Rumours in the Vatican indicate that the Italian Sommelier Association (AIS), Rome, has made Pope Benedict XVI an 'Honorary Sommelier'. It appears that the pontiff received the silver tastevin, the classic symbol of recognition for a sommelier, reports WineNews.it.

The Pope, who at his election defined himself as a "humble servant in the vineyard of the Lord", should be happy with this recognition because he is knowledgeable of the great cultural and symbolic value wine has served throughout Christian history.

It is not known, however, which are the preferred wines of the Pope, but it is certain that after many years in this country, he is surely an admirer of the top Italian labels. There have been many wine experts among popes past. The Roman Pope Paolo III, who reigned from 1534 to 1559, was a wine enthusiast.

Over his 25 year rule he enjoyed numerous wines that were appreciated according to season, time of day, and the type of events that passed at the holy dinner tables. His favourites have been revealed to us thanks to his sommelier, who left detailed lists that described the 53 wines "judged by Pope Paolo III and his bottler Sante Lancerio".

The sommelier followed the pope on all of his voyages, selecting the wines to serve at table only after confirming their quality, as well as checking all bottles that arrived as gifts for the Holy See.

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