IWSC Emerging Talent Awards: The Fresh Face Transforming Wine Communications

We are pleased to announce that Cokie Ponikvar has been crowned the IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communications winner, recognised for her dynamic and accessible approach to wine education.

Cokie received strong support from the judges and was popular winner of this category. Judge, David Kermode said “I love the fact that she is connecting with a new generation of wine lovers who value knowledge and authenticity. It's not gimmicky. She's got real integrity. She's got a huge amount of knowledge. And I think she communicates with such laudable energy.”

Through her Instagram platform, Cokie’s World of Wine, Cokie engages nearly half a million followers worldwide. Her content, such as a video explaining cork production, which attracted 16.5 million views, is marked by a unique blend of factual precision and lively delivery. By demystifying subjects, for example how Pinot Noir should taste, Cokie gives her audience the confidence to explore wine without intimidation.

Deep Roots in the Wine Industry
Beyond social media success, Cokie is deeply rooted in the wine trade. A Master of Wine student and former sommelier at the Four Seasons Hotel in Toronto, she has hands-on experience from working harvests in both the Finger Lakes and Oregon. Her academic pursuits, including studying for the Advanced Sommelier exam, underpin her authority and commitment to lifelong learning.

Cokie’s work is driven by a clear purpose: to modernise wine communication and make it accessible to a younger generation. She believes that, while social media holds huge potential for the wine industry, it remains largely untapped. She hopes to lead the way in helping brands and regional bodies better engage with new audiences by using platforms like Instagram more effectively.

Inspired by Jancis Robinson’s ability to bridge the gap between consumers and professionals, Cokie strives to emulate that clarity and inclusiveness in her own content. She is not only focused on sharing knowledge but on reshaping the way the wine world communicates, making it more open, relevant, and vibrant.

Looking Ahead
During the judging process, when asked how she might use the winner’s travel bursary Cokie highlighted South Africa. It’s a country she feels deserves greater international attention. By highlighting underrepresented wine areas, she hopes to continue broadening the global conversation around wine.

Already a respected voice, Cokie Ponikvar is undoubtedly a rising star, and a powerful force for change in the future of wine communications.

IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communicationas is supported by the Consorzio di Tutela del Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG