The Association of Sommeliers International (ASI) announced the winner of the ASI Competition Best Sommelier of Europe, Africa and the Middle East 2024 to the Estonian Mikk Parre. The announcement was made last November 15 in Belgrade (Serbia), this year’s venue for this competition that began on November 11 and attracted an audience of sommeliers, wine professionals and fans, all interested to witness this prestigious competition.
As the competition progressed towards the final stage, the excitement among the crowd became more and more palpable. With each announcement of the semi-finalists, the anticipation grew. Only three would make it to the finals, which added to the tension and excitement, while recognizing the hard work and dedication of each of the contestants. For many, getting to Belgrade was not an easy task; it was the result of a long and demanding journey that began with a national title and culminated in this prestigious international stage.
The tension came to a head when the semi-finalists were whittled down to four. Of these, only three would secure a place in the final. When Denmark’s Jonathan Gouveia was announced as the fourth runner-up, an air of relief and joy came over the three remaining finalists: Estonia’s Mikk Parre, France’s Pascaline Lepeltier and Lithuania’s Martynas Pravilonis. The three then proceeded to hold a draw to determine the order in which they would compete in the grand final. It was Mikk Parre’s turn to open the competition.
Faced with a series of demanding tests, the finalists demonstrated their skill, precision and ability to maintain their manners under pressure. Each exhibited exceptional knowledge, remarkable tasting prowess and impeccable service, reflecting the talent and passion that define the sommelier profession.
After several intense tests, Martynas Pravilonis was announced as the second finalist, leaving the two remaining candidates in a final and exciting wait. Finally, amid shouts and applause, William Wouters, President of the ASI, took to the stage to announce the winner: the lucky one who would receive the title of Best Sommelier of Europe, Africa and the Middle East 2024.
William Wouters, President of the ASI, commented: “This competition is a true celebration of our candidates’ exceptional skills and commitment to the world of wine. Serbia’s rich culture and hospitality provided the ideal setting for this event and created a memorable experience for all participants. We are very proud that Mikk Parre was our winner. Mikk epitomizes the excellence, integrity and passion that ASI stands for, and we are confident that he will be an excellent ambassador for the global sommelier community.”
