The Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (ASI), the non-profit global governing body of sommellerie, is pleased to announce the semi-finalists for the ASI Contest Best Sommelier of the Americas 2025. Earlier today, candidates from across the Americas congregated in Santa Rosa, in Sonoma County, for the quarter-final round. During the event contest the candidates which came to California from North America, the Caribbean, Central and South America are showcasing their service skills and deep knowledge of wine, beer, spirits, and other beverages.

Each of the competitors were put through a rigorous quarterfinal round featuring a combination of service, tastings and written examinations. ASI Vice-president Americas Matias Prezioso says “historically Argentina and Canada have dominated this competition, but now with the inclusion of a candidate from the United States and the rising quality of sommeliers from every corner of the Americas, anyone can win this contest.”

Of the contest, ASI President William Wouters says “contests such as this are much more than competitions. They are an opportunity for our sommelier community to gather in celebration of the diversity within the world of wine, spirits, and service. These gatherings are opportunities for our candidates, member association delegates, press and ASI committee members to network and learn from each other. We also believe it is important for these to be learning opportunities. Over the course of the contest attendees experience a lineup of masterclasses designed to explore both local and international beverages.” Masterclasses for the week include:

California Wine Institute: A History of California Wine Through the Lens of 5 Glasses

Unveiling Vinhos Verdes: Vinhos Verdes Demarcated Region AVAs of Sonoma: Sonoma County Vintners

Water and Wine by Perlage: Perlage Water Rediscovering Grape Heritage: Familia Torres

Sustainable, Organic and Regenerative Viticulture: The Present and Future: Jackson Family Wines

Japanese Kokushu: Exploring the Artistry Behind Craft Sake and Honkaku Shochu: Japan Sake and Shochu Makers Association

Wines of the Pacific Northwest, the Second Century Begins: Washington Wine Commission & Oregon Wine Board

The Magic, Mystery and Meaning in Mezcal: Del Maguey Mezcal

 With each ASI event, the association aims to elevate the knowledge of its sommeliers and showcase the diversity of the beverage world.

We present you the Questionnaire to test your knowledge:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1sWvjFmOSObUHYNHwX4_mUcsDuu7uzm4i/view?usp=sharing

Photo Credit: ASI