Culinary Arts Group has announced the appointment of Veronika Zakharchuk as Head Sommelier, further strengthening the group’s focus on exceptional guest experiences across its flagship concepts — Maison Dali, Bar Dali and Revolver Dubai. With an impressive international résumé, Veronika steps into a key leadership role to define and elevate the group’s wine identity through thoughtful curation and an impeccable wine selection.

Since joining the group in late 2024, Veronika has been instrumental in bringing a renewed perspective on wine — from sourcing rare bottles to launching curated tastings. Her remit includes wine list development, distributor partnerships, team training, pricing strategy and creating beverage programmes that are as emotionally resonant as they are technically sophisticated.

Prior to her current role, Veronika recently served as Assistant Head Sommelier at the one-Michelin-starred Dinner by Heston Blumenthal at Atlantis The Royal. There, she was integral to the venue’s pre-opening and post-launch success, overseeing a 6,000-bottle cellar and a 1,500-label list, while mentoring her team in delivering exceptional, story-led service.

Before relocating to the UAE, she held senior roles in Russia, including the pre-opening of Gvidon and Gorynich by the White Rabbit Family – ranked No. 13 on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2019. There she managed one of the country’s largest Champagne selections, designed bespoke wine lists, led tastings and trained junior sommeliers. Her foundation spans respected institutions including Four Seasons Moscow, Ararat Park Hyatt and Simple Wine, Russia’s leading wine supplier.

A dedicated student of her craft, in the past year, Veronika recently completed the WSET Level 3 course and passed the Certified Sommelier Examination under the Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS).

In her new role, Veronika brings a distinct approach to each concept within the group. At Maison Dali, she champions Old World classics, grower Champagnes and rare bottles showcased in Dali’s cellar section. By collaborating with suppliers and brand ambassadors, she offers a curated selection of 50 wines by the glass — allowing guests to enjoy exceptional labels at accessible prices. At Revolver, her programme is more intuitive, highlighting unique pairings and exclusive imports unavailable elsewhere in Dubai.  Here, she presents a focused selection of 25 wines by the glass, with a mission to make wine an integral part of the storytelling at the table.

Reflecting on her appointment, Veronika shared: “I’m truly excited to lead the wine programmes at Maison Dali, Bar Dali and Revolver — three exceptional venues, each with its own energy and identity. To me, wine isn’t about rules; it is about creating moments of connection, discovery and joy. I believe in thoughtful pours, easy conversation and shaping guest experiences that are effortless and memorable. It is a privilege to work with a team that shares this passion for hospitality — no rules, just great wine and a good time.”