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.

Federico Pavan
Federico Pavan

Position: Director of Mixology

Company: Brown's Hotel a Rocco Forte Hotel

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Desmond Payne MBE
Desmond Payne MBE

Position: Master Distiller,Beefeater Gin

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Oliver  Pergl
Oliver Pergl

Position: Tequila Educator

Company: Proximo U.K

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Tony Pescatori
Tony Pescatori

Position: Managing Director

Company: Alma by Sucre

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James  Phillips
James Phillips

Position: Beer & Spirits Buyer

Company: Jeroboams

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Vanessa Piromallo
Vanessa Piromallo

Position: Writer and Shop owner

Company: That's The spirit

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Francesco Pittala
Francesco Pittala

Position: Beverage Consultant

Company: Liquids & Creativity Ltd

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Luca Ponte
Luca Ponte

Position: Assistant Manager

Company: Claridge's

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Georgi  Radev
Georgi Radev

Position: Bar Owner

Company: Laki Kane

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Madhu Rajigani
Madhu Rajigani

Position: Brand Ambassador - The Macallan

Company: Edrington

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Jenny Rea
Jenny Rea

Position: Lead Product Development

Company: Marks & Spencer

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Lucas Reynaud-Paligot
Lucas Reynaud-Paligot

Position: Assistant Head-Sommelier

Company: The Connaught

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Keli Rivers
Keli Rivers

Position: Sr National Brand Ambassador

Company: Sipsmith

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Caroline Roddis
Caroline Roddis

Position: Writer

Company: Freelance

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Bryan Rodriguez-Curtis
Bryan Rodriguez-Curtis

Position: Wine & Spirit Judge and Consultant

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Josh Rosenbaum
Josh Rosenbaum

Company: Glenrinnes Distillery Ltd. (Eight Lands Organic Spirits)

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Steve Rush
Steve Rush

Position: Spirits Communicator

Company: The Whisky Wire

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Derek Sandhaus
Derek Sandhaus

Position: Author and co-founder

Company: Ming River

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