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Hailing from India, Arunkumar Tamilselvan’s journey into the world of wine is a testament to passion, dedication, and a thirst for knowledge. Raised in a culture that abstained from alcohol, Arunkumar’s introduction to the intricacies of wine came after completing a Bachelor of Science in Hotel Management and immersing himself in the vibrant world of hospitality, eventually working as a bartender. This pivotal moment sparked a transformative journey that led him to further studies and travels in wine and winemaking countries, shaping him into the accomplished wine professional he is today.

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Arunkumar’s credentials speak volumes about his expertise and commitment to the craft. He proudly holds a prestigious WSET Diploma in Wines and Spirits, a globally recognized certification that signifies his deep understanding of wine production, regions, and tasting techniques. Notably, he is the first WSET certified Sake Sommelier in the Maldives, a testament to his versatility and passion for exploring diverse beverage cultures. His expertise extends to spirits as well, with a successful completion of the WSET Level 3 in Spirits, showcasing his comprehensive knowledge across different alcoholic beverages.

With over 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry and more than a decade dedicated specifically to wine as a Professional Sommelier, Arunkumar has honed his skills and gained invaluable insights into crafting exceptional beverage programs. His career has taken him to esteemed resorts and restaurants, including iconic names such as LVMH Cheval Blanc Randheli Maldives, Six Senses Laamu Maldives, Constance Halaveli Maldives, and Raintree Anna Salai Chennai India, where he has left a mark with his expertise and dedication.

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Arunkumar’s passion for sharing his knowledge shines through his role as a WSET Certified Wines and Spirit Educator, a title he earned in 2019. Through this role, he inspires and educates budding wine enthusiasts in the region, fostering a deeper appreciation for wine culture and elevating the overall wine experience for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Currently based at the world-renowned Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas, Arunkumar serves as the Area Wine Guru and WSET Educator for Minor Resorts in the Maldives and Indian Ocean Region. In this role, he oversees award-winning cellar selections, curating a collection that boasts an impressive 183 years of winemaking history and features labels from 23 top wine-producing countries around the world. This curated selection has garnered recognition from esteemed publications such as Wine Spectator and World of Fine Wines, solidifying Arunkumar’s reputation as a tastemaker in the wine industry.

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Among his notable achievements is pioneering projects like the Underwater Aged Dom Perignon, a unique and innovative approach to wine aging that captured the imagination of wine enthusiasts globally. Additionally, his efforts led to the attainment of “WSET Approved Program Provider” status for Kihavah, where he launched WSET programs for team members and guests, certifying over 200 individuals over a span of 4 years, further spreading knowledge and appreciation for wines in the region.

Arunkumar Tamilselvan’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in the world of wine. His journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring wine professionals and enthusiasts alike, showcasing the transformative power of dedication and a genuine love for the craft. Through his expertise, Arunkumar continues to elevate wine culture in the Maldives and beyond, guiding others on journeys filled with passion, personality, and world-class expertise, ultimately taking the wine experience to new heights.

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