Sommeliers Choice Awards just shared that Brandon Tebbe is now part of their important judging team for the 2024 edition of their event. With an illustrious career spanning over two decades, Brandon brings a wealth of experience, passion, and expertise in the world of food, wine, and hospitality.

Brandon's journey in the culinary world has taken him through various roles in both Front of House (FOH) and Back of House (BOH) settings, ranging from casual establishments to Five Star Five Diamond restaurants. His exposure to diverse cuisines, including European, South American, and Japanese, has provided him with a well-rounded perspective on the intricate relationship between food and beverages.

In 2006, Brandon discovered his love for wine, spirits, and beer, setting him on a dedicated path to deepen his knowledge and expertise in the beverage world. His commitment to excellence was underscored when he successfully passed the prestigious Master Sommelier exam on his first attempt in 2011, a remarkable achievement that speaks volumes about his dedication and skill.

Image Source: The Institute of Masters of Wine

Currently undertaking the Masters of Wine Diploma, Brandon is a Stage 2 student, showcasing his unwavering commitment to continuous learning and mastery in the field. His impressive array of certifications includes Certified Spirits Specialist (SWE), Advanced Sake Professional (SEC), Certified Beer Server (Cicerone), WSET Advanced with Merit, International Sommelier Guild Lvl 1&2, Certified Sherry Wine Expert, and Italian Wine Ambassador with VinItaly International, among others. He is also the Head Sommelier at LPM Restaurant & Bar.

Brandon's dedication to education is a driving force in his career. He has successfully crafted and executed both consumer and employee beverage training and education programs. His extensive experience in writing, budgeting, and building wine and beverage programs underscores his ability to not only appreciate the nuances of different beverages but also to share that knowledge effectively.

Joining 2024 Sommeliers Choice Awards

Image Source: Sommeliers Choice Awards

It's delightful to have Brandon as one of the judges for the Sommeliers Choice Awards. He's got a great taste in drinks, knows a lot, and is a perfect fit for our judging team. We're excited to see which wine he thinks is the best, and we're sure it's going to be a fun and tasty experience with Brandon on board. Stay tuned as we explore the world of exceptional wines with Brandon Tebbe at the Sommeliers Choice Awards.

Here are some of the judges who will participate in the 2024 Sommeliers Choice Awards.

WAYNE BELDING MS, Master Sommelier and Partner at Preferably, Colorado

PETER GRANOFF MS, Master Sommelier, Wine Educator, Speaker, Entrepreneur, San Francisco

BRIAN KOZIOL MS, Master Sommelier at Maverick Beverage Company, Chicago

RACHEL LOWE, Director of Beverage for Levy Restaurants.

ALEXANDER POWELL MS, Master Sommelier and Senior Wine Manager at Grill 23 & Bar, Boston

LISA SELMAN CSS, Alchemy Room Beverage Director

KYUNGMOON KIM MS, Master Sommelier

VINCENT MORROW MS, Master Sommelier and Wine Director at PRESS Napa Valley, San Francisco

SERAFIN ALVARADO MSm Master Sommelier and Director of Wine Education at Southern Wine & Spirits

JEREMY SHANKER MS, Corporate Wine Director at Mina Group and Master Sommelier

SCOTT BARBER, President at Green Pin Wines

LARISSA C DUBOSE, National Director Beverages- Dining Division at Paradies Lagardère and Wine Enthusiast Magazine Future 40, Vino Volo National Buyer

BRANDON BIERLEIN, Director of Food & Beverage, Talbott Hotel Chicago

GUILLERMO BRAVO, Beverage Director at Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, Chicago

ALLISON CURATOLO, Wine Director RPM Italian Las Vegas

ANIKA ELLISON, Wine Manager, Swift & Sons Steakhouse, Chicago

KRISTIN FRANCESCO, Sommelier at Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants, Chicago

JAMIE HARRISON RUBIN, Procurement & Placements at Culinary Conservatory

COLIN HOFER, General Manager of Restaurants, Four Seasons Chicago

JENNIFER KNOTT, Director of Beverage for Levy at Chicago Symphony Orchestra

JOSH KING, Director of Food and Beverage, Virgin Hotels, Chicago

JOHN MARAFFA, Corporate Beverage Manager, Morton's The Steakhouse | Strip House Steakhouse & Cocktail Lounge | Morton's Grille

JON MCDANIEL, Founder & CEO of Ottantadu

TIFFANY TOBEY, Owner and Sommelier, Tiffany's Toast, Dallas, Texas

View the full panel of the 2024 Sommeliers Choice Awards judges here.

Looking to grow your wine brand in the on-premise channel of the USA?

The 2024 Sommeliers Choice Awards are accepting entries now. It's open for both international and domestic wines. Your entered wines will receive scores, tasting notes, and feedback from expert judges.

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Take advantage of the early bird pricing that's on till January 31, 2024. Here are the winning benefits of entering the 2024 competition and detailed steps on how to enter.

Sommeliers Choice Awards is organized by Beverage Trade Network. Beverage Trade Network (BTN) is a global media and B2B networking platform servicing suppliers, buyers, and beverage professionals in the global beverage industry. BTN also owns BevRoute, a magazine for Importers and Distributors, and runs a lineup of trade shows around the world which includes  USA Trade Tasting in New York,  IBWSS UK  in London,  and IBWSS USA  in San Francisco. Beverage Trade Network also owns and runs the London Wine Competition, London Beer Competition, London Spirits Competition, and USA Wine Ratings.