The Best Sommelier of Chile 2024 competition, organized by the Chilean Sommelier Association (ASCL), concluded with resounding success, crowning Marcelo Arriagada as the Best Sommelier in the country for the second consecutive time.
This event, held on May 28 and 29 at INACAP Apoquindo, brought together the top exponents of Chilean sommellerie in a high-level competition.
The contest, supported by VSPT Wine Group, INACAP, Wines of Chile, Grupo Alta Sur, and Aguas Maihue, began on the 28th with a brunch courtesy of Les Toques Blanches, kicking off two days of intense competition where participants showcased their wine expertise. Later, the contestants faced closed-door tests.
On the 29th, the focus shifted to well-attended free seminars, an ASCL initiative to offer learning and updating opportunities for industry professionals.
The four seminars, led by distinguished experts, covered topics such as wine and wood, the art of the wine list, the new DIAM tradition, and heritage winemaking.
The grand finale, celebrated in the Aula Magna of INACAP Apoquindo, drew a large live audience and over 1,000 viewers who followed the streaming broadcast on the Wine Channel.
The three finalists, Marcelo Arriagada, Francisca Herrera, and Gustavo Fernández, faced 5 individual tests and 3 simultaneous tests, demonstrating their skill in tasting, service, pairing, and theoretical knowledge before a demanding jury.
After a fierce competition, Marcelo Arriagada emerged as the Best Sommelier of Chile 2024, reaffirming his 2021 victory.
His performance across all tests positioned him as the standout candidate, showcasing a deep understanding of wine and a great ability to communicate it to others.
With this new triumph, Marcelo Arriagada begins his preparation to represent Chile at the Pan American Sommelier Competition 2025 in the United States, and the World Sommelier Competition 2026 in Portugal.
Héctor Vergara Flores, President of the Chilean Sommelier Association, stated:
The Best Sommelier of Chile 2024 competition has been a true milestone for Chilean sommellerie. Its high technical level, the participation of outstanding professionals, the large audience turnout, and the success of SOMMDATE make it a benchmark in the field of sommellerie both nationally and internationally.
Additionally, Carolina Gotuzzo, Director of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability at VSPT Wine Group, highlighted that:
At VSPT Wine Group, we are committed to the development and promotion of the Chilean wine industry. Our passion for wine motivates us to participate in events like this, which exemplify the excellence and professionalism we strive to promote in the industry. This competition not only highlights the talent and dedication of our sommeliers but also strengthens Chile as an origin, with world-class professionals. We are proud to have been part of this event and look forward to seeing our representatives shine in future international competitions.
