Two of Vancouver’s established sommeliers join new restaurant teams this month

LEFT: Andrew Forsyth is the new wine director at Le Crocodile by Rob Feenie. Jamie-Lee Fuoco photo. RIGHT: Peter Van de Reep is the new head sommelier at L’Abattoir. JC Madenspacher photo

Vancouver’s wine scene is seeing a shift this month, as two restaurants welcome well-known sommeliers into new roles.

At Le Crocodile by Rob Feenie, Andrew Forsyth has stepped into the role of wine director. Forsyth is the 2025 CAPS Best Sommelier of BC and is well known to many local diners from his time at L’Abattoir, where he helped guide the restaurant’s program to a Platinum Wine Program Excellence Award at the 2024 Vancouver International Wine Festival. A Certified Sommelier with WSET Level 3, Forsyth says he’s eager to shape a list that reflects both tradition and discovery: “My goal is to create a list that celebrates the classics, but also champions unique and emerging producers.”

Chef Rob Feenie says Forsyth’s background is a natural fit: “Andrew’s track record speaks for itself. His technical mastery and passion for hospitality make him an excellent addition to our team.”

Meanwhile in Gastown, L’Abattoir has introduced Peter Van de Reep as its new head sommelier. With more than two decades in Vancouver hospitality, Van de Reep is a familiar presence from his time at Bar Gobo and the former Campagnolo. His accolades include BC Sommelier of the Year in 2020 and the Premier Crew Award at the 2023 Vancouver Magazine Restaurant Awards.

L’Abattoir’s wine program is known for its broad, carefully curated list featuring bottles from BC and abroad. Van de Reep says he’s thrilled to take on the role: “I am very excited about continuing the level of excellence L’Abattoir has championed for years. Come and let me pour you some delicious Champagne!”

Together, these appointments signal plenty of exciting pours ahead for wine lovers across the city.

Vitis Magazine

Vitis is is an indispensable seasonal guide for vintners, sommeliers and weekend imbibers alike that is dedicated to British Columbia’s rapidly evolving wine culture.