AI Chatbots Offer Wine Recommendations, but Can't Replace Sommelier Experience

Restaurants see guests increasingly turning to AI for wine advice, but experts say human expertise still has value.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 10:33pm

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As AI chatbots like ChatGPT become more prevalent, some restaurant diners are using them to get wine recommendations and advice before or during their meals. While the AI can provide useful suggestions, industry professionals say the human connection and expertise of sommeliers is still irreplaceable when it comes to the wine selection process.

Why it matters

The rise of AI in the wine industry raises questions about the future role of sommeliers and whether technology could diminish the experiential aspect of choosing wine at restaurants. However, experts believe AI can be a useful tool to build confidence, but should not replace the valuable guidance and hospitality provided by skilled wine professionals.

The details

Diners like Spencer Herbst have started using AI chatbots to get wine recommendations, taking photos of wine lists and asking the AI for suggestions that pair well with their food and offer good value. Restaurants have also used the AI to prepare for common customer questions. While the AI can provide sound, logical wine choices, industry professionals say it lacks the nuance and personal touch that sommeliers bring. Claudia Rosellini, wine director at Bavel in Los Angeles, sees AI as an enhancement to the wine selection process, as it indicates curious customers. And Chase Sinzer of New York restaurants Claud and Penny believes AI is just a new challenge that skilled sommeliers can overcome through hospitality and expertise.

  • ChatGPT launched in 2023.
  • In the next 3-5 years, the wealth generated by AI is expected to rejuvenate the wine industry after a recent period of stagnation.

The players

Spencer Herbst

An employee at PricewaterhouseCoopers in New York who uses AI chatbots to get wine recommendations when dining out.

Claudia Rosellini

The wine director at Bavel, a Middle Eastern restaurant in Los Angeles with a deep and varied wine list.

Chase Sinzer

The owner of New York City restaurants Claud and Penny, as well as the wine bar Stars.

Dan Petroski

The proprietor of Massican Wines in California's Napa Valley, who is known for being tech-savvy in the wine industry.

ChatGPT

An artificial intelligence chatbot launched in 2023 that is being used by some restaurant diners to get wine recommendations.

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What they’re saying

“It helps me have a better conversation with the somm. If you're starting with an idea, they can help you explore. That's probably better than just starting from scratch.”

— Spencer Herbst

“People making the conscious effort with AI, it means they're curious, and that makes me happy.”

— Claudia Rosellini, Wine Director, Bavel

“For us, the only thing that matters is to deal with whatever people bring to the table and make it a hospitality situation. It's just another challenge and an opportunity.”

— Chase Sinzer, Owner, Claud and Penny, Stars

“It may not be the perfect answer, but it can be a confidence builder.”

— Dan Petroski, Proprietor, Massican Wines

What’s next

As AI technology continues to advance, restaurants and wine professionals will need to adapt and find ways to incorporate it while still maintaining the human touch and expertise that is valued by customers.

The takeaway

While AI chatbots can provide a useful starting point for wine selection, they cannot replace the knowledge, experience, and personalized service that skilled sommeliers offer. The wine industry must find a balance between embracing new technologies and preserving the hospitality and expertise that are central to the wine-drinking experience.