At the London Wine Competition, every score comes from real trade decision-makers—the same people who list wines in Michelin-starred restaurants, stock iconic retailers, and influence buying trends across the industry. We asked them why the competition stands out and for their best advice to wineries preparing to enter.

Meet the Judges & Their Advice

Georgios Iordanidis – Head of Wine at Annabel’s

As Head of Wine at one of London’s most exclusive private members’ clubs, Georgios curates a list that blends rare vintages with commercially successful wines. His role involves balancing prestige and profitability, ensuring that every bottle poured meets the high expectations of Annabel’s members.

Why LWC Stands Out: “Great panel of people, very experienced and knowledgeable about the wine industry. It’s a competition judged by professionals who understand both quality and market needs.”

Advice: “Send the most interesting wines you’ve got.”

Georgios looks for authenticity and distinction—wines with a story to tell and a personality that makes them memorable to discerning customers.

Maria Boumpa – Wine Director & Restaurant Manager at Da Terra and UK’s Best Sommelier

At the helm of the wine program for London’s two-Michelin-starred Da Terra, Maria ensures every pairing elevates the restaurant’s ambitious tasting menus. Her buying decisions are guided by harmony, creativity, and a deep understanding of how wines perform in a fine-dining environment. Maria Boumpa also won UK’s best sommelier award and here is what she had to say.

Why LWC Stands Out: “The London Wine Competition is unique in its holistic approach—considering not just quality but also value for money and packaging. It mirrors real buying decisions.”

Advice: “Showcase your wine as a complete package—ensure quality, value, and packaging are all aligned.”

Maria values wines that combine technical excellence with strong branding and storytelling—because in hospitality, presentation is as critical as taste.

Angelo Lorea – Head of Wine at The Roof Gardens

Overseeing the wine program at The Roof Gardens, Angelo balances an exciting, trend-aware list with wines that deliver profitability and guest satisfaction. His experience spans luxury hospitality and high-volume venues, giving him a sharp eye for commercial winners.

Why LWC Stands Out: “An established competition that can add visibility and market positioning to your wine.”

Advice: “Choose wines at peak drinkability for judging.”

Angelo believes timing is everything—sending a wine at its optimal stage ensures it shows balance, character, and drinkability when it matters most.

Bianca Ford – Operations Director at Yapp Brothers Ltd

Bianca manages operations for one of the UK’s most respected specialist wine merchants, known for championing distinctive producers and lesser-known regions. Her perspective bridges the retail and wholesale markets, with a focus on building lasting customer loyalty.

Why LWC Stands Out: “Great group of judges with different backgrounds and skills. The panel reflects the diversity of the trade.”

Advice: “Know your market.”

For Bianca, success hinges on understanding your wine’s audience—knowing exactly where it fits in the marketplace and positioning it accordingly.

Tim Triptree MW – International Director, Wines & Spirits at Christie’s

A Master of Wine and global fine wine auctioneer, Tim handles some of the most prestigious and rare bottles in the world. His market knowledge spans both collectible and on-trade wines, giving him unique insight into long-term value and current demand.

Why LWC Stands Out: “Very professionally run with a very high calibre of judges. The process ensures that the winners truly deserve their medals.”

Advice: “Go for it!”

Tim encourages wineries not to hesitate—competitions like LWC provide valuable benchmarking, exposure, and market validation that can open doors worldwide.

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Five Judge-Backed Tips for Success

1. Think Like a Buyer, Not Just a Winemaker – Ask: Would I list this wine? Will my customers buy it?

2. Treat Packaging as Part of the Product – A great wine needs a strong first impression.

3. Deliver Value at Every Price Point – Whether £10 or £100, overdeliver on expectations.

4. Enter at the Right Time – Submit wines at peak drinkability to ensure their best showing.

5. Know Your Audience – Be clear about where your wine fits in the market and price it accordingly.

Final Word from the Panel

“Winning a medal at the London Wine Competition means your wine has proven itself in the three areas that matter most to the trade: Quality, Value, and Packaging. Enter with a wine you’d proudly pour, confidently price, and beautifully present.”

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