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.
Earlier today, 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.
Announcement of the semi-Finalists
With the quarterfinal round behind them, the competitors, national presidents, judges and press gathered today at The Red Barn in Sonoma, a rustic 100-year old barn, set amongst the rolling hills of the region.
ASI extends its warmest congratulations to the semi-finalists, and all competitors, as well gratitude to BUSA (Best United States Sommelier Association) for their role in hosting this year’s event.
The semi-finalists are:
- Nicolas Reines (Colombia)
- Mark Guillaudeu (USA)
- Joseph Ruiz Acosta (Peru)
- Jerónimo Tellarini (Uruguay)
- Guilhem Renaud (Ecuador)
- Joris Gutierrez Garcia (Canada)
Livestream of ASI Contest Best Sommellier of The America’s finale
The finale will take place on Thursday, 20 February, at 2:00 PM Pacific Standard Time. The event will also be broadcast live worldwide via YouTube.