SOMMELIERS ASSOCIATION OF INDIA
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SOMMELIERS ASSOCIATION OF INDIA

2025 SAI Best Sommelier of India Competition

SAI Best Sommelier of India Competition is the nation’s most prestigious event for wine professionals, bringing together the brightest talents in the industry. This multi-stage competition rigorously tests sommeliers on their knowledge, tasting abilities, service skills, and composure under pressure. Over the course of several intense rounds, candidates must showcase their expertise in a variety of disciplines, ensuring that only the most well-rounded and accomplished professionals emerge victorious. The competition culminates in a thrilling live final, where the best of the best compete for the coveted title in front of an esteemed judging panel and a captivated audience.

The Competition Structure

The First Round

The competition kicks off with an intense qualifying stage, where all 14 candidates undergo three challenging assessments

Written Theory Paper

This tests their knowledge across various beverage categories, including wine, spirits, beer, sake, coffee, tea, and water, as well as global wine regions, viticulture, winemaking techniques, and service principles.

Written Blind Tasting

Candidates must identify wines and spirits based on their appearance, aroma, taste, and structure.

Service Scenario

This evaluates their technical skills, professionalism, and ability to handle real-life service challenges.

Based on their performance, the top candidates (typically between 5 and 9) advance to the semi-finals.

The Semi-Finals

At this stage, the competition becomes even more demanding, with participants facing a series of advanced challenges

Written Theory Paper

Featuring deeper and more complex questions on wine and beverage knowledge.

Verbal Blind Tasting

Candidates must articulate their observations and analysis of wines and spirits within a strict time limit.

Service Scenarios

Designed to simulate high-pressure hospitality situations requiring precision, communication, and adaptability.

Food and Wine Pairing

Participants must demonstrate their ability to craft harmonious pairings that enhance both the meal and the wine.

At the conclusion of this stage, the top three competitors are announced live in front of the audience, setting the stage for the dramatic final round.

The Finals

The three finalists compete in a high-pressure environment on a live stage in front of industry professionals, peers, and media. The tasks include

Decanting a Red Wine

Executing the task with precision, elegance, and grace.

Blind Tasting of Wines and Spirits

Demonstrating sensory analysis and quick identification skills.

Tea Knowledge

Reflecting the broad expertise expected of a modern sommelier.

Wine List Correction

Identifying and rectifying errors in a restaurant’s wine list.

Food and Wine Pairing

Showcasing creativity and understanding of flavor harmonization.

Each of these challenges pushes the finalists to their limits, demanding both technical mastery and unshakable composure in front of an expert panel and live audience. The winner earns the prestigious title of SAI Best Sommelier of India, a recognition of their exceptional talent and dedication to the craft.

The Grand Final

The ultimate showdown takes place on stage, with the finalists facing a final set of challenges under intense scrutiny from the judging panel and audience:

Recognition of Famous Wine Estates and Personalities

Featuring deeper and more complex questions on wine and beverage knowledge.

Service of a Magnum of Sparkling Wine

Requiring technical expertise and poise under intense scrutiny.

Congratulations to Jai Singh – 2025 SAI Best Sommelier of India!

Wishing you all the best for the upcoming International Competition!

Meet the Candidates

Here are the 14 talented sommeliers who competed in this year’s event

Pankaj Singh 

The Arts Club 

Dubai

Amber Deshmukh 

Monica Alcobev

Pan India

Rajan Singh 

Fratelli Wines 

Pan India

Jai Singh 

Jumeirah Capri Palace Hotel

Capri - Italy 

Atharva Joshi 

Celebrity Cruises 

Savio Cardoza 

Atlantis The Royal 

Dubai 

Abhishek Batabyal 

Leela Hyderabad 

Hyderabad - India

Karan Patyal

The Northern Club

Auckland - New Zealand

Vaibhav Jawale

ITC Maratha

Mumbai - India

Akul Anand

Six senses Laamu

Laamu Atoll - Maldives

Rohan Dole

Bastian

Mumbai - India

Nigel Vaz

Seabourn Cruise

Shiva Chaurasiya

67 Pall Mall

Singapore

Tarun Acharya

Carine by chef Izu

Dubai

Code of Ethics

We want to advocate for responsible alcohol consumption and ethical practices within the alcohol and beverage industry in India.

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+91 8652299299

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Jancis Robinson MW OBE is a renowned wine critic, writer, and Master of Wine, celebrated for her deep expertise and accessible style. Editor of the “Oxford Companion to Wine” and co-author of “Wine Grapes”, she has shaped modern wine education. Awarded an OBE in 2003, Jancis has also served as a wine consultant to Queen Elizabeth’s cellar, inspiring wine enthusiasts worldwide with her insights and advocacy for sustainable winemaking

The Indian sommeliers I met were unanimous that more somms are needed in their country, pointing out that there are probably a thousand bartenders for every wine waiter.

Jancis Robinson MW OBE

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Professionals

We create a sense of community among wine and spirits professionals, encouraging a supportive environment for learning, sharing, and collaborating. Additionally, we advocate for the beverage and hospitality industry, representing the interests of our members in various forums and discussions, ensuring their voices are heard and their contributions recognized.
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Sommeliers

Our community brings together sommeliers and aspiring sommeliers, offering a space to connect, learn, and grow. Through masterclasses, tastings, training programs, and exclusive events, we empower our members with the skills and knowledge to excel. We also organize seminars and competitions that expose members to international standards, helping them stay at the forefront of the wine industry.

Enthusiasts

We bring together a strong network of passionate wine aficionados. By promoting a deeper appreciation and understanding of the broader beverage culture and heritage, we aim to enrich the experience for all members, enhancing both their knowledge and lifestyle.

Importers & Distributors

Leveraging the expertise and network of sommeliers to enhance business operations, expand market reach, and elevate brand reputation serves as a valuable partner for wine importers and distributors by offering specialised knowledge, market insights, training, networking opportunities, and promotional support.
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Producers

Actively promote and support the growth of the Indian beverage industry by organizing events, tastings, and promotions. Establish partnerships with wineries, distilleries, and breweries to showcase their products, encouraging a greater appreciation for the diversity of Indian produce.
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Hospitality

We are dedicated to enhancing your Beverage Programme by providing access to a talented pool of qualified sommeliers and comprehensive educational resources. Our goal is to assist you in curating exceptional wine lists for your hotel, restaurant, or wine bar, elevating your guests' dining experience.
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