Estonia wins ASI Sommelier Championship

BELGRADE. Mikk Parre, representing Estonia, has won the Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (ASI) "Best Sommelier Europe, Africa & Middle East 2024" competition. He beat French participant Pascaline Lepeltier and Martynas Pravilonis from Lithuania in the final. The German participant, Florian Richter from the Kronenschlösschen in Eltville, came eighth in the semi-final.

The final between the three participants was the highlight of the competition. Firstly, the ranks of the semi-finalists were announced one by one. With only three chosen to go through to the final round and therefore have a chance of winning the title, each subsequent announcement brought an emotional mix of pride, anticipation and excitement as the contestants saw their hard work and dedication celebrated. For each contestant, the journey to Belgrade had been long and challenging, for many it began with a national title and culminated on this prominent international stage.

The tension was palpable as the semi-finalists were whittled down to four. Only three of the four would reach the final. With the announcement of fourth-placed Jonathan Gouveia from Denmark, there was a sense of relief and joy among this year's finalists Mikk Parre from Estonia, Pascaline Lepeltier from France and Martynas Pravilonis from Lithuania. The trio then immediately drew lots to determine the order for the final competition. Mikk Parre was the first to compete. The three had to face a series of challenging tasks that would test their expertise, precision and composure under pressure. Each of the finalists demonstrated impressive knowledge, strong tasting skills and smooth service, showing the exceptional talent and passion that characterises the profession of sommelier.

After a series of challenging rounds, Martynas Pravilonis was announced as the runner-up, leaving the remaining two candidates locked in a final moment of suspense. Finally, ASI President William Wouters took to the stage to cheers and applause to announce the winner and proud recipient of the title "ASI Best Sommelier Europe, Africa & Middle East 2024".

Commenting on the event, ASI President William Wouters said: "This competition is a celebration of the remarkable skills and dedication that our candidates bring to the world of wine. Serbia's vibrant culture and hospitality have provided a perfect backdrop for this year's competition, giving our candidates and participants alike an unforgettable experience. We are so proud to have Mikk Parre as our winner. Mikk epitomises the excellence, integrity and passion that ASI stands for and we are confident that he will be an outstanding ambassador for the global sommelier community."