The Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) and International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC) announced the final Future 50 Awards list at the IWSC’s annual Awards Banquet on Wednesday, November 27. The Future 50 is a new initiative created by WSET and IWSC in celebration of their joint 50th birthdays by selecting “50 under 40” future influencers of the global drinks industry.
“The Future 50 offers a genuine reflection of the young talent we have in the wine, spirit and sake categories globally,” says WSET Chief Executive Ian Harris. “The winner’s roles are diverse, and we look forward to seeing them making their mark and shaping the future of our industry.” Click here for the full list of winners (https://www.wsetglobal.com/news-events/the-future-50-awards/).
The Future 50 have been identified as the industry’s up-and-coming talent from all areas of the trade ranging from distiller, viticulturalist, historian and bartender to food and beverage activists, that have made a significant contribution to the industry in the last three years in a variety of areas including career, academics, social responsibility and innovation. There were more than 600 nominations for the first round, a long-list of professionals working as winemakers and distillers, product development, design and distribution, marketing, journalism, hospitality and more.
Selecting the winners was a two-stage vetting process led by an illustrious panel of expert judges from around the world. These include Stephanie Macleod (Master Blender, Dewar’s), Richard Paterson (Master Blender, Whyte & MacKay), Xavier Rousset MS (restaurateur), Joe Fattorini (The Wine Show), Ian Harris (WSET) and Allen Gibbons (IWSC), supported by a global regional advisory panel covering 17 countries.
IWSC Chief Executive in Fine Wines and Spirits, Christelle Guibert, says, “Narrowing down the 600+ nominations we received from around the world was a rigorous and lengthy process, with each candidate showing a wealth of talent and expertise. We are confident that the final 50 showcases the brightest sparks of the wine, spirits and sake industries, and look forward to seeing their careers develop over the coming years.”
Please visit Future 50 (https://www.wsetglobal.com/news-events/the-future-50-awards/) to view details of the Future 50 winners.
