CompetitionWire

Uchi sommelier David Keck took first place today at the Southern regional final of the Guild of Sommelier's Top|Somm competition. Keck bested eight other finalists, including Jack Mason and Steven McDonald of Pappas Bros. Steakhouse, all of whom earned the highest marks on an 18 minute online test to qualify to participate in today's competition. Keck described the event as a "one day sommelier asskicking" that involved a theory exam, blind tasting and a service exam. He will compete against three other regional finalists for the title of Top|Somm next month in San Francisco. [EaterWire]