Britain has taken one of the top accolades in the hospitality industry as its entrant is named Chaîne des Rôtisseurs 2013 International Young Sommelier of the Year.
The Fat Duck’s Loic Avril was announced as the winner of the globally coveted award at a glittering ceremony at the French Embassy in Washington DC.
Avril beat over 10 other young sommeliers from some of the best hotels and restaurants in the world, after a gruelling final where each finalist is held to Court of Master Sommelier standards, and judged upon three key areas: theory, service, and blind taste testing.
In a close second and third place were Bobby Conroy of the Benu restaurant in San Francisco, and Jarrod Mills of Est Restaurant in Sydney, Australia.
Avril currently works at Heston Blumenthal’s Michelin starred The Fat Duck in Bray, where he was mentored for the UK competition and the International Final by Maître Sommelier, Isa Bal. He was supported on his journey by Bailli Délégué de Grande Bretagne, Philip Evins and by Janet Evins, Wessex Bailli.
“The Chaîne des Rôtisseurs Young Professionals competition is about offering our industry’s young people a platform to show their skill and receive the recognition they deserve for their hard work,” said Phillip, “Avril’s win really reflects that the UK is committed to this ethos; Chaîne GB finalists have achieved three previous wins and three second places in six years clearly showing that the training of our young people is at the very core of our industry’s development practice.
“This strong performance record also reflects the standing that establishments such as The Fat Duck have on the international stage.
“We congratulate Avril on his impressive win, and wish him the best of luck for what is likely to be a very bright future.”
As well as winning the title of International Young Sommelier, Avril takes homes 1000 euros from the Peter Jones Memorial Fund, an engraved Champagne sabre and an engraved trophy.
Chaîne des Rôtisseurs
The Chaîne des Rôtisseurs is an international gastronomic society. Founded in Paris in 1950, the society is dedicated to bringing together professional and non-professional members from around the world who appreciate wine cuisine and fine dining. Its long culinary history and tradition can be dated back to as far as 1248 and continues to be promoted today through its extensive local, national and international events. In an age of fast food culture, the Chaîne aims to sustain the appreciation of high quality food and drinks of all types and provide recognition for excellence.
The Young Chef Competition is just one of a calendar of world-renowned events hosted and promoted by the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs to encourage the aspirations of young professionals and provides a platform for them to compete with their peers. The Chaîne provides a network across over 80 countries where the spirit of camaraderie helps and welcomes travelling members.
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