The Sommeliers Association of India

The Sommeliers Association of India (SAI) achieved a defining moment in the country’s wine history by launching its first internationally recognized competition in partnership with the Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (ASI). This ground-breaking initiative not only elevates India’s standing in the global wine community but also paves the way for a new generation of wine connoisseurs to showcase their expertise on an international platform.

This watershed moment comes at a time when India’s beverage landscape is undergoing a remarkable transformation. From exclusive wine bars in metropolitan cities to rising interest in craft beverages across tier-two towns, the country’s thirst for refined drinking experiences has never been more apparent.

The competition, held at the landmark The Lalit Mumbai, drew the finest sommeliers from across the country, culminating in an intense finale that showcased exceptional talent and expertise. After rigorous rounds of blind tastings, service challenges, and theoretical assessments, the winners emerged as true ambassadors of India’s growing wine culture.

The competition represents more than just a test of wine knowledge—it’s a gateway for Indian sommeliers to step onto the global stage. Winners will receive specialized training from award-winning experts, preparing them for prestigious international competitions like the Best Sommelier of Asia & Pacific and the Best Sommelier of the World.

At the helm of this initiative are Amrita Singh, co-founder & president of the Sommeliers Association of India, and Mattia Antonio Cianca, co-founder & vice president of the Sommeliers Association of India, whose vision extends beyond organizing competitions. They see SAI as a catalyst for elevating India’s beverage industry standards through education and professional development.

In an exclusive interview with Rajeev Mokashi, co-founder of TheGlitz, Amrita and Mattia shared their insights on India’s evolving wine culture, the challenges of building a world-class sommelier community, and their ambitious plans to elevate Indian sommeliers on the global stage.

Rajeev Mokashi: The Sommeliers Association of India is the first of its kind in the country. How do you see this impacting the perception of wine and beverage appreciation among younger audiences in India?

Amrita Singh: The Sommeliers Association of India (SAI) is uniquely positioned to transform how younger audiences perceive wine and beverage appreciation in the country. By fostering an inclusive platform that integrates education, global exposure, and local traditions, SAI is inspiring a new generation to engage with wine and beverages in a more sophisticated and informed manner.

The association’s emphasis on creating a vibrant ecosystem of professionals, enthusiasts, and educational opportunities ensures that young audiences not only develop a refined palate but also embrace responsible and culturally aware consumption. Through initiatives like competitions, workshops, and collaborations with global industry leaders, SAI is nurturing curiosity and cultivating a modern, youthful perspective on the world of wine.

RM: What are the key objectives of the association, and how do you plan to influence the beverage industry’s future in India through your initiatives?

Mattia Antonio Cianca: The key objectives of the Sommeliers Association of India are to elevate the standards of wine education, service, and appreciation while creating opportunities for Indian professionals to gain international recognition. By introducing world-class certification programs, fostering mentorship networks, and organizing national competitions, SAI is empowering professionals to refine their craft and set benchmarks for excellence.

These efforts aim to bridge the gap between India’s growing wine culture and the global industry. SAI also emphasizes inclusivity by encouraging diverse participation from different regions and demographics, ensuring the association represents the richness of India’s cultural and culinary heritage. These initiatives collectively aim to transform India into a global hub for wine and beverage expertise.

RM: The association recently launched its membership program. How do you ensure the program caters not just to professionals but also to enthusiasts and budding sommeliers?

AS: The SAI membership program has been designed to offer something valuable to every segment of the wine and beverage community, whether they are professionals, enthusiasts, or aspiring sommeliers. Professionals benefit from advanced training, international certifications, and opportunities to participate in global competitions. Enthusiasts gain access to curated events, master classes, and exclusive publications that enhance their appreciation of wine.

For budding sommeliers, the program provides mentorship from seasoned experts, access to foundational courses, and resources to build a strong career. By offering tailored benefits and fostering a sense of community, the membership program ensures that all members, regardless of their experience or aspirations, feel supported and engaged.

