in 2007, succeeded to do the same in achieving Master Sommelier accreditation – less than 10% of candidates excel in this rigorous, three-part test.
Born from his passion and gratitude for wine education, Gomez travels annually to his native Mexico City to lead classes of current and aspiring sommeliers, to support and inspire the next generation of professionals. These are meaningful opportunities for a Master Sommelier, who never imagined his path nor potential before his employment with The Breakers. Born in Campeche, Mexico, and raised in Mexico City, Gomez had little wine knowledge; tequila and beer were his beverages of choice, just six years prior to securing his MS Diploma. His remarkable accomplishment in such a short time frame was not only unprecedented, but illustrated his determination to become a Master Sommelier and live the “American Dream.”
Gomez holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Florida International University in Miami, Florida.
