RICHLAND -- Eric Zegzula, sommelier and wine manager at Anthony's at Columbia Point in Richland, won the 2010 Sommelier of the Year award from the Washington Wine Restaurant Awards, a program of the Washington Wine Commission.

Zegzula, who has worked for Anthony's for more than 20 years, was recognized Friday at an awards ceremony in Seattle.

In 2006, Zegzula passed the first level of the International Court of Sommelier Exam and is pursuing certification. To prepare for the certified sommelier exam, Zegzula completed 24 weeks of study under Master Sommelier Angelo Tavernaro.

Zegzula is renowned in Eastern Washington and in the Washington wine industry. His job as sommelier and wine manager has him on the floor of the restaurant five nights a week. His program includes basic training for new employees, initial wine training and educational tastings for staff with weekly focus wines.