29^th October 2024: Founded in 2024, The Sommeliers Association of India (SAI) is dedicated to educating, connecting, and celebrating professionals and enthusiasts in the world of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. With India’s wine consumption growing rapidly, SAI addresses the need for expertly trained sommeliers to support this burgeoning market. SAI offers its members the chance to elevate their skills through networking, certifications, and participation in international events, all while promoting responsible and informed consumption.

The Sommeliers Association of India (SAI) is proud to announce the launch of its official membership program, an initiative aimed at uniting and elevating the Indian beverage community. As a member of the Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (ASI), SAI is committed to promoting best practices in wine and beverage services while providing unique opportunities for growth, learning, and competition in the industry.

SAI offers various membership tiers tailored to professionals at various stages of their career. Whether you’re a seasoned sommelier, an industry professional, or simply passionate about beverages, there is a membership level to suit your needs:

• Sommelier Membership: This membership is specifically designed for professional sommeliers looking to expand their expertise. Members gain access to exclusive master classes, tasting events, certifications, and international competitions. With the Sommelier Membership, you can enhance your skills and represent India on the global stage.
• Professional Membership: Open to all beverage industry professionals, including bartenders, educators, and hospitality workers, this membership is perfect for those seeking to elevate their careers. It offers unparalleled networking opportunities, job listings, and discounts on educational events, keeping you connected to the latest industry trends.
• Enthusiast Membership: For those who are passionate about beverages but not necessarily professionals, the Enthusiast Membership allows members to deepen their understanding of wine and spirits. This membership provides access to specialized wine classes, networking events, and a range of insider knowledge to enjoy the world of beverages more fully.
• Company Memberships: Businesses such as restaurants, hotels, wine bars, and beverage companies can choose from Silver, Gold, or Platinum membership levels, offering a variety of benefits, including promotional opportunities, job advertisements, event sponsorships, and enhanced brand visibility within the industry.

For those passionate about advancing their career or expanding their knowledge in the industry, SAI’s membership program offers a unique platform to learn and thrive. Dates for the annual membership enrolment has begun on 25th October, 2024. To become a member and explore the full benefits, visit www.sommeliersassociationofindia.com  

In affiliation with the Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (ASI), SAI offers globally recognized certifications for sommeliers. The ASI Certification program is an internationally recognized credential designed to evaluate sommeliers’ expertise in core international knowledge. It offers two tiers of certification, helping professionals refine their skills and elevate their standing in the beverage industry. Through these certifications, SAI aims to foster a deeper understanding of wines and beverages, empowering sommeliers to serve at the highest level of excellence.

In addition to the certification program, SAI is thrilled to announce the first-ever SAI Best Sommelier of India competition. This prestigious event will be conducted in accordance with ASI’s global guidelines and is designed to spotlight India’s top sommelier talent. The winner will represent India for the first time at the 2025 ASI Contest Best Sommelier of Asia & Pacific Competition in Malaysia, an unparalleled platform for Indian sommeliers to showcase their talents on a global stage.

 “The launch of our membership program marks a significant milestone for the Sommeliers Association of India. We aim to create a dynamic and inclusive community that nurtures passion and professionalism in the beverage industry. Our goal is to empower sommeliers and enthusiasts alike with opportunities for growth, learning, and international recognition, setting new standards for excellence in India.”

Amrita Singh, Co-Founder & President, Sommeliers Association of India

 “With the Indian beverage market evolving rapidly, the need for skilled and knowledgeable sommeliers has never been greater. Through SAI, we are committed to elevating the standards of beverage service and education in India. Our membership program is designed to bring together industry professionals, share global best practices, and provide a platform where talent can thrive and shine on the world stage.”

Mattia Antonio Cianca, Co-Founder and Vice-President of the Sommeliers Association of India

SAI invites all industry professionals and beverage enthusiasts to become part of this exciting journey. Together, we will shape the future of India’s beverage industry, foster a vibrant community, and promote the art of fine beverage service.

About Sommeliers Association of India (SAI): https://sommeliersassociationofindia.com/

Founded in 2024, the Sommeliers Association of India (SAI) is a leading non-profit organisation and a proud member of the College of Applicants within the Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (ASI). Our mission is to foster a vibrant, inclusive community of wine and beverage professionals, dedicated to elevating the standards of service, education, and responsible consumption. SAI serves as a premier platform uniting sommeliers, wine, spirits, and hospitality experts with enthusiasts, creating a dynamic network for sharing knowledge and fostering collaboration. We are committed to advancing India’s reputation as a hub for wine appreciation, supporting a culture that celebrates the rich diversity of wines and promotes a deep passion for the beverage industry. In February 2024, SAI achieved a significant milestone by being unanimously voted into ASI’s College of Applicants during the ASI’s 55th anniversary celebrations. This recognition underscores our commitment to excellence and our role in shaping the future of sommelier standards globally. Our key initiatives include organising the prestigious Best Sommelier of India Competition, which serves as a stepping stone for advancing to the Best Sommelier of Asia & Pacific and the Best Sommelier of the World Competitions. With a rich history of grape cultivation dating back to 7000 BC, India’s evolving wine industry reflects its ancient heritage. SAI is dedicated to guiding and inspiring this journey, supporting the growth and appreciation of India’s wine tradition. SAI upholds a Code of Ethics that advocates for responsible alcohol consumption and ethical practices within the beverage industry, promoting integrity and respect in all our endeavours.

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