Drink up! Austinite-by-way-of-Houston Mark Sayre has been named Texas’ Best Sommelier for 2007 by The Wine & Food Foundation of Texas along with The Texas Sommelier Association. A recent hire of the Four Seasons Hotel in Austin, Sayre received his award last night at the Grand Tasting sponsored by Whole Foods Market at the third annual Texas Sommelier Conference.

The winner of the statewide competition (which was limited to 25 candidates) was determined through a rigorous three-part examination - tasting, service and theory. Finalists were evaluated by a panel of nationally recognized Master Sommeliers.

So what does Sayre get? The coveted title of ‘Texas’ Best Sommelier’ and an award package that includes a scholarship of $2000 from three major wine certifying bodies.

Austin also kicked ass last year with Whole Foods' Devon Broglie snagging the top prize and two other Austinites ranking second and third.

Photo courtesy The Wine and Food Foundation of Texas