Entries open for Champagne Ambassadors

The Champagne Bureau is calling on the UK’s top sommeliers, wine educators and wine experts to submit their names for the ninth edition of the Champagne Ambassadors’ Awards.

For the first time, this year also allows nominations as the UK seeks to continue its previous representatives’ successful record in the competition, which is open to a nine European countries.

In addition to measuring individuals’ Champagne expertise, the awards aim to recognise and reward those who dedicate their lives to sharing a knowledge and passion for wine.

This year’s theme covers “the singular nature of the Champagne region”, with judges looking for candidates to communicate how consistency and diversity can both align to create a wine that is unique.

UK entries and nominations close on 7 July 2013, with the UK final due to be held on 16 September. The winner will receive a bespoke “behind the scenes” five day trip to Champagne with the chance to meet key figures in the industry, before competing in the European final against winners from other countries, followed by a gala dinner for all participants.

Last year’s competition saw Gido van Imschoot emerge victorious after a presentation on the impact of ageing wines in oak and stainless steel. In 2009 the UK claimed top prize thanks to its ambassador that year, Richard Bampfield MW.

Potential candidates can register online at www.ambassadeurschampagne.com, while nominations are invited via email at champagneambassadors@peretti.com.