For wine producers aiming to make an impression in the UK or global markets, the London Wine Competition (LWC) is an essential platform. Winning here is about more than just collecting a medal; it’s about opening doors to new opportunities in one of the most competitive wine markets. To understand what it takes to stand out at the LWC, we spoke with Adriana Valentini, a distinguished wine judge and sommelier.

A Journey Through Wine: Meet Adriana Valentini

Adriana’s passion for wine blossomed during her extensive travels over the past 20 years. Born and raised in Milan, Italy, she was introduced to the world of wine through her family and further developed her expertise after earning her Diploma in Wine with the Italian Sommelier Association (AIS). Adriana’s career took her from working in Michelin-starred restaurants in Milan to some of London’s most prestigious venues, including The Corinthia Hotel and the Oxford and Cambridge Club. Fluent in English, Spanish, and German, Adriana relocated to Italy in January 2024, where she now works as a Wine Consultant between Italy and the UK. She has recently been appointed as Group Wine Manager and Wine Buyer for Triple Sea Food, a luxury hospitality holding in Milan’s Brera District.

Why Enter the London Wine Competition?

For Adriana, becoming a wine judge was a natural progression, a culmination of her deep interest in wine and her accumulated skills. She values the London Wine Competition for its holistic approach to judging wines, where quality, value for money, and packaging are all considered. "Wineries and wine brands should enter the LWC because it doesn’t just judge wines on quality alone," she explains. "The competition also focuses on value and packaging, which are crucial in a market as competitive as the UK."

Adriana Judging with her panel at LWC 2024

The Impact of Winning at the LWC

Winning a medal at the LWC can significantly boost a brand’s credibility. Adriana emphasizes that an LWC award is more than just recognition—it’s a powerful endorsement from some of the industry’s top professionals. "A medal from the LWC can work wonders for your brand," she says. "It signals to the market that your wine offers something truly special."

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What Do LWC Judges Look For?

When judging at the LWC, Adriana evaluates wines based on three key factors: quality, value, and packaging. She highlights the importance of balance, complexity, and typicity in determining wine quality, while also considering the wine's price point and presentation. "Wine packaging is one of the biggest sustainability issues currently facing the sector," she notes, emphasizing the importance of standing out on the shelf with eye-catching designs.

Judges discussing scores at London Wine Competition 2024

Emerging Trends in the UK Wine Market

Adriana has observed several trends in the UK wine market, including a growing interest in wines from Portugal and Greece. She also notes that UK consumers are increasingly drawn to wines with unique stories, indigenous grape varieties, and sustainable practices. "There’s a willingness among UK customers to step outside their comfort zones and explore new regions and styles," she says.

Advice for New and Emerging Wine Brands

For those looking to break into the UK market, Adriana advises focusing on both the quality of the wine and the design of the packaging. "In such a competitive landscape, your wine needs to taste great and look appealing," she says. She also recommends aligning your product with current consumer trends, particularly in sustainability and innovative packaging.

Adriana Valentini’s Wine Recommendations

Adriana has a particular fondness for wines from the Mosel region in Germany, especially Rieslings. "One European wine region that I love and would recommend is Mosel," she says. "Try the Heymann-Löwenstein Stolzenberg GG 2022 Riesling—it’s fresh, charming, and pairs beautifully with grilled shrimp or a citrus vinaigrette salad."

London Wine Competition Judges 2024

If you’re serious about making your wine stand out, don’t miss the opportunity to enter the London Wine Competition. Register by 31st August to take advantage of the super early bird pricing. This is your chance to showcase your wine to a panel of expert judges like Adriana Valentini and potentially make a significant impact in the UK market and beyond. Enter today!

Header Image: Adriana Valentini judging at London Wine Competition 2024