InterContinental Bangkok played host to the first-ever Jeunes Sommeliers Competition 2017 on 22nd June 2017, sponsored by the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs.
In 2007, the Chaîne inaugurated the annual International Jeunes Sommeliers Competition to offer young sommeliers, between the ages of 21 and 31, the opportunity to present their skills and ‘savoir-faire’ under highly competitive, intense and grueling testing conditions.
Each participant was tested on service, blind tasting, and theory. The lucky first-prize winner was Ms. Phanwadee Manusphaibool, Sommelier for L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon, who will receive a fully paid trip to Budapest to compete in the international finals September of this year. The other participants included Mr. Dirakerit Kotchawong, Assistant Manager/ Sommelier of Riedel Wine Bar; Ms. Nepaka Thongkerd, Sales Executive for Texica; and Mr. Watchara Leelao, Sommelier of the Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok.
The mission of the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs members is to promote, encourage, and support young professionals seeking to be the best sommeliers of the future. Their goal is accomplished by the organization promoting enjoyment, knowledge and an understanding of fine wines and craft beverages.
The competition was based on the Court of Master Sommelier (UK) Advanced testing procedures. The three-part exam was judged by a respected panel from the Thailand wine industry.
Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, Bailliage National De Thailasnd would like to take the opportunity and thank everyone who participated in both organizing this event our Echanson Mr. Thomas Schmelter, our competitors, the four judges who took part. Special thanks to our sponsors InterContinental Hotel, Lucaris Glasses and our wine sponsor Texica Wine and Wine Garage.
The final round of the International Jeunes Sommeliers Competition will take place in Budapest between 29th and 30th of September in 2017 where contenders from around the world will take part from different Bailliages of Chaine.