After considering nearly 20 applications from brilliant communicators from across the world, the IWSC (International Wine and Spirit Competition) is delighted to share the shortlist for its 2024 Wine Communicator Trophy.
This year’s trophy was judged by 2023 winner Jane Anson, 2022 winner Sarah Heller MW, IWSC Judging Committee Member Sarah Abbott MW, as well as Editorial Director of Club Oenologique Laura Richards and CEO of the IWSC Christelle Guibert. The judging panel was completed by Marco Battocchia from Vinitaly, the sponsor of this award.
The shortlisted entrants for the 2024 IWSC Wine Communicator Trophy are:
Amanda Barnes, Agustina de Alba, Anne Krebiehl MW, Essi Avellan MW and Tom Surgey
What the judges say of Essi:
Finland’s first Master of Wine, Essi Avellan’s list of accomplishments is incredible. Essi is a renowned sparkling wine and champagne specialist and author of several books; her in-depth publications in various media are a real treasure box of valuable insights – for consumers and trade professionals alike. In 2022, Club Oenologique published Essi’s extensive report on Champagne, for which she assessed hundreds of champagnes from the major houses. This was followed by a Grower Champagne report. In addition to her work as a writer, the judges were impressed by Essi’s ability to reach thousands of people during her big public events. Essi is the organiser of the annual Grand Champagne Helsinki event, as well as working actively as a wine educator. The judges spoke highly of Essi’s work this year, particlularly the launch of her personal website where she shares in-depth information on champagne, as well as her tasting notes. “She is an amazingly accomplished person and very focused, very dedicated to promoting champagne and other sparkling wines,” said the judges.
The winner of 2024 Wine Communicator Trophy will be announced at IWSC Awards Celebration on 19 October at the Roundhouse.