Our experts

MEET THE JUDGES

Recruited for their unrivalled expertise, the IWSC judges are at the heart of our awards

Our judges assess every glass put in front of them methodically to ensure a fair and true result, tasting and discussing each entry alongside the rest of the panel. Our panels consist of experts and influencers from every sector of the drinks trade, from buyers, importers and distributors to the specialists making and serving the drinks. View our judges below.

Bernhard Schaefer
Bernhard Schaefer

Company: European Network of Spirit Experts

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Massimo Serpelloni
Massimo Serpelloni

Position: Bar Manager

Company: Cahoots London

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Kristiane Sherry
Kristiane Sherry

Position: Whisky writer, communicator and educator

Company: Freelance

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Cristian Silenzi
Cristian Silenzi

Position: Head Mixologist

Company: Corinthia London

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Erik Simonics
Erik Simonics

Position: Head of Wine & Beverage

Company: Sunset Hospitality

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Sukhinder Singh
Sukhinder Singh

Position: Owner

Company: Elixir Distillers

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Aidy Smith
Aidy Smith

Position: TV Presenter, Drinks Columnist

Company: The Three Drinkers

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DavidT Smith
DavidT Smith

Position: Member of the Spirits Judging Committee

Company: Summer Fruit Cup

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Nate Sorby
Nate Sorby

Position: Consultant and Brand Ambasador

Company: Elementary Brand Consultancy

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Simone Spagnioli
Simone Spagnioli

Position: Groups Bar Manager

Company: Inception Group

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Fabio Spinetti
Fabio Spinetti

Position: Director of Bars

Company: Rocco Forte Hotels

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Jeremy Stephens
Jeremy Stephens

Company: Cotswolds Distillery

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Emma Stokes
Emma Stokes

Position: Spirits writer and judge

Company: Gin Monkey Ltd

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Rachel Sutherland
Rachel Sutherland

Position: Liquid Subject Matter Expert

Company: Diageo

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Noel  Sweeney
Noel Sweeney

Position: Consultant and Co-Founder

Company: Next Level Distillers

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Charlie Thomas
Charlie Thomas

Position: Gin School FOH Manager

Company: 58 and CO.

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