What does it take to become the ASI Best Sommelier of the World?
In this episode of A Sommelier's Insight host Mark DeWolf speaks with Sweden's Andreas Larsson, ASI Best Sommelier of the World 2007, about his unconventional journey from chef and musician to the pinnacle of international sommellerie.

Larsson reflects on the disciplined preparation, mental focus and trusted team that carried him to victory, and how the competition and sommellerie in general transformed an introvert into a confident speaker and global wine authority.
They also explore the evolution of the sommelier profession, the growing strength of competitors beyond Europe’s traditional wine nations and what audiences can expect when the world’s finest sommeliers gather in Lisbon this October.

As part of a series of podcasts titled "The Road to Lisbon" featuring interviews with past ASI Contest Best Sommelier of the World winners, we interview Raimonds Tomsons about what it takes to become a champion.
Raimonds Tomsons is the reigning winner ASI Best Sommelier of the World. His victory came in front of thousands of people watching live and tens of thousands watching online at the 2023 ASI Contest Best Sommelier of the World held in Paris, France.
Raimonds’ victory in Paris was the culmination of years of study, disciplined practice and experience on the competition stage. Yet, as he reveals, his success was shaped just as much by mindset: arriving calm and confident, accepting that his preparation was complete, and allowing himself to enjoy the moment.
In our conversation, Raimonds reflects on the pressures of competition, the importance of making technique instinctive and why a candidate must leave mistakes behind and remain present. Above all, he reminds us that even under the brightest lights, that sommellerie is still about hospitalit It is about connecting with guests, showing personality and making people feel welcome. Discover more in this episode of A Sommelier's Insight podcast: The Road to Lisbon, Making a Champion with Raimonds Tomsons.

In this episode of A Sommelier’s Insight we continue a series titled the Road to Lisbon with Paolo Basso, ASI Best Sommelier of the World 2013.
After 18 years of competition, winning the title brought Paolo both joy and a sense of liberation. It also marked the beginning of a new chapter and a broader perspective on what the profession needs to become.
In this episode, The Evolving Role of the Sommelier, we explore why knowledge alone is no longer enough. Paolo challenges sommeliers to think critically, look beyond persuasive wine stories and become as skilled at selling wine as they are at selecting it. We discuss understanding guests, building loyalty and demonstrating the value of a sommelier everywhere from a neighbourhood wine bar to a fine-dining restaurant.He also shares his thoughts on making wine less intimidating, connecting with younger consumers and approaching competition as preparation for a stronger career. Here’s my conversation with Paolo Basso.