Sommeliers Association of India announces inaugural sommelier competition

The Sommeliers Association of India (SAI) announced the first edition of the “2025 SAI Best Sommelier of India” competition. This event, designed to elevate the sommelier profession in India, will take place on January 23, 2025, at The LaLit Lawn, Mumbai, stated a SAI release.

The competition aims to provide an unparalleled platform for Indian sommeliers and wine professionals to demonstrate their technical expertise, creativity, and service acumen. The event will unfold in a dynamic format, comprising quarterfinals, semi-finals, and an exciting grand finale. Participants will be judged by an elite panel of esteemed wine professionals.

The top three winners will be awarded an all-expenses-paid trip to Singapore to attend the esteemed ASI Education Boot camp. Furthermore, the winner will have the honour of representing India for the very first time at the 2025 ASI Contest Best Sommelier of Asia & Pacific Competition in Malaysia and advancing to compete at the 2026 ASI Contest Best Sommelier of the World Competition in Portugal ensuring a significant boost to their careers and recognition within the global wine industry.

Amrita Singh, co-founder and president of the Sommeliers Association of India said, “The 2025 SAI Best Sommelier of India competition is a historic milestone for India’s wine community. By being associated with the prestigious Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (ASI), this event provides an unparalleled platform for Indian sommeliers to gain global recognition. It is a celebration of talent, skill, and perseverance, offering participants the opportunity to shine on an international stage and represent India among the best in the world.”

Mattia Antonio Cianca, co-founder and vice president of the Sommeliers Association of India shared, “This competition is more than a showcase of expertise; it’s a transformative journey that connects India to the global sommellerie community through ASI. By adhering to international standards and bringing together exceptional talent, we are opening doors to global opportunities. It is a proud moment to watch Indian sommeliers step into the international arena, equipped to compete with the very best.”

Join us in celebrating the brilliance of Indian sommeliers as they embark on this extraordinary journey of mastery, passion, and global recognition. The 2025 SAI Best Sommelier of India competition promises to set a new benchmark for excellence in the wine industry. Let’s raise a toast to this remarkable milestone!