The Sommelier of the Year Award recognizes working sommeliers who consistently demonstrate an outstanding passion for marrying wine with food and a dedication to exceptional service.
2025 Sommelier of the Year
Andrew Forsyth, Head Sommlier, L’Abattoir
This year’s winner, Andrew Forsyth, Head Sommlier, L’Abattoir, was selected through a hands-on competition organized by the BC Chapter of the Canadian Association of Professional Sommeliers. As Sommelier of the Year, Andrew receives Delta Air Lines vouchers valued at $2,000 from the festival.
Past winners include:
- Ian Casterton, 2024
- Kelcie Jones, 2023
- Jayton Paul, 2022
- Peter Van de Reep – 2020
- Matthew Landry – 2019
- Sean Nelson – 2018
- Shane Taylor – 2017
- Alistair Veen – 2016)
- Jason Yamasaki – 2015)
- Mike Bernardo – 2014)
- Samantha Rahn – 2013)
- Terry Threlfall – 2012)
- Owen Knowlton – 2011)
- Kurtis Kolt – 2010)
- Andrea Vescovi – 2009)
- Neil Ingram – 2008
- Chris Van Nus – 2007
- Sebastien Le Goff – 2006
- Tom Doughty – 2005
- Mark Taylor – 2004
- Barb Philip MW – 2003
- Peter Bodnar Rod – 2002
- Mark Davidson – 2001
- Brent Hayman – 2000
