Our experts

MEET THE JUDGES

Recruited for their unrivalled expertise, the IWSC judges are at the heart of our awards

Our judges assess every glass put in front of them methodically to ensure a fair and true result, tasting and discussing each entry alongside the rest of the panel. Our panels consist of experts and influencers from every sector of the drinks trade, from buyers, importers and distributors to the specialists making and serving the drinks. View our judges below.

For more information about becoming an IWSC judge and to apply, please click here. 

Lucas Reynaud-Paligot
Lucas Reynaud-Paligot

Position: Assistant Head-Sommelier

Company: The Connaught

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Keli Rivers
Keli Rivers

Position: Sr National Brand Ambassador

Company: Sipsmith

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Caroline Roddis
Caroline Roddis

Position: Writer

Company: Freelance

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Bryan Rodriguez-Curtis
Bryan Rodriguez-Curtis

Position: Wine & Spirit Judge and Consultant

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Josh Rosenbaum
Josh Rosenbaum

Company: Glenrinnes Distillery Ltd. (Eight Lands Organic Spirits)

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Steve Rush
Steve Rush

Position: Spirits Communicator

Company: The Whisky Wire

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Derek Sandhaus
Derek Sandhaus

Position: Author and co-founder

Company: Ming River

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Bernhard Schaefer
Bernhard Schaefer

Company: European Network of Spirit Experts

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Massimo Serpelloni
Massimo Serpelloni

Position: Bar Manager

Company: Cahoots London

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Cristian Silenzi
Cristian Silenzi

Position: Head Mixologist

Company: Corinthia London

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Erik Simonics
Erik Simonics

Position: Head of Wine & Beverage

Company: Sunset Hospitality

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Sukhinder Singh
Sukhinder Singh

Position: Owner

Company: Elixir Distillers

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Aidy Smith
Aidy Smith

Position: TV Presenter, Drinks Columnist

Company: The Three Drinkers

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DavidT Smith
DavidT Smith

Position: Member of the Spirits Judging Committee

Company: Summer Fruit Cup

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Nate Sorby
Nate Sorby

Position: Consultant and Brand Ambasador

Company: Elementary Brand Consultancy

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