The Sommeliers Choice Awards (SCA) has announced three exceptional additions to its 2026 judging panel, reflecting the competition’s continued commitment to recognizing wines that excel in the real-world context of restaurants, hotels, and bars.

Joining this year’s esteemed panel are Heather Durham-Birley, Brand Manager at Winesellers Ltd.; Kat Hawkins, Wine Director at Tre Dita, Miru, and The St. Regis Chicago; and Greg Spalding, Advanced Sommelier and mentor with Second City Sommeliers. Each brings a unique perspective — from brand strategy and education to hospitality leadership and sommelier mentorship — that embodies the values of the Sommeliers Choice Awards.

Heather Durham-Birley – Brand Strategist, Educator & Wine Leader

Based in Chicago, Heather Durham-Birley is both a respected educator and a driving force in brand development. She holds an MBA in Wine & Spirits Business from the Burgundy School of Business and the WSET Diploma (Level 4).

As Brand Manager at Winesellers Ltd., a family-owned importer recognized as Importer of the Year by both Wine & Spirits and Wine Enthusiast magazines, Heather plays a central role in shaping the company’s strategic vision and marketing programs across an international portfolio. She collaborates on brand planning, category analysis, and national initiatives while organizing supplier visits, tastings, and promotional events.

Beyond her corporate role, Heather co-founded the Traverse Wine Institute in Michigan, where she teaches WSET Levels 1–3 and leads blind-tasting coaching. Her dual expertise in trade strategy and education makes her a valuable addition to the SCA panel, blending technical precision with a deep understanding of market performance.

Kat Hawkins – Hospitality Visionary & Wine Director

Kat Hawkins joins the 2026 panel as one of Chicago’s most dynamic wine directors. Currently overseeing the wine programs at Tre Dita, Miru, and The St. Regis Bar at the St. Regis Chicago, Kat brings a guest-focused philosophy shaped by years of experience leading some of the city’s top beverage teams.

A Certified Sommelier with the Court of Master Sommeliers and a Certified Specialist of Wine & Spirits, Kat has also been recognized by Wine & Spirits Magazine as one of America’s “Best New Sommeliers.” Her previous roles include Wine Director at RPM Steak, where she managed a 1,300-bottle list, and Beverage Director at Wright & Company in Detroit.

Kat’s work exemplifies the SCA’s on-premise philosophy: wines must not only taste exceptional but also enhance the dining experience. Her eye for pairing, stylistic balance, and restaurant relevance ensures that entries are evaluated through a truly service-driven lens.

Greg Spalding – Advanced Sommelier & Mentor

Greg Spalding, an Advanced Sommelier with the Court of Master Sommeliers, Americas, rounds out this trio of accomplished professionals. A cornerstone of Chicago’s wine community, Greg is actively involved with Second City Sommeliers, an organization dedicated to mentoring wine professionals in tasting, service, and beverage knowledge.

Greg’s judging philosophy centers on precision, structure, and authenticity — qualities he has refined through 15 years in the industry. His enthusiasm for Italian wines, especially Chianti Classico, informs his appreciation for typicity and terroir expression. When not immersed in wine, Greg spends time with his dog Winnie, cat Zelda, and plays drums in a rock band — proof that balance matters both in life and in the glass.

For sommeliers, educators, and on-trade professionals, the addition of Heather Durham-Birley, Kat Hawkins, and Greg Spalding to the 2026 Sommeliers Choice Awards judging panel represents the continued evolution of wine evaluation through a hospitality-first lens. 

Each brings a unique perspective shaped by years of experience in the restaurant and wine industry — from building award-winning wine programs and mentoring future sommeliers to driving brand growth and consumer engagement. Their collective expertise underscores what the Sommeliers Choice Awards and Sommelier Business both stand for: celebrating wines that deliver not just technical excellence, but emotional resonance and real-world success on the restaurant floor.

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Shaping the 2026 Sommeliers Choice Awards

The 2026 Sommeliers Choice Awards will be held in Chicago on May 18, 2026, with winners announced on June 10, 2026. The competition continues to champion wines that deliver quality, value, food pairability, typicity, and packaging excellence — the elements that drive success on the restaurant floor.

By welcoming Heather Durham-Birley, Kat Hawkins, and Greg Spalding, SCA reaffirms its commitment to assembling a panel that represents the real voices of the industry — the sommeliers, buyers, and educators who understand what truly resonates with today’s guests.

Wineries seeking to gain valuable on-trade feedback and visibility among leaders like Heather Durham-Birley, Kat Hawkins, and Greg Spalding are invited to enter the 2026 Sommeliers Choice Awards.

Enter before October 31, 2025, to take advantage of Super Early Bird pricing and ensure your wines are evaluated by some of the most respected professionals in the trade.

Also Read:
Heather Durham-Birley Joins 2026 Sommeliers Choice Awards Judging Panel
Kat Hawkins Joins 2026 Sommeliers Choice Awards Judging Panel
Greg Spalding Joins 2026 Sommeliers Choice Awards Judging Panel