Applications for US-based sommeliers will open in May 2026
Applicants must be:
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A working sommelier*
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Able to travel to New Zealand from 21 January 2027 to 5 February 2027
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Able to present a New Zealand wine session (organised by New Zealand Winegrowers) upon return
The scholarship includes:
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Attendance at the Sommit™ in Waitaki Valley (22-23 January 2027)
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Attendance at Sauvignon Blanc New Zealand in Wairau Marlborough (2-4 February 2027)
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Wine experiences and tastings in regions across New Zealand
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International and domestic flights, accommodation, meals, transfers, event registrations and all event inclusions
For any queries with regard to the scholarships available from the USA, please contact New Zealand Winegrowers USA Market Manager, Ranit Librach – ranit.librach@nzwine.com.
*For the purpose of this scholarship and Sommit™, a working sommelier is defined as:
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A person with contribution to/responsibility for/management of on-premise wine lists, either at their place of employment or on a consultant basis and/or
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A person who works the floor as a sommelier
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Having roles in other areas of the wine trade or media is acceptable
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There are two scholarships available from the US