Sommeliers from the top hotels and restaurants across the globe have recently competed in the WOSA Sommelier World Cup 2013 in South Africa.

Semi-finals were held in 10 countries to determine which of the entrants from each country would compete in the final. The 12 finalists were hosted in South Africa enjoying a fully paid week-long tour of the Winelands. They visited each of the major winemaking regions, met the winemakers and tasted their top wines, all while enjoying warm hospitality and dining in iconic restaurants with a diverse range of cuisines to sample.

The tour showcased the best that South Africa has to offer and culminated in Paarl at the Grande Roche, where a series of theoretical and practical examinations were held to whittle down the contestants to the three that would compete on-stage in the grand finale.

Creation was lucky enough to meet the contestants at a number of events before the final. This included a tasting of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay held to showcase the Hemel-en-Aarde producers. Having enjoyed their company we got to know them better over the course of their tour and was delighted to attend the grand finale to show our support.