The Head Sommelier at boutique hotel and 5 AA red star Grove of Narberth has been named AA Sommelier of the Year 2026 at the AA Restaurant Rosette Awards.
Cathryn Bell was named as the winner of the new award at an annual ceremony held at the RAK Ceramics Design Hub in London.
Since joining Grove of Narberth, Cathryn has been instrumental in shaping the hotel’s wine experience. She works closely with Executive Chef Douglas Balish and the kitchen team to create seasonal pairings that enhance dishes across the hotel’s menus.
Originally from Ammanford, Cathryn returned to Wales to join Grove of Narberth after 16 years, bringing extensive experience from some of Ireland’s most acclaimed hotels and restaurants. Her career has included roles at Ashford Castle, the Michelin-starred Chapter One with chef Ross Lewis, and the two Michelin-starred Aimsir with chef Jordan Bailey.
Before discovering her passion for wine, Cathryn worked in international development in East Africa, having earned a degree in Swahili.
Cathryn said:
“Receiving the AA Sommelier of the Year award is a huge honour, and I'm immensely proud that we can bring it home to Wales. I'm very lucky to be part of a team that strives to create extraordinary experiences at Grove of Narberth, and that I'm fully supported to embody that in the wine programme. It's a huge privilege to do the job I do, bringing together food and wine, wine and people, and creating moments of joy every day – it's the best thing I can do.”
Karen de Koning, General Manager Grove of Narberth, said:
“Cathryn’s recognition as AA Sommelier of the Year reflects not only her extraordinary talent but also the standard of excellence we strive for across Grove of Narberth. Her creativity and leadership help shape a dining experience that sets the hotel apart, reinforcing our reputation as one of Wales’ most distinctive and celebrated dining destinations.”
In 2025, the hotel retained its prestigious MICHELIN Key. The hotel was also recognised in the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards, achieving an outstanding score of 96.93 and its Executive Chef Douglas Balish, was named Hotel Chef of the Year at the 2025 Hotel Cateys.
