As Head of Wine at Lucas Collective, Loïc Avril brings nearly two decades of expertise to the group, leading the curation of exceptional beverage programs across its diverse collection of celebrated venues.

Loïc has a notable international career that includes 11 years with The Fat Duck Group, both as Assistant Head Sommelier at Michelin-starred UK restaurant The Fat Duck and as Wine Director at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal Melbourne.

He has earned numerous global accolades throughout his time in the industry, including taking the title of 3rd Best Sommelier in Asia Oceania for 2022, being named 18th Best Sommelier in the World at the ASI’s 2019 awards and being recognised as the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs World’s Best Young Sommelier of the Year for 2013.

Beyond his technical prowess, Avril possesses a genuine passion for hospitality, drawing inspiration from his French heritage and global travels, and centring his practice around interaction and education.

Since joining Lucas Collective in 2020 to assist with the opening of its landmark Melbourne venue Society, Avril has been instrumental in creating and cultivating a collection of food and beverage destinations that have helped redefine Australia’s hospitality landscape.