The International Wine Challenge is embarking on a new era under the ownership of Chris Ashton.
Now operating independently as IWC Events Limited, Ashton has announced a new leadership team of Lee Sharkey, Commercial Director; Lucy Marcuson, Events Manager; and Adriana Lyon-Shaw, Head of Digital Marketing.
Lee Sharkey previously worked as Publisher at Harpers Wine & Spirit and Drinks Retailing magazines as well as being Event Director for SITT at Agile Media.
Lucy Marcuson previously worked in events, marketing and PR for Armit Wines, Lea & Sandeman, 67 Pall Mall and The Drinks Trust.
And Adriana Lyon-Shaw has worked for Alibaba, the multinational technology company specialising in e-commerce.
“The plan is for the Challenge to continue to evolve, building on its reputation as the world’s leading wine competition,” says Ashton.
“Our vision is to expand our global reach and solidify our reputation as the ultimate benchmark for wine excellence.”
Ashton says the rigorous judging process remains at the core the competition.
“Each April, 500 judges from 40 countries convene in London to ensure that each medal winning wine is tasted 12 times, providing an unparalleled breadth of opinion.
“Our Co-Chairs Oz Clarke, Tim Atkin MW, Jamie Goode, Helen McGinn, Sam Caporn MW and Peter McCombie MW very much remain as part of the International Wine Challenge legacy ensuring the most robust judging process of any wine competition in the world.”
Another new development will be a revamped format for the annual awards dinner, designed to elevate the experience for winners, industry leaders, and guests.
Taking place on 9th September at The Guildhall in London, the 2025 event will honour the best wines, winemakers, and trade professionals shaping the global wine landscape.
Details regarding the event will be released soon, with tickets available in the coming months.
For more, visit www.internationalwinechallenge.com.
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