Martina Wilhelm Crowned Switzerland’s “Jungsommelière des Jahres” Amid Growing Wine Diversity

Martina Wilhelm, known as “Wöschi”, was announced as the 2024 Jungsommelière des Jahres by GaultMillau. In an interview she recounted her path from a non‑drinker during school to a sommelier at the Widder Hotel in Zürich, highlighting the discipline required in the profession and the support of her family. Wilhelm praised curiosity, openness and continuous learning as key to her success.

At the same time the Swiss wine sector is being celebrated for its expanding diversity. Producers across cantons such as Wallis, Graubünden, Vaud, Ticino, Zürich and Basel‑Landschaft are gaining international awards thanks to terroir‑driven practices and a focus on quality. Varietals like Heida, Petite Arvine, Cornalin, Syrah and the revived Chasselas are gaining prominence, and warmer growing seasons are further enhancing the range of wines exported worldwide.