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ASI Best Sommelier of the World competition in Lisbon

Overview

Lisbon, Portugal, is hosting the 18th edition of the ASI Best Sommelier of the World competition from October 11 to 17, 2026. Organized by the Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (ASI) and the Associação dos Escanções de Portugal, the event marks the first time the competition has returned to Portugal since 1978. The gathering includes delegations from 72 countries and over 3,500 professionals from the wine, hospitality, and restaurant sectors.

Portugal is represented by Marc Pinto, the Wine Director and Head Sommelier at Fifty Seconds. As the competition progresses, the field has narrowed following intense semi-final rounds involving written exams, blind tastings, and practical service tests. For the first time in the 57-year history of the championship, five women reached the semifinals.

At the Coliseu dos Recreios, three finalists have been announced: Pascaline Lepeltier of France, Wataru Iwata of Japan, and Nikolai Haram Svorte of Norway. The event has also featured interaction from students of the Setúbal School of Hospitality and Tourism, who highlighted regional wines from the Setúbal Peninsula. The final stage is scheduled to be broadcast live by the Association Internationale de la Sommellerie.

Entities

Lisbon · Associação dos Escanções de Portugal · Wataru Iwata · Marc Pinto · Association Sommelier International

Timeline

  1. [CULTURE] 4 sources
    Best Sommelier of the World 2026 finalists announced in Lisbon

    The Best Sommelier of the World 2026 competition in Lisbon has announced its three finalists: Pascaline Lepeltier, Wataru Iwata, and Nikolai Haram Svorte, following a historic semifinal featuring five women.

  2. [CULTURE] 3 sources
    Lisbon to host 2026 Best Sommelier of the World competition

    Lisbon will host the 2026 ASI Best Sommelier of the World competition, featuring 72 countries and over 3,500 professionals. Portugal's Marc Pinto will represent the host nation.

  3. [CULTURE] 2 sources
    Lisbon to host ASI Best Sommelier of the World competition

    The 18th ASI Best Sommelier of the World competition will be held in Lisbon, Portugal, from October 11-17, featuring 66 global experts competing in technical skill and hospitality.

Sources

diariodeavisos.com · diariodistrito.sapo.pt · dinheirovivo.pt · marramaque.jor.br · portugal.fr · sapo.pt · tecnovino.com · terredevins.com · vinetur.com

This summary has been updated 2 times: see revision history