RM: The membership program aims to bring together diverse stakeholders. How do you balance the needs of professionals, enthusiasts, and industry leaders under one platform?

AS: Balancing the needs of diverse stakeholders requires a flexible and inclusive approach. SAI achieves this by curating programs that address different levels of expertise and interest. For professionals, the focus is on skill enhancement through advanced certifications, competitions, and networking opportunities.

Enthusiasts enjoy access to events and educational resources that deepen their understanding of wine culture. Industry leaders benefit from partnerships that foster collaboration, innovation, and brand visibility. By creating tiered membership categories and offering personalized benefits, SAI ensures that the platform serves as a unifying space where all stakeholders can learn, contribute, and grow together.

RM: With the global spotlight on India’s growing wine scene, how does the association’s membership program position Indian sommeliers to collaborate or exchange knowledge internationally?

MAC: The SAI membership program connects Indian sommeliers with a global network through its affiliation with the Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (ASI). Members gain access to internationally recognized certifications and opportunities to participate in global competitions, enabling them to showcase their skills on an international stage.

Additionally, partnerships with renowned organizations like GuildSomm and JancisRobinson.com provide members with access to world-class resources and forums for knowledge exchange. This exposure not only enhances the professional credibility of Indian sommeliers but also encourages collaboration with global peers, positioning India as a rising force in the international wine community.

RM: The 2025 SAI Best Sommelier of India competition is generating a lot of buzz. Could you share some unique features or highlights that set this competition apart from others?

AS: The 2025 SAI Best Sommelier of India competition stands out due to its emphasis on fostering excellence and global competitiveness. Unlike many other competitions, this event combines rigorous assessments of technical skills, such as blind tasting and food pairing, with evaluations of service acumen and cultural awareness.

Participants also receive mentorship from award-winning sommeliers, preparing them for international contests such as the ASI Contest Best Sommelier of Asia & Pacific and the ASI Contest Best Sommelier of the World. The competition not only highlights individual talent but also serves as a platform to celebrate India’s emerging wine culture and inspire the next generation of sommeliers.

RM: Beyond technical skills, what qualities do you look for in participants during sommelier competitions, and why are these important for the profession?

MAC: While technical expertise in tasting and service is essential, SAI places equal importance on qualities such as cultural awareness, adaptability, and a genuine passion for the craft. These attributes are critical because sommeliers are not only experts in their field but also ambassadors of wine culture.

They must possess the ability to communicate effectively, engage with diverse audiences, and create memorable experiences for guests. These qualities ensure that sommeliers contribute meaningfully to the dining experience, foster greater appreciation for wine, and uphold the profession’s reputation for excellence and elegance.

RM: For aspiring sommeliers and beverage enthusiasts in India, what message would you like to share about joining the Sommeliers Association of India and participating in its initiatives like the Best Sommelier of India competition?

MAC: For aspiring sommeliers and enthusiasts, joining the Sommeliers Association of India is an invitation to be part of a transformative journey. The association offers unparalleled opportunities to learn, grow, and connect with both local and global wine communities. Through initiatives such as the Best Sommelier of India competition, SAI provides a platform to showcase talent, refine skills, and gain recognition at an international level. Whether you are starting out or seeking to deepen your knowledge, SAI supports your aspirations with mentorship, education, and a vibrant community that shares your passion for wine and beverages.

RM: Looking ahead, Amrita, what are the association’s long-term goals, and how do you envision its role in shaping India’s identity on the global wine and beverage stage?

AS: The long-term vision of the Sommeliers Association of India is to establish the country as a recognized leader in the global wine and beverage industry. By nurturing talent, fostering inclusivity, and promoting education, SAI aims to create a thriving community of sommeliers who represent India on international platforms. The association envisions a future where Indian wines and sommeliers are celebrated for their unique contributions to the global stage. Through sustained efforts in training, mentorship, and international collaboration, SAI aspires to shape India’s identity as a destination for world-class wine expertise and innovation.