Awarded a Master Sommelier Diploma last week, Tresner joins the elite ranks of the American Chapter of the Court of Master Sommeliers, which now lists just 42 Master Sommeliers in the country and 97 throughout the world.  Tresner recently completed the rigorous Master Sommelier Diploma Exam�considered to be one of the most demanding professional examinations�which is the last of the three steps involved in becoming a Master Sommelier.

One of five sommeliers at Mary Elaine�s, Tresner expressed joy and relief upon hearing the news. �This recognition marks a high point in my career, and I am honored to be considered part of such a distinguished group,� Tresner said.  �The three-day exam covered theory, tasting and service, and included some heady questions on topics such as grape variety and soil conditions in obscure places and proper service methods for decanting wines.� 

Tresner, who had previously passed the Basic Certificate and Advanced Sommelier courses, has worked in the restaurant industry for over 20 years, and studied for this grueling exam since 1990.  Todd Orlich, manager for Mary Elaine�s, adds, �We�re very proud and thrilled for Greg�s success, which certainly reflects the restaurant�s dedication to fine wines. His expertise is critical to our operations, as Mary Elaine�s has recently doubled it�s wine selection, currently valued at $3 million. We now offer more than 44,000 bottles and 1,800 labels with extraordinary selections from France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Australia and the U.S.� The announcement comes on the heels of Mary Elaine�s recent designation as both a AAA Five Diamond and Mobil Five-Star restaurant for the first time.
 

Long celebrated for its award-winning Modern French cuisine and European-style service, Mary Elaine�s is located on the top level of The Phoenician, commanding dramatic city and valley views in an opulent setting.  A recipient of the coveted Mobil Travel Guide Five-Star Award, The Phoenician is owned and operated by Starwood Hotels Resorts Worldwide as part of The Luxury Collection.

Mary Elaine's --- European elegance in decor, table settings, ambiance and service characterizes Mary Elaine's, featuring soft jazz in the lounge and a seasonal menu of Modern French cuisine