India, December 17, 2024 – The Sommeliers Association of India (SAI) is proud to announce an extra-ordinary event in the Indian wine landscape: the 2025 SAI Best Sommelier of India Competition. This first-of-its-kind competition, internationally recognised and affiliated with the Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (ASI), will be held in Mumbai from 21st to 23rd January 2025. This historic event marks a significant step in India’s journey to advance the sommelier profession and provide our best talent with a platform to compete with the best in the world!
The top three winners will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to Singapore to participate in the prestigious ASI Education Bootcamp. In addition, the winner will represent India for the very first time at the 2025 ASI Best Sommelier of Asia & Pacific Competition, taking place in Malaysia, and will go on to compete at the 2026 ASI Best Sommelier of the World Contest in Portugal.
Judged by an elite panel comprising members of the ASI Contest Committee, Masters of Wine, Master Sommeliers, and top sommeliers from across the globe, this competition will attract viewers from over 65 ASI member countries. The event promises to set a new benchmark for excellence in wine expertise, education, and service.
Eligibility Criteria
Entry is open to professional sommeliers who meet the following requirements:
· Must be a current member of the Sommeliers Association of India (SAI) with ‘Sommelier’ status.
· Actively employed in a customer-facing wine service role in on-premise or off-premise settings for at least one year.
· Be at least 21 years old.
· Hold relevant professional qualifications such as WSET Level 2 or CMS Introductory or demonstrate equivalent industry experience.
· Commit to representing India at the 2025 ASI Best Sommelier of Asia & Pacific Contest in Malaysia.
Full eligibility details and conditions of entry are available here.
How to Register
Registration for the competition is now open! Interested candidates must complete the online registration form by 8:00 PM (IST) on 22nd December 2024. Participation is free for all current SAI Sommelier members. Visit the official website to access the registration form and further details.
Speaking about the initiative, Amrita Singh, Co-Founder and President of the Sommeliers Association of India said, “The 2025 SAI Best Sommelier of India Competition is a transformative moment for India’s wine and beverage community. It is an opportunity for Indian sommeliers to learn, grow, connect and compete with the best in the world. We are proud to create this historic platform and welcome international experts and viewers to witness the talent India has to offer.”
Mattia Antonio Cianca, Co- Founder & Vice President of the Sommeliers Association of India said, “This competition represents a vital bridge between India and the global sommelier community. By aligning with ASI standards and bringing together the best talent, we are enabling Indian sommeliers to shine on the international stage. The journey from Mumbai to Malaysia and Portugal is an exciting testament to the incredible potential within this region.”
The Sommeliers Association of India invites the nation’s finest wine professionals to seize this extraordinary opportunity to elevate their careers and represent India on the world stage. Let’s raise a toast to a brighter future for Indian sommeliers!
Click here to register and learn more about the competition.
About Sommeliers Association of India (SAI): https://sommeliersassociationofindia.com/
Founded in 2024, the Sommeliers Association of India (SAI) is a leading non-profit organisation and a proud member of the College of Applicants within the Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (ASI). Our mission is to foster a vibrant, inclusive community of wine and beverage professionals, dedicated to elevating the standards of service, education, and responsible consumption. SAI serves as a premier platform uniting sommeliers, wine, spirits, and hospitality experts with enthusiasts, creating a dynamic network for sharing knowledge and fostering collaboration. We are committed to advancing India’s reputation as a hub for wine appreciation, supporting a culture that celebrates the rich diversity of wines and promotes a deep passion for the beverage industry. In February 2024, SAI achieved a significant milestone by being unanimously voted into ASI’s College of Applicants during the ASI’s 55th anniversary celebrations. This recognition underscores our commitment to excellence and our role in shaping the future of sommelier standards globally. Our key initiatives include organising the prestigious SAI Best Sommelier of India Competition, which serves as a stepping stone for advancing to the ASI Contest Best Sommelier of Asia & Pacific and the ASI Contest Best Sommelier of the World Competition. With a rich history of grape cultivation dating back to 7000 BC, India’s evolving wine industry reflects its ancient heritage. SAI is dedicated to guiding and inspiring this journey, supporting the growth and appreciation of India’s wine tradition. SAI upholds a Code of Ethics that advocates for responsible alcohol consumption and ethical practices within the beverage industry, promoting integrity and respect in all our endeavours.
