As part of our Meet the Judges series for the 2026 London Wine Competition, we sat down with Valeria Rodriguez, a respected figure in fine wines and prestige sales. Valeria brings a unique blend of commercial expertise, cultural appreciation, and a passion for small producers to the judging panel.

Can you tell us a little about your journey into wine?

Wine captured my imagination through its transformative process — the alchemy of turning grapes into something so expressive, layered, and full of history. Unlike other products, wine carries with it a story of land, people, and time. That deep sense of connection and transformation is what drew me in and continues to inspire me every day.

What do you enjoy most about your role as Director of Fine Wines and Prestige Sales?

For me, it’s about creating meaningful connections between producers and consumers. Fine wine isn’t just a luxury; it’s culture in a bottle. My role allows me to champion producers with heritage, authenticity, and often very personal stories. I enjoy curating portfolios that reflect both tradition and innovation — and guiding clients toward discoveries that resonate with them emotionally as well as on the palate.

Do you have a favourite UK restaurant where you enjoy exploring wine?

Yes, I really enjoy Gaia. They have an atmosphere and wine list that allow for thoughtful pairings and discovery. It’s a place where the experience of food and wine together feels curated, not just transactional.

What about wine shops — any favourites?

I don’t have a single favourite in the UK, but I’m always on the lookout for shops that go beyond the obvious names. I enjoy finding places that highlight under-the-radar producers and regions — the ones that put genuine passion into their selection.

What’s your go-to wine under £20?

I lean toward Italian wines. Italy has such a vast diversity of regions and indigenous varieties, you can always find something authentic, characterful, and excellent value at that price point.

Which wine region do you feel is underrated?

Aconcagua in Chile. It’s an extraordinary region with so much potential. The terroir there produces wines with real depth and elegance, but it hasn’t yet achieved the recognition it deserves internationally. I think in the coming years, Aconcagua will surprise a lot of people.

Looking ahead, what wine trend excites you most for 2026?

I’m very encouraged by the drive to discover small producers and unusual grapes. Consumers are becoming more adventurous and willing to step away from the mainstream. This opens the door for regions and varieties that might once have been overlooked, and it pushes the industry to keep innovating while respecting tradition.

From your perspective, what makes the London Wine Competition stand out?

Judging at the London Wine Competition is always a unique experience. The format is holistic, taking into account quality, value, and packaging. That matters, because in the real world, consumers don’t just buy what’s in the glass — they buy the story, the design, the accessibility. The competition reflects that reality, and the panel itself brings together judges with diverse expertise across trade and hospitality, making the evaluation balanced and relevant.

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Finally, what advice would you give to wineries entering the 2026 competition?

Curate the range you send and dare to be different. Sending a well-chosen set of wines shows thoughtfulness and confidence. Don’t be afraid to include something that sets you apart — originality is often what makes both judges and consumers stop, think, and remember your wine.

We are delighted to welcome Valeria Rodriguez to the 2026 judging panel. Her expertise in fine wines and her passion for spotlighting unique producers will bring an invaluable perspective to the competition. For wineries, her advice is clear: be bold, be selective, and trust your story.

Also Read:
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