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Jai Singh wins 2025 SAI Best Sommelier of India competition Photograph: (Jai Singh wins 2025 SAI Best Sommelier of India competition)
Jai Singh clinched victory at the inaugural 2025 SAI Best Sommelier of India competition held at the iconic The LaLiT, Mumbai. Emerging as the winner after intense quarter-finals and semi-finals, he was crowned 2025 SAI Best Sommelier of India by a prestigious jury panel of global wine icons.
The competition, which served as the national qualifier for leading international platforms, drew talented sommeliers from across India and Indian sommeliers working abroad in places like Dubai, Maldives, Singapore, Italy, New Zealand, and on international cruise ships. Following Jai’s triumph, Pankaj Singh and Amber Deshmukh secured second and third places, respectively.
The top three winners will now embark on an exciting journey, attending the esteemed ASI Education Boot Camp in Singapore this July. Jai will make history by representing India for the first time ever at the 2025 ASI Contest Best Sommelier of Asia & Pacific in Malaysia and the 2026 ASI Contest Best Sommelier of the World in Portugal.
Sharing her excitement, Amrita Singh, Co-Founder and President of the Sommeliers Association of India, said, “The successful execution of this inaugural event marks a defining moment for the Indian sommelier community. All participants should be proud of their outstanding performances, and we are excited to see how they will continue to contribute to the growth of India’s hospitality culture.”
The esteemed jury panel, consisting of renowned industry icons, ensured a fair and thorough evaluation process in line with the guidelines of the Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (ASI).
Mattia Antonio Cianca, Co-Founder and Vice-President of the Sommeliers Association of India, remarked, “This marks a great beginning for Indian sommellerie, showcasing immense potential and promising talent. The level of skill and passion displayed during the competition, gives us the confidence that Indian sommeliers are ready to shine on the world stage.”
Saiko Tamura-Soga, ASI Vice President for Asia & Pacific, praised the event, stating, “The inaugural of Best Sommelier of India competition, organised by SAI to uphold world-class standards, has concluded with resounding success. I am deeply impressed by the exceptional talent, dedication, and humility demonstrated by the Indian sommeliers who participated.”
The event was supported by industry professionals and leading brands, including Good Drop Wine, Angel’s Share, RED- Rad Elan Distributors Pvt Ltd, Good Times, and others.