A Cultural Revival of Indian Hospitality

🇮🇳 India Makes Its Mark at ASI Bootcamp 2025 in Singapore

Five Indian sommeliers represent the nation for the first time at one of the world’s most prestigious wine training bootcamps.

Indian Hospitality Bureau

8/1/2025

India has officially entered the global sommelier arena. At the ASI Bootcamp Asia & Pacific 2025 held in Singapore, five Indian sommeliers participated in the prestigious three-day training programme organised by the Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (ASI). This marks the first-ever representation of India at the bootcamp and a significant step forward for the country's wine community. Facilitated by the Sommeliers Association of India (SAI) India’s first nonprofit sommelier organisation this milestone reflects a powerful shift. It’s not just a win for the five individuals who made the journey; it’s a defining moment for India’s place on the global wine map. “Watching our sommeliers represent India at the ASI Bootcamp for the first time was a proud and emotional moment,” said Amrita Singh, Co-Founder & President, SAI. “This is not just a personal victory it is a professional milestone for Indian hospitality and wine culture.” Representing India: Jai Singh – Winner, SAI Best Sommelier of India 2025 | ASI Diploma Gold; Pankaj Singh – 2nd Place | ASI Diploma Bronze | Advanced Sommelier CMS; Amber Deshmukh – 3rd Place; Savio Cardoza – Semi-Finalist; Karan Patyal – Quarter-Finalist. Held from July 1–4, 2025, the ASI Bootcamp is a non-competitive but intense training experience featuring wine list creation, blind tastings, masterclasses, and service drills conducted by globally acclaimed Masters of Wine and Master Sommeliers. More than skills, each participant came back with deeper clarity, mentorship, and international camaraderie critical ingredients in India's evolving wine journey.

Voices from the Ground: “Every moment was valuable from curating impactful wine lists to planning our study journey better.” – Jai; “Blind tastings with global experts were unforgettable.” – Pankaj; “This helped me understand exactly where and how to improve.” – Amber; “Structured, high-level learning gave me a fresh perspective.” – Savio; “It was a powerhouse of knowledge and confidence.” – Karan. About SAI – Driving India’s Wine Evolution: Founded in 2024, the Sommeliers Association of India (SAI) is a non-profit aiming to professionalise and nurture India’s beverage talent. With its unanimous induction into ASI’s College of Applicants, SAI now serves as a bridge to the global stage for Indian sommeliers. Among its signature initiatives is the SAI Best Sommelier of India Competition, which acts as a launchpad for Indian talent to enter the ASI international contests. Through world-class exposure, ethical training, and community-building, SAI is helping India’s ancient wine history dating back to 7000 BC reconnect with a bold new future. Visit: https://sommeliersassociationofindia.com

Jai Singh, Pankaj Singh, Amber Deshmukh, Savio Cardoza, Karan Patyal