UKSA Partners with New Zealand Wine for the Ultimate Sommelier Scholarship!
We are thrilled to announce an exciting new partnership with New Zealand Winegrowers! We have teamed up to find the next star talent to win the prestigious 2027 New Zealand Wine Sommelier Scholarship.
If you are a passionate UK-based sommelier looking to elevate your career and expand your palate, this is the opportunity of a lifetime.
What is the New Zealand Wine Sommelier Scholarship?
Launched in 2015, this global initiative has hosted over 123 sommeliers from 18 countries. It offers dedicated wine professionals an immersive journey into the regions, varieties, landscapes, and personalities that make New Zealand wine so unique.
There is only one exclusive spot available for a UK sommelier this year. As part of our partnership, UKSA will be directly involved in the search and selection process to find the perfect candidate.
The Prize: What's Included?
This is a fully-funded, all-inclusive career milestone. The scholarship package covers:
All Flights & Transport: International and domestic flights, transfers, and transport.
Full Hospitality: All accommodation, meals, event registrations, and event inclusions.
Sommit™ 2027 (22–23 January 2027): An exclusive, intensive event held in the Waitaki Valley. Hosted by New Zealand wine authorities Cameron Douglas MS and Stephen Wong MW, this event is designed exclusively around sommelier interests, exploring the lesser-known gems of New Zealand wine.
Sauvignon Blanc New Zealand 2027 (2–4 February 2027): Attendance at this major event in Wairau Marlborough.
Regional Tastings: Extra wine experiences and regional tours across the country.
Don't just take our word for it... Tom Fahey (The Terrace at Ventnor), winner of the 2025 scholarship, says:
"The Sommit trip is a massive eye-opener... This opportunity actually changed my entire approach to buying and drove the approach that allowed me to win Best Single Site On Trade Buyer at The LWF Wine Buyers Awards this year."
Do You Qualify?
To apply, candidates must meet the following criteria:
Be a working sommelier: Defined as a floor sommelier, or someone with direct responsibility/management of on-premise wine lists (consultants welcome!).
Travel Window: You must be fully available to travel to New Zealand from 21 January 2027 to 5 February 2027.
Give Back: You must be able and willing to present a New Zealand wine session (organised by New Zealand Winegrowers) upon your return to the UK.
How to Apply
Applications are officially open! If you have a strong passion for the wine industry and a keen interest in developing your knowledge of New Zealand wine, we want to hear from you.
Application Deadline:30 June 2026
Don’t miss out on the chance to become a global ambassador for New Zealand wine. Apply today!
