Emma Denney, Director of Wine at Claridge’s, was crowned UK Sommelier of the Year 2026. Denney emerged victorious after one of the country’s most demanding competitions. Following two days of theory examinations, blind tastings and practical service assessments, Denney eventually…
Last month more than 200 sommeliers, producers, educators and wine professionals gathered in San Miguel de Allende as the Asociación de Sommeliers Mexicanos (ASM) celebrated International Sommelier Day 2026 with a full programme dedicated to learning, competition and the recognition…
Cyprus continues to shine a light on its indigenous wine heritage through International Xynisteri Day, celebrated annually on May 15 and organized by Cyprus Sommelier Association (CΥ SΟMMS). As grape variety celebrations continue to gain momentum globally, International Xynisteri Day…
There is a moment in every emerging sommelier culture when imitation gives way to identity. For Taiwan, that moment is not approaching. It is already underway. Speaking with Howard Hao-Chun Hsia, President of the Taiwan Sommelier Association, one quickly understands…
At the initiative of Shalva Khetsuriani, President of the Georgian Sommelier Association, and with the support of the National Wine Agency of Georgia, International Qvevri Day was established as an annual celebration, held on the last Sunday of April. In…
India has long been described as a sleeping giant in the world of wine. That framing feels increasingly outdated. What is unfolding today is not a market waiting to be awakened, but one that is already on an upward trajectory,…
Job Seuren assumes leadership role At a well-attended members’ meeting in Den Bosch on 2 February 2026, the Dutch Guild of Sommeliers installed a new board, marking a significant generational transition for the association. After 15 years of service, most…
Putu Egi Krisnawan Crowned Best of Indonesia The Indonesia Sommelier Association (ISA) recently held the 2025 Indonesia Best Sommelier (IBS) Competition on October 20 at Fairmont Jakarta. After a series of challenging theoretical, service, and blind tasting assessments, Putu Egi…
