Wine Australia has announced the winners of its inaugural UK and Ireland trade competition, with six sommeliers and on-trade buyers set to visit Australia’s wine regions in November 2026.
The winners are Tom Fahey, managing director of The Terrace Rooms & Wine, Isle of Wight;Seoridh Fraser, GM and beverage director at Heron, Edinburgh; Freddie Johnson, head sommelier at The Ledbury, London; Elisa Marchini, head sommelier at Muse by Tom Aikens, London; Patrycja Szpiech, head of wine at Restaurant Sat Bains, Nottingham; and Leo Vasileiou, director at Stack A Restaurant & Urban Brewing, Dublin.
Between the 4th and 16th of November, they will tour seven wine regions across Australia, hosted by Wine Australia’s Emma Symington MW, covering Margaret River in Western Australia; Mornington Peninsula, Geelong, Macedon Ranges and Yarra Valley in Victoria; and Barossa Valley and Eden Valley in South Australia.
Wine Australia’s regional general manager UK/EMEA Laura Jewell MW, said that the competition was a new initiative to attract the on-trade and independent off-trade to their trade tastings and to the Australian wine category.
“Restaurants, bars and independent merchants play a key role in encouraging consumers to try new wines and helping them to explore the incredible quality and diversity of premium Australian wine.
“By reminding sommeliers and buyers about our vibrant Australian wine scene, we can build understanding, affinity, and preference for Australian wine.”
The winners’ trip itinerary will offer a diverse range of wine, food and tourism experiences, from an old vine masterclass, cool-climate Chardonnay tasting and biodynamics session to a beach barbecue, underground cave tour and close encounters with local wildlife.
The group will meet winemakers, visit wineries, explore vineyards, and taste the latest vintages and emerging styles.
Jewell added: “We’re looking forward to showcasing our exceptional wine and food offering, the adventurous spirit of our people and natural wonder of our lands.”
Ireland’s Vasileiou, whose Stack A Restaurant & Urban Brewing is a 450-seat venue combining a restaurant, three bars and an on-site brewery, said that the the trip was an opportunity of a lifetime that would help increase Australia’s presence across the business’s 600+ beverage list.
“Visiting a wine region creates a lasting connection – you don’t just experience it, you become a lifetime ambassador for its wines, its people, and its story. I can’t wait!”
