Waitrose & International Wine & Spirit Competition Search For Next Rising Star

Waitrose and the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC) have started their 2014 worldwide search to find the next big star in the wine industry, for the annual Julian Brind Memorial Award for Outstanding Achievement.

The late Julian Brind MW, was a leading light in the wine trade and an integral part of the Waitrose wine team for over forty years. The award was created by Waitrose, in association with the IWSC, where he was a longstanding judge, to honour his contribution and service to the trade that he loved. He was a trusted and committed mentor to many aspiring young wine professionals, as well as being a dedicated family man, full of energy both for his work and his leisure activities.  

This prestigious title will be awarded to the man or woman who demonstrates they have the courage of their convictions, dedication to the industry and passion for real wine. The recipient will have established an early track record in their field, be seen to be ‘going places’, and will already be taking part in the wider aspects of the wine trade, showing commitment and determination in everything they do. The 2014 winner will follow in the footsteps of esteemed Restaurant owner & Sommelier, Xavier Rousset MS.

To nominate a candidate, please contact Louise Bolton at louise.bolton@iwscgroup.com. The deadline for entries is Friday 29^th August.

The winner will be announced at the IWSC awards banquet, to be held at London’s Guildhall on 12^th November 2014.

Notes to editors:

For more information please contact Holly Axelrad at Green Row, Holly@greenrow.co.uk

- The International Wine and Spirit Competition was founded in 1969 and is the premier competition of its kind in the world. Its aim is to promote the quality and excellence of the world's best wines, spirits and liqueurs. All entries are blind tasted in groups divided by variety, region and vintage as necessary.

- IWSC has appointed Laura Catena as the 2014 president. 

- The 2014 Annual Awards Banquet will be held on Wednesday 12^th November, at The Guild Hall, City of London.

- The IWSC has partnered with Wines Direct to promote its top 2014 award winning wines. The price comparison website will allow consumers to search for medal winners by country, variety, colour, region, or retailer. The website will also show judges’ tasting notes for wines which has won trophy, gold, gold outstanding and silver outstanding.