The Indonesia Sommelier Association (ISA) brought together the country’s most talented wine professionals for the Indonesia Best Sommelier Competition 2025, held at Fairmont Jakarta on 20 October. This year’s event celebrated craftsmanship, precision, and passion, reaffirming Indonesia’s growing stature in the global world of wine service.
After a full day of intense challenges testing knowledge, technical skill, and service artistry, Putu Egi Krisnawan of The Apurva Kempinski Bali emerged as the national champion, earning the prestigious title of Indonesia’s Best Sommelier 2025. His victory reflects not only mastery in the glass but also the grace and composure that define the profession.
Following closely behind, Muhammad Nazmi Fadillah of Cork & Screw Jakarta claimed second place, while I Kadek Widiarta, also from The Apurva Kempinski Bali, secured third. Each finalist demonstrated exceptional talent and professionalism, representing the growing depth of expertise among Indonesia’s sommelier community.
The winners received a selection of exquisite prizes, including handcrafted items from PT. Suparma, elegant glassware from Schott Zwiesel, tools from Château Laguiole, and a fine wine from Barton & Guestier. Beyond the accolades, Egi’s title comes with an opportunity to represent Indonesia on the international stage, continuing the country’s pursuit of global recognition in wine service.
The Competition
This year’s competition introduced a new and more inclusive format, inviting ten finalists from across Indonesia — including regional chapter champions from Jakarta and Bali — to compete for the national title. The change reflects ISA’s commitment to strengthening collaboration between its chapters and providing a broader platform for talent across the archipelago.
The finalists were evaluated by a distinguished judging panel led by Singapore’s Gerald Lu, one of Asia’s leading wine educators. Former national champions and top sommeliers joined him on the panel, ensuring the highest standards of professionalism and fairness.
“The community here has evolved with discipline and an international mindset, ready to take on the global stage,” said Head Judge Gerald Lu. His remarks captured the spirit of the competition — one rooted in excellence, humility, and a deep respect for the art of wine service.
Beyond the competition, the 2025 edition also featured a new addition: a series of distributor booths and product showcases that allowed guests to explore a curated wine-tasting experience. This interactive format encouraged exchange between sommeliers, producers, and importers — a fitting reflection of ISA’s mission to bridge education with industry engagement.
“Today’s competition is not merely about winning,” said Mr. Togu Sahat, President of ISA.
“It is about embodying the values that define a sommelier — knowledge, service, humility, and dedication. These are the standards that will elevate Indonesia’s presence on the international hospitality stage.”
Since its inception in 2009, the Indonesia Best Sommelier Competition has served as the country’s leading platform for discovering and nurturing sommelier talent. Each winner carries the responsibility of representing Indonesia on the international stage, advancing the nation’s reputation within the global wine community.
Next Year, Indonesia Best Sommelier Competition will be held in Bali. For updates and future events, visit the Indonesia Sommelier Association on Instagram at @indonesiasommelierassociation.
