Mattia Antonio Cianca, Vice President of the Sommeliers Association of India (SAI), and Amrita Singh, President of the association, share their vision for elevating India’s beverage industry. Both leaders discuss the inspiration behind the creation of SAI, the unique challenges faced by sommeliers in India, and the association’s commitment to fostering education, awareness, and professionalism in the field. Through their collective expertise and vision, they shed light on how SAI is working to shape the future of beverage culture in India and contribute to the global sommelier community.
Q1. What inspired the creation of the Sommeliers Association of India, and how does it aim to shape the perception of beverages in India?
Mattia Antonio Cianca – Vice President of the Sommeliers Association of India, said:
The Sommeliers Association of India (SAI) was born out of inspiration drawn from Amrita Singh’s experience at the 2023 ASI Contest Best Sommelier of the World in Paris, where India was notably absent among the 65 participating countries. This realization fueled the vision to establish a national platform for Indian sommeliers and to secure its affiliation with the globally renowned Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (ASI). SAI aims to elevate beverage appreciation in India by fostering an inclusive community of wine enthusiasts and professionals, advocating for higher service standards, and promoting a deeper understanding of wines, both domestic and international. With the Indian beverage industry evolving rapidly and consumer tastes becoming increasingly sophisticated, SAI seeks to address the growing need for skilled professionals to guide this transformation. Through competitions, educational programs, and international collaborations, the association is shaping a culture of informed and responsible beverage consumption in India.
Q2. What are some unique challenges and opportunities for sommeliers in India compared to other parts of the world?
Mattia Antonio Cianca – Vice President of the Sommeliers Association of India, said:
Sommeliers in India face unique challenges, including limited career growth pathways and a relatively underdeveloped infrastructure for professional training. However, these challenges present an incredible opportunity to redefine and elevate the profession in the country. SAI is working to overcome these obstacles by introducing specialized training programs, expanding access to internationally recognized certifications, and fostering collaborations with industry leaders to create a support system for sommeliers. By providing Indian professionals with credentials such as the ASI Diploma, SAI is opening global doors for employment and career growth. The association also focuses on hosting national competitions, partnering with hospitality groups, and creating mentorship programs to develop a thriving local ecosystem. These initiatives aim to establish India as a competitive presence in the global sommelier community while nurturing talent to lead and innovate within the industry.
Q3. How is SAI working to elevate the standards of the hospitality and beverage industry in India?
Amrita Singh – President of the Sommeliers Association of India, said:
SAI is committed to raising the bar for India’s hospitality and beverage industry by connecting it with an extensive international network through its affiliation with the Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (ASI). This affiliation not only places India on the global map but also creates opportunities for Indian talent to gain exposure and recognition worldwide. With one of the world’s youngest and largest hospitality workforces, India has significant potential to excel in the beverage industry. SAI is fostering this potential by providing access to global resources, organizing national competitions, and encouraging diverse representation in its programs. Through mentorship initiatives, educational workshops, and partnerships with esteemed global leaders, SAI is ensuring that Indian sommeliers have the tools and platforms to achieve international standards of excellence while celebrating the richness of India’s cultural and culinary heritage.
Q4. Tell us about some key initiatives undertaken by SAI to promote education and awareness among budding sommeliers.
Mattia Antonio Cianca – Vice President of the Sommeliers Association of India, said:
SAI has prioritized education and awareness as foundational elements of its mission. The association collaborates with esteemed organizations such as JancisRobinson.com, GuildSomm, and the Sonal Holland Wine & Spirits Academy to bring world-class training programs to India. Members benefit from discounted access to subscriptions, publications, and exclusive events that enhance their professional development. Additionally, SAI regularly organizes webinars, workshops, and masterclasses led by some of the world’s most accomplished sommeliers and wine experts, ensuring exposure to global standards. The association’s leadership team, which includes highly acclaimed professionals such as Mattia Antonio Cianca and Salvatore Castano, brings unparalleled expertise and inspiration to aspiring sommeliers. Through these initiatives, SAI is building a knowledgeable and empowered community that is ready to make its mark on the international stage.
Q5. What makes the SAI Best Sommelier of India competition a prestigious event, and what can participants look forward to in 2025?
Amrita Singh – President of the Sommeliers Association of India, quoted:
The SAI Best Sommelier of India competition is a significant milestone for the country’s wine and beverage industry, showcasing talent and inspiring excellence. The competition seeks to identify professionals with exceptional technical skills, profound wine knowledge, and a deep passion for their craft. Participants come from diverse sectors, including restaurants, wine bars, and wine merchants, and are judged on tasting abilities, food pairing techniques, and service expertise. The top three winners will, for the first time, travel to Singapore to participate in the ASI Education Bootcamp scheduled for July 2025. Additionally, the winner will have the honor of representing India for the first time at the 2025 ASI Contest for the Best Sommelier of Asia & Pacific, set to take place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in September. Beyond competing, participants gain access to valuable networking, skill enhancement, and career advancement opportunities. By hosting this prestigious event, SAI is not only celebrating talent but also inspiring a new generation of sommeliers to elevate India’s reputation in the global wine industry.
Q6. How is the role of sommeliers evolving beyond beverages, contributing to lifestyle and cultural narratives?
Amrita Singh – President of the Sommeliers Association of India, quoted:
The role of sommeliers in India is undergoing a transformation as they contribute to broader lifestyle and cultural narratives. By integrating India’s rich culinary traditions with international practices, sommeliers are redefining food and beverage pairing techniques and promoting the country’s emerging wine industry. Exposure to global trends enables Indian sommeliers to introduce innovative concepts and experiences to local audiences while highlighting regional wines. As knowledge of wine grows among Indian consumers, sommeliers play an essential role in fostering awareness and appreciation. This evolution enhances not only the perception of sommeliers as key contributors to the dining experience but also strengthens their position as cultural ambassadors who bring global insights to the Indian hospitality industry.
Sommeliers Association of India (SAI)
Founded in 2024, the Sommeliers Association of India (SAI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to elevating the standards of wine and beverage service, education, and responsible consumption. As a member of the Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (ASI), SAI unites sommeliers, hospitality professionals, and enthusiasts, fostering a vibrant community to promote wine appreciation in India.
In February 2024, SAI was officially recognized by ASI during its 55th anniversary celebrations. Our key initiatives include the Best Sommelier of India Competition, serving as a gateway to the Best Sommelier of Asia & Pacific and World Competitions.
SAI is committed to supporting India’s growing wine industry and upholding a Code of Ethics that promotes responsible consumption and ethical practices.
