Teona Tokhadze Named Georgia's Best Sommelier 2026
On 3 June, the global wine community marked International Sommelier Day, a date that commemorates the founding of the Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (ASI) in Reims, France, in 1969. Over the past five decades, ASI has played a pivotal role in advancing the sommelier profession and establishing international standards, helping transform sommeliers into key figures within the modern hospitality and wine industries.
The origins of the profession, however, date back much further. During the Middle Ages, sommeliers were responsible for transporting and safeguarding valuable goods and supplies. By the late 18th century, particularly in France, the role evolved significantly, with sommeliers becoming specialists in wine selection, service, cellar management, and guest consultation.
Today, sommeliers serve as vital ambassadors of wine culture. Their expertise extends beyond restaurant service to include wine list development, food and wine pairing, professional tasting, wine education, and guiding consumers through increasingly diverse wine offerings.
International Sommelier Day was also celebrated in Georgia, where the final stage of the “Best Sommelier of Georgia 2026” competition took place on 3 June. Three finalists competed for the prestigious title: Rezi Tsetskhladze, Theona Tokhadze, and Luka Soselia.
Following a series of theoretical, practical, and tasting challenges designed to assess professional knowledge and skills, Theona Tokhadze was named Best Sommelier of Georgia 2026.
The competition highlighted the growing professionalism of Georgia’s wine sector and the increasing importance of sommeliers in promoting wine culture both locally and internationally.
Events marking International Sommelier Day, together with professional competitions, continue to play an important role in raising awareness of the profession, encouraging excellence, and supporting the next generation of wine professionals.
