Grove of Narberth’s Cathryn Bell steps from cellar to center stage as 2026 AA Sommelier of the Year | News
Luxury boutique hotel and 5 AA red stars, Grove of Narberthis pleased to announce that its Head Sommelier, Cathryn Bell, has been named AA Sommelier of the Year 2026 at the AA Restaurant Rosette Awards, one of the most respected awards in the UK hospitality sector. This brand new award was announced last night at the 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 Chef Douglas Balish and the kitchen team to create thoughtful seasonal combinations that enrich the dishes on the hotel’s menus, and has developed a wine program that reflects the hotel’s philosophy – rooted in place and guided by craft. Her focus on storytelling ensures that wine is an integral part of the guest journey. Cathryn’s leadership and attention to detail have taken the dining offering in the hotel’s 4 AA Rosette restaurant to the next level. The Ferneryenhancing its reputation for excellence in both food and drink.
Originally from Ammanford, Cathryn returned to Wales after 16 years to join Grove of Narberth, gaining extensive experience at 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 after obtaining a degree in Swahili. Her love for people and her dedication to creating meaningful, joyful experiences ultimately led her to hospitality, and this approach continues to inform her work today.
Cathryn Bell, head sommelier at Grove of Narberth, said:
Receiving the AA Sommelier of the Year Award is a huge honor and I am extremely proud that we can bring it to Wales. I am fortunate to be part of a team that strives to create extraordinary experiences at Grove of Narberth, and to be fully supported to embody that in the wine program. It is a huge privilege to do the work I do: bringing food and wine, wine and people together, and creating moments of joy every day – that is the best I can do!”
Karen de Koning, general manager of Grove of Narberthsaid: “Cathryn’s recognition as AA Sommelier of the Year reflects not only her extraordinary talent, but also the standard of excellence we strive for at 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.”
This recognition builds on a strong period of success for Grove of Narberth. In 2025, the hotel retained its prestigious MICHELIN Key, further cementing its reputation for exceptional quality and warmth. The hotel was also recognized in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, with an outstanding score of 96.93, and Chef Douglas Balish was named Hotel Chef of the Year at Hotel Cateys 2025.
Set in the enchanting woodlands of Pembrokeshire, Grove of Narberth is celebrated for its warm hospitality, elegant interiors and a food and drink experience shaped by the rhythms and stories of Wales. Cathryn Bell’s award reflects both her individual excellence and the spirit of collaboration that underpins the hotel’s continued success.
