Maria Boumpa is a Sommelier, with extensive experience spanning the UK, Greece, and Denmark. With a solid background in the hospitality industry, Maria is driven by a passion for delivering exceptional service and achieving goals. Currently serving as the Wine Director at the esteemed 2-Michelin-starred Da Terra Restaurant in London and the 1-Michelin-starred Mare by Rafael Cagali in Brighton Hove. Her journey at Da Terra began in 2020 as the Head Sommelier, where she swiftly rose to her current position, demonstrating her expertise in curating wine selections and leading the restaurant's beverage program. Prior to her tenure at Da Terra, Maria held various roles in renowned establishments, including The Beaumont Hotel in London and Grand Forest Metsovo and Mykonos No5 Suites & Villas in Greece. Her international experience also includes a stint as Sommelier at Restaurant Kokkeriet in Copenhagen, Denmark. Maria's commitment to excellence is evident in her academic achievements. She holds the WSET Diploma in Wines, has achieved the Advanced Sommelier designation from the Court of Master Sommeliers with top honors, while preparing for the Master Sommelier Exam. Her educational journey also includes certifications from Cornell University in Food and Beverage Management. In 2025, Maria was crowned the UK Sommelier of the Year by IWSC, ranked #2 Sommelier in the UK by the Top 100 Sommeliers UK, and ranked #8 in the Harpers Top 50 Sommeliers in the UK and will be representing the UK at the ASI World's Best Sommelier Competition in Lisbon, in 2026. In early 2026, won the Sommelier's Sommelier Award by Decanter.