IWSC heads to Franciacorta for Global Judging 2025

Wine news

Tue 14 Jan 2025

By Rebecca Fraser

The IWSC is thrilled to announce a new chapter in its Global Judging series. For the first time, in March 2025, our judging event will take place in the stunning hills of Franciacorta.

In partnership with The Franciacorta Consortium, the IWSC’s international panel of expert judges led by Master of Wine Essi Avellan, will evaluate wines from this renowned sparkling region. Producers of all sizes are invited to participate.

Essi Avellan MW commented: “Franciacorta is an exciting and dynamic region, producing sparkling wines that have become synonymous with high quality. Judging Franciacorta wines in their place of origin will allow our international team of experts to immerse themselves in the local wine culture, gain insider knowledge, and ultimately become ambassadors of Franciacorta on the global stage. I look forward to tasting the diverse offerings of this region and meeting its talented wine producers.”

This partnership underscores the IWSC’s dedication to judging wines and spirits in-situ, supporting producers and regions worldwide. Christelle Guibert, CEO of the IWSC, has championed this initiative, bringing judging events to Europe, Asia, Australia, South Africa and North America since its launch in 2022.

Guibert said: “I am delighted to have agreed this new partnership with the Franciacorta Consortium. It represents our second Italian partnership and highlights the value of these events to both the region and its wine producers. Judges gain a truly immersive experience, staying up to date on the region’s latest developments and enjoying an authentic exchange of knowledge and culture, which in turn provides the region with a group of global ambassadors and helps ensure the highest standards of judging.”

Key Details:
Entries close: 14 February 2025
Judging dates: 3–7 March 2025
Results announcement: 10 March 2025

Benefits for producers include:
  • Discounted entry fee
  • Convenient local delivery
  • Global exposure for award-winning wines
  • Inclusion in IWSC’s 2025 campaigns
  • Access to renowned international wine judges
  • Award-winning wines showcased to the UK's trade and press
For more information and to enter the IWSC Judging in Franciacorta, visit our website.