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The Decanter World Wine Awards (DWWA), one of the most influential and prestigious wine competitions globally, has announced the appointment of award-winning Argentinian sommelier Paz Levinson as its Resident Co-Chair for the 2027 edition. This significant appointment, effective for a one-year term, underscores DWWA’s commitment to integrating diverse, world-class expertise into its leadership structure, following the introduction of the Resident Co-Chair role in 2026. Ms. Levinson, currently serving as Executive Head Sommelier (Cheffe Sommelière Exécutive) at the three-Michelin-starred Maison Pic in Valence, France, brings an unparalleled depth of knowledge, international experience, and a distinguished competitive record to this pivotal position. Her tenure is anticipated to further enhance the awards’ global perspective, particularly in spotlighting emerging wine regions and diverse viticultural traditions.
A Landmark Appointment for Global Wine Evaluation
The Resident Co-Chair position at the Decanter World Wine Awards is a relatively new but strategically important role, designed to bring fresh perspectives and specialized regional expertise to the forefront of the judging process. Introduced in 2026 with Caro Maurer MW as its inaugural holder, the role rotates annually among DWWA’s established Regional Chairs, ensuring a dynamic and evolving leadership team. As Resident Co-Chair, Ms. Levinson will play a crucial role in overseeing the extensive judging panels, contributing to the strategic direction of the awards, and upholding the rigorous standards for which DWWA is renowned. Her responsibilities will encompass guiding the tasting panels, ensuring consistency in evaluation, and providing high-level input on the overall integrity and innovation of the competition.
This appointment is particularly notable given Ms. Levinson’s unique professional trajectory, which seamlessly bridges the New World and Old World wine cultures. Her expertise spans the vibrant terroirs of South America, particularly her native Argentina, and the historic vineyards of France, a duality that promises to enrich the DWWA’s assessment of wines from across the globe. The Decanter World Wine Awards, celebrating its 24th year in 2027, has consistently grown in scale and influence, attracting over 18,000 entries from more than 50 countries annually. The calibre of its judging panel, comprising Masters of Wine, Master Sommeliers, and leading regional experts, is a cornerstone of its credibility, and the addition of Ms. Levinson to its core leadership team reinforces this commitment to excellence.
Paz Levinson: A Journey of Excellence in Wine
Paz Levinson’s ascent to one of the wine world’s most esteemed positions is a testament to her relentless dedication, prodigious palate, and profound intellectual curiosity. Her journey began in her native Argentina, where she cultivated a passion for wine that would define her career.
Argentinian Roots and Formative Years
Ms. Levinson’s early career was marked by rapid progression within Argentina’s burgeoning fine dining scene. She held head sommelier positions at several top restaurants, including the acclaimed Restó, where she helped shape the wine programs that complemented the country’s innovative culinary landscape. Her formal education in wine commenced at the Centro Argentino de Vinos y Espirituosas (CAVE), a leading institution for wine education in Latin America, where she earned her professional sommelier diploma in 2006. Her academic prowess was evident early on, leading her to teach at CAVE for five years, nurturing the next generation of Argentinian wine professionals. This period not only solidified her foundational knowledge but also honed her communication and educational skills, qualities that are invaluable in her new DWWA role.
Alongside her rigorous wine studies, Ms. Levinson pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Literature, a pursuit that, while seemingly divergent, has profoundly influenced her approach to wine. Her literary background is often cited as providing her with a unique analytical framework, a nuanced appreciation for narrative and context, and a precise vocabulary for describing the complex sensory experience of wine. This interdisciplinary approach has distinguished her in a field that increasingly values holistic understanding. A significant milestone in her early career was becoming the first Argentinian to pass the Court of Master Sommeliers’ Advanced Sommelier certificate. This achievement, a rigorous examination testing extensive theoretical knowledge, practical service skills, and blind tasting ability, marked her as a rising star on the international stage, demonstrating her commitment to the highest professional standards.
Rising Through International Competitions
Ms. Levinson’s competitive record is among the most impressive in the sommelier world, showcasing her exceptional tasting ability and comprehensive knowledge. She was twice named Best Sommelier of Argentina by the Argentinean Association of Sommeliers, first in 2010 and again in 2014, solidifying her status as the preeminent wine expert in her home country. Her success transcended national borders when, in 2015, she won the prestigious ASI & APAS Best Sommelier of the Americas competition, a regional contest that draws top talent from across North and South America.
The pinnacle of her competitive journey came in 2016 when she represented Argentina at the ASI Best Sommelier of the World competition held in Mendoza, her home country. Competing against the globe’s elite sommeliers, she achieved an remarkable fourth-place finish. This achievement not only cemented her reputation as one of the world’s finest sommeliers but also brought significant international attention to Argentina’s growing prominence in the global wine scene. These competitions are renowned for their intense pressure, demanding exhaustive knowledge of wines, spirits, beers, viticulture, vinification, geography, and service, all under timed conditions. Her consistent performance at this level speaks volumes about her skill, composure, and dedication.
From Paris’s Elite Tables to Global Influence
Following her considerable success in Argentina and on the international competition circuit, Paz Levinson made a strategic move to France, a country synonymous with fine wine and haute cuisine. Her relocation marked a new chapter in her professional development, allowing her to immerse herself in the heart of European wine culture. She first joined the team at the three-Michelin-star restaurant of Hotel Le Bristol in Paris, working alongside esteemed professionals like Marco Pelletier. This experience provided invaluable exposure to the intricacies of managing a world-class wine program in one of the most demanding culinary environments.
Subsequently, she moved to Maison Pic in Valence, where she currently serves as Executive Head Sommelier for the legendary chef Anne-Sophie Pic. Maison Pic is not merely a restaurant; it is an institution, a bastion of French gastronomy with a rich history and a consistently awarded three Michelin stars. In this role, Ms. Levinson is responsible for curating and managing an extensive cellar, developing wine pairings that complement Chef Pic’s innovative cuisine, and leading a team of sommeliers. This position places her at the forefront of global fine dining, where her decisions directly influence the guest experience at the highest level. Beyond her restaurant roles, Ms. Levinson actively contributes to the broader wine industry as a restaurant consultant and an educator. Her work with organizations such as Wines of Argentina is particularly impactful, as she leverages her international standing to promote Argentinian wines and educate consumers and trade professionals worldwide. She is also a respected writer, contributing insightful articles to publications and websites including GuildSomm, further solidifying her influence as a thought leader in the sommelier community.
The Decanter World Wine Awards: A Benchmark of Quality
The Decanter World Wine Awards, established in 2004, has grown to become the world’s largest and most influential wine competition. Its primary objective is to provide consumers and the trade with a reliable, independent guide to the best wines available globally.
Scale and Scope of the Competition
Each year, the DWWA receives an astonishing volume of entries, often exceeding 18,000 wines from over 50 countries. This immense scale necessitates a meticulously organized and highly professional judging process. Wines are tasted blind, ensuring impartiality, and are grouped by region, style, and vintage to allow