Toast to Mastery: Sommeliers' Choice Awards, the Epitome of Excellence

The Sommeliers Choice Awards stands as a hallmark of excellence in the world of wine competitions, revered for its commitment to recognizing exceptional quality and mastery in the industry. Renowned for its rigorous judging process and the esteemed panel of experts, this competition has garnered a sterling reputation over the years.

At the heart of its reputation lies the unparalleled expertise of its judges. Comprising leading sommeliers, wine directors, and industry professionals, the panel brings together an assembly of highly skilled palates, each renowned for their discerning tastes and extensive knowledge. This collective expertise ensures a meticulous evaluation, making winning accolades from the Sommeliers Choice Awards a distinguished honor.

Furthermore, the competition's stringent judging criteria, encompassing quality, value, and packaging, emphasizes the significance of holistic excellence in the world of wines. This meticulous approach not only acknowledges exceptional taste but also considers marketability and overall presentation, adding a layer of practicality to its esteemed reputation.

Here are some of the judges who will participate in the 2024 Sommeliers Choice Awards.

WAYNE BELDING MS, Master Sommelier and Partner at Preferably, Colorado.

PETER GRANOFF MS, Master Sommelier, Wine Educator, Speaker, Entrepreneur, San Francisco.

BRIAN KOZIOL MS, Master Sommelier at Maverick Beverage Company, Chicago.

RACHEL LOWE, Director of Beverage for Levy Restaurants.

ALEXANDER POWELL MS, Master Sommelier and Senior Wine Manager at Grill 23 & Bar, Boston.

LISA SELMAN CSS, Alchemy Room Beverage Director.

KYUNGMOON KIM MS, Master Sommelier.

VINCENT MORROW MS, Master Sommelier and Wine Director at PRESS Napa Valley, San Francisco.

BRANDON TEBBE, MS, Master Sommelier.

SERAFIN ALVARADO MS?Master Sommelier and Director of Wine Education at Southern Wine & Spirits.

JEREMY SHANKER MS, Corporate Wine Director at Mina Group and Master Sommelier.

SCOTT BARBER, President at Green Pin Wines.

LARISSA C DUBOSE, National Director Beverages- Dining Division at Paradies Lagardère and Wine Enthusiast Magazine Future 40, Vino Volo National Buyer.

BRANDON BIERLEIN, Director of Food & Beverage, Talbott Hotel Chicago.

GUILLERMO BRAVO, Beverage Director at Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, Chicago.

ALLISON CURATOLO, Wine Director RPM Italian Las Vegas.

ANIKA ELLISON, Wine Manager, Swift & Sons Steakhouse, Chicago.

KRISTIN FRANCESCO, Sommelier at Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants, Chicago.

JAMIE HARRISON RUBIN, Procurement & Placements at Culinary Conservatory.

COLIN HOFER, General Manager of Restaurants, Four Seasons Chicago.

JENNIFER KNOTT, Director of Beverage for Levy at Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

JOSH KING, Director of Food and Beverage, Virgin Hotels, Chicago.

JOHN MARAFFA, Corporate Beverage Manager, Morton's The Steakhouse | Strip House Steakhouse & Cocktail Lounge | Morton's Grille.

JON MCDANIEL, Founder & CEO of Ottantadu.

TIFFANY TOBEY, Owner and Sommelier, Tiffany's Toast, Dallas, Texas.

View the full panel of the 2024 Sommeliers Choice Awards judges here.

This is a unique opportunity?to present your wines to America's?top sommeliers. The wine scores are benchmarked for on-premise channels?by top sommeliers, master sommeliers, wine directors and restaurant wine buyers.

The credibility of the Sommeliers Choice Awards extends beyond its judging process. It is known for its commitment to promoting winning brands, providing a platform for global recognition and increased market visibility. Brands that receive accolades at this esteemed competition often experience an upsurge in consumer trust and industry credibility, amplifying their presence in a competitive market.

Moreover, the legacy of past winners and their success stories further solidifies the prestige of the Sommeliers Choice Awards, acting as a beacon of excellence that inspires aspiring winemakers and industry professionals to aim for greatness.

In essence, the Sommeliers Choice Awards' reputation as a premier wine competition is built upon a foundation of expertise, meticulous judgment, and the celebration of wines that epitomize excellence in taste, value, and presentation.

If you are a sommelier, restaurant wine buyer, or wine director who is looking to add more wines in 2024 or change the wine list, do check out the winners listed on Sommeliers Choice Awards. These brands have been carefully curated by America's top sommeliers. Each wine offers a great story and each glass of that wine is meant to be enjoyed in your bars and restaurants.