SAI Announces the Historic 2025 Best Sommelier of India Competition
The Sommeliers Association of India (SAI) is thrilled to unveil a groundbreaking event in India’s wine industry—the 2025 SAI Best Sommelier of India Competition, scheduled to take place in Mumbai from 21st to 23rd January 2025. This historic competition, recognized by the prestigious Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (ASI), is the first of its kind in the country, offering India’s top wine professionals a global platform to showcase their talent.
A Milestone in India’s Wine Landscape
This event represents a monumental leap for India’s sommelier community, as the winner will not only gain national recognition but will also:
- Attend the ASI Education Bootcamp in Singapore with an all-expenses-paid trip.
- Represent India at the 2025 ASI Best Sommelier of Asia & Pacific Competition in Malaysia, marking the first time India participates in this prestigious contest.
- Compete at the 2026 ASI Best Sommelier of the World Contest in Portugal, putting Indian talent on the global stage.
Amrita Singh, Co-Founder and President of SAI, shared her enthusiasm, saying,
“The 2025 SAI Best Sommelier of India Competition is a transformative moment for our wine and beverage community. It offers Indian sommeliers a chance to grow, connect, and compete with the best globally. We are honored to create this historic platform and showcase India’s talent to the world.”
Mattia Antonio Cianca, Co-Founder & Vice President of SAI, added,
“This competition bridges India with the international sommelier community. By adhering to ASI standards and highlighting Indian talent, we’re empowering sommeliers to excel on the world stage. The journey from Mumbai to Malaysia and Portugal is a testament to India’s rising potential.”
Judging Panel and Global Attention
The competition will feature a distinguished panel of judges, including members of the ASI Contest Committee, Masters of Wine, Master Sommeliers, and leading sommeliers from around the world. With over 65 ASI member countries viewing the event, this competition promises to set a new benchmark for wine education, expertise, and service in India.
Eligibility Criteria
Professional sommeliers meeting the following criteria are invited to participate:
- Active SAI membership with a ‘Sommelier’ status.
- At least one year of experience in a customer-facing wine service role (on-premise or off-premise).
- Minimum age of 21 years.
- Relevant qualifications (e.g., WSET Level 2, CMS Introductory, or equivalent industry experience).
- Commitment to representing India at the 2025 ASI Best Sommelier of Asia & Pacific Competition in Malaysia.
Detailed eligibility requirements are available on the SAI official website.
How to Register
Registration is now open! Eligible sommeliers must submit their online registration forms by 8:00 PM IST, 22nd December 2024. Participation is free for current SAI members. Visit the SAI website to access the registration form and additional information.
A Toast to the Future of Indian Sommeliers
The Sommeliers Association of India calls upon the nation’s finest wine professionals to seize this extraordinary opportunity to elevate their careers and represent India on the international stage.
Full eligibility details and conditions of entry are available here.
