ONE YEAR, 200 MEMBERS, AND A VISION FOR THE FUTURE — THE RISE OF Sommeliers Association of India (SAI)

Mumbai, 19th November 2025, In just one transformative year, the Sommeliers Association of India (SAI) has redefined the future of wine education and hospitality in India, bringing global standards, international certifications, and a growing network of passionate professionals under one national banner.

Since its memberships launch in October 2024, SAI has grown to over 200 members, hosted India’s first-ever SAI Best Sommelier Competition, and introduced the Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (ASI) certifications and diploma programmes in India, for the very first time.

India Joins the Global Sommelier Stage

SAI’s international debut came in February 2024 when Co-Founder and President Amrita Singh presented India’s vision at the ASI 55th Anniversary and General Assembly in Monaco, where India was unanimously voted as a Member of ASI’s College of Applicants.

This milestone positioned India for the first time among the world’s recognised sommelier associations, creating a local platform that connects Indian professionals with the highest global standards in wine education, service, and competition.

“From the moment we stood before the ASI Executive Board in Monaco, our mission was clear, to build a platform that delivers rigorous education, real career pathways, and international exposure for Indian sommeliers,” said Amrita Singh, President, Sommeliers Association of India. “This first year proved that with focus, community, and collaboration, India can raise service standards, celebrate its culinary diversity, and compete confidently on the world stage.”

Milestones That Defined SAI’s First Year

· 2025 SAI Best Sommelier of India: Jai Singh crowned India’s first national winner, who represented India at the 2025 ASI Contest Best Sommelier of Asia & Pacific in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and confirmed as the official Indian candidate for the 2026 ASI Contest Best Sommelier of the World in Lisbon, Portugal.

· Global Education: Hosting India’s first ASI Diploma and ASI Certification Level 1, and sending five Indian sommeliers to the ASI Bootcamp in Singapore.

· National Engagement: Launch of the Sommelier of the Month programme and the soon to be launched SAI Job Board and Travel Board.

· Global Partnerships: Strategic collaborations with JancisRobinson.com, JaneAnson.com, GuildSomm, California Wines, Sonal Holland Wine Academy and Food Matters Group connecting India’s community to world-class educational resources.

A New Generation of Indian Sommeliers

SAI’s leadership brings together some of the most recognised names in international wine education and service: Amrita Singh (Co-Founder & President), Mattia Antonio Cianca (Co-Founder & Vice President), Salvatore Castano (Co-Founder & Vice President), and Vinod Abrol (Co-Founder & Vice President).

Together, they have built a platform rooted in education, integrity, and inclusion, creating opportunities for sommeliers, bartenders, and enthusiasts across India’s fast-growing hospitality landscape.

A Vision for the Future

SAI continues to expand its member benefits and partnerships, aiming to host ASI Certification Level 2 and the ASI Diploma 2026 in India, while developing a national mentorship and scholarship programme for emerging professionals.

“This is just the beginning,” said Mattia Antonio Cianca, Co-Founder and Vice President of SAI. “We are shaping a generation of Indian sommeliers who will not only serve with skill and knowledge but represent India as part of the global dialogue on wine, hospitality, and culture.”

About the Sommeliers Association of India (SAI)

Founded in 2024, the Sommeliers Association of India (SAI) is a non-profit organisation building a vibrant and inclusive community of sommeliers, hospitality professionals, and wine enthusiasts. As India’s official representative to the Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (ASI), SAI delivers global-standard education, certification, and competition, while promoting responsible consumption and professional excellence.

Through partnerships with leading international institutions, national competitions, and member services, SAI is shaping India’s presence in the world of wine, one glass at a time.