World’s Best Sommeliers’ Selection 2025 unveiled

• Renowned sommeliers hailing from all over the world honour wines spanning 19 countries as part of a rigorous selection process

In the ultimate tasting of world-class wines, top sommeliers from across the globe gathered in the UK in January to judge the second edition of the World’s Best Sommeliers’ Selection. More than thirty of the most influential palates in the hospitality industry came together to assess an exceptional line-up of wines, all vying for a place in this prestigious selection.

Serving as a trusted reference for on-trade professionals worldwide, this year’s selection features wines from 19 countries spanning every colour, style and expression, from revered classics to bold new expressions, established icons to rising stars. The World’s Best Sommeliers’ Selection 2025 is available to view here, accompanied by the sommeliers’ collective tasting notes and food pairing recommendations.

Producers from around the world submitted their finest bottles, hoping to impress the experts and secure a spot on the list. The panel was made up of sommeliers and beverage directors from four continents and 18 countries, each possessing an extensive knowledge and passion for wine, offering a diverse range of perspectives on quality and style.

Ryan Bailey, Co-Founder and Partner at Kato, Los Angeles, says: “We all have different ideas of what quality wine should be because we interact with different demographics and guests. So what might be on trend in one place can be completely different in another.” This diversity ensures that the final selection reflects a truly global standard of excellence.

The panel included expert palates from some of the world’s most prestigious venues, many of which feature on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2024 list. Sommeliers from acclaimed restaurants such as The World’s Best Restaurant 2024, Disfrutar, Barcelona (No.1); Table by Bruno Verjus, Paris (No.3); Maido, Lima (No.5) and Sézanne, Tokyo (No.15) have lent their expertise, while renowned sommelier, Jhonel Faelnar whose New York restaurant, Atomix, was named The Best Restaurant in North America as part of The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2024, presided over the selection process. See the full list of participating sommeliers here.

President Jhonel Faelnar comments: “These are people who care deeply about what they do. They make decisions that shape what is poured at top restaurants around the world… This experience has been amazing because not only are you tasting with like-minded individuals, but with palates that are already changing the way we drink and think about wine today.”

For producers, submitting wines into the tasting offers an unparalleled opportunity to showcase their work to some of the most influential palates in the world. Kevin Lu, Chief Sommelier at Logy, Taipei says: “As a producer, you have the possibility in just one tasting to reach all parts of the world. Sommeliers act as storytellers, conveying the history, terroir, and craftsmanship behind each bottle.”

Andrew Reed, Managing Director Wine and Exhibitions at William Reed, comments: “The World’s Best Sommeliers’ Selection is a testament to the passion, expertise, and commitment of the global wine community. It’s a privilege to bring together this diverse group of sommeliers, each with their own unique perspectives, to taste and celebrate wines from all corners of the globe. Our goal is to provide producers with a platform that not only highlights the quality and innovation in the wine industry but also serves as a valuable resource for wine professionals worldwide. We are excited for what’s to come in future editions.”

Manuel Muga from Bodegas Muga in Rioja says “It is an incredible honour to be selected for the World’s Best Sommeliers’ Selection. It’s not just about showcasing our wines to top sommeliers from 50 Best Restaurants, but about sharing the story of our family, vineyard, our dedication to quality, and the unique expression of our terroir. The opportunity to receive feedback from such esteemed professionals helps us refine our craft and reach new audiences around the world. It’s a unique opportunity for our wines to be considered by some of the most influential palates in the industry, and we’re thrilled to be part of this global conversation.”