Media Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 2024
WA Wines to the World: Celebrating the Success of Western Australia’s First National Sommelier Competition in the United States
WA Wines to the World, has successfully concluded its inaugural national sommelier competition in the United States, bringing Western Australian wines to the forefront of the U.S. wine market. The program, comprising exhibition tables at the TEXSOM Conference in Dallas, competition finals in Houston, as well as trade masterclasses and consumer events in Houston and Austin, generated excitement and valuable exposure for Western Australian wines.
Coordinated by Botrytis Consulting’s Jane Lopes and Jonathan Ross—renowned wine educators, master sommeliers, and co-authors of How to Drink Australian—the event showcased Western Australian wines to influential U.S. sommeliers, trade representatives, and consumers.
This week, Western Australia welcomes US Sommelier, Micah Clark of Raffles Boston (MA), to the Margaret River region, as first prize winner of the Western Australian Wine Competition.
Highlights
- TEXSOM Conference (Dallas, August 25): Two Western Australian tables (featuring wines that participated in the competition) attracted considerable interest, with sommeliers and attendees keen to experience the diverse offerings of WA wines.
- Competition Finals, Trade Masterclass & Consumer Tasting Event (Houston, August 28): 30 trade attendees and the North American team from Wine Australia attended, resulting in stellar feedback. Competitors demonstrated exceptional skill, correctly identifying WA grape varieties and regions, showcasing their knowledge of Australian wine culture and history. Consul-General Gabrielle Hall lauded the event’s success and announced the competition winners.
- Trade Masterclass & Dinner (Austin, August 29): Collaboration with Invest & Trade Western Australia led to a well-attended session with trade members and the local Australian business community, reinforcing a growing interest in the region’s offerings.
With over 130 initial sign-ups, culminating in eight finalists for the in-person competition, this program provided an unparalleled platform for WA wineries to engage directly with U.S. wine service professionals and consumers. First place winner, Micah Clark, has earned an immersive week in Margaret River, fostering lasting ties with the Western Australian wine industry.
Looking ahead this successful campaign has laid a strong foundation to deepen WA wines’ footprint in the U.S. by enhancing distributor relationships, expanding availability, and driving sustained interest. Botrytis Consulting’s involvement continues to open doors for the Western Australian wine industry, highlighting the importance of knowledge-building events that resonate with industry professionals and consumers alike.
For more information and enquiries:
• Refer to the WA WINES TO THE WORLD web page
• See photos from the event here
• Contact Program Manager Liz Mencel at [email protected]
About WA WINES TO THE WORLD:
This activation is proudly supported by WA WINES TO THE WORLD; an industry-led Export Growth Partnership coordinated by Wines of WA, co-funded by DPIRD (Dept of Primary Industries and Regional Development).
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