Where the UK hospitality community comes together to support the next generation of talent.
Join us for the UK Sommelier of the Year 2026 Final — a unique moment where the UK’s hospitality community comes together to celebrate talent, skill, and the future of the profession.
More than just a competition, this is a live, high-level industry event, bringing together sommeliers, front-of-house professionals, buyers, and leading figures from across hospitality for an afternoon of insight, competition, and connection.
The event will be presented and hosted by David Kermode, bringing his expertise and energy to guide you through the competition and the evening.
About the UK Sommelier of the Year
The UK Sommelier of the Year is one of the country’s most respected competitions, designed to identify and support the next generation of leading sommeliers.
Built around the standards of the Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (ASI), and in partnership with the UK Sommelier Academy, the competition challenges candidates across tasting, theory, and service — reflecting the real demands of top-level hospitality.
It is not just about winning — it is about learning, development, and building a strong, connected community within the industry.
The UK Sommelier of the Year competition is owned and produced by Trade Hospitality, and delivered in partnership with the UK Sommelier Academy, which is responsible for the exam and assessment in line with Association de la Sommellerie Internationale frameworks.
Event Schedule – Tuesday 7 July 2026
- 13:00 – Doors open
- 14:00 – 17:30 – Live Final Competition
Watch the UK’s top sommeliers compete across a series of technical and service challenges. During breaks, enjoy wines and drinks from our partners. - 17:30 – 18:30 – Networking Break
Enjoy wines and drinks from our partners, with canapés served while the jury deliberates - 18:30 – 1915 – Results Announcement
- 19:15 – 20:30 – Celebration & Industry Drinks
Why attend?
- Experience the UK’s leading sommelier competition live
- Connect with peers across hospitality and front-of-house
- Discover wines and products from our partners
- Be part of a growing community focused on education, mentorship, and excellence
This is a rare opportunity to step outside the day-to-day and engage with the wider industry in a meaningful way.
Important information
This event is strictly reserved for hospitality and front-of-house professionals.
Registrations will be reviewed, and entry may be refused to those not working within the industry.