Benjamin Nilsson

Wine-nerd, theory-geek, and just absolutely passionate about my job. My wine journey started at home, with Swedish "husmanskost" and what my family liked to pair with it. Then, exploring the shelves at my local store, buying wines, and going to wine and whisky tastings. I started connecting the dots and then getting more knowledge from the theory I learned as a 20-year-old at the Scandinavian Wine Academy (Vinkällan). Being humble, I'm always reading and studying because the world of wine is constantly changing. I will never be fully learned. The best part is that I get to share my passion with my team and guests at Restaurang ÄNG every day.

Living on the west coast of Sweden, I get to follow the new era of Swedish wines, seeing the vines on "Pengakullen" daily at Ästad Vingård, located on the same site as ÄNG. Tasting barrel samples from different vineyards located in Sweden and getting new perspectives on what wine can be. And as a Sommelier at ÄNG, I get to serve and recommend my favorite wines for a tasting menu that is full of exciting cooking techniques, fermentations, and local ingredients. My job is pretty fun!

In 2019, I received the Sommelier Certificate from the Scandinavian Wine Academy (Vinkällan). In 2024, I passed the Introductory and Certified Sommelier exams for the Court of Master Sommelier. I'm currently pursuing and studying for the Advanced Sommelier Exam. In 2025, I placed third in the Junior Swesomm Challenge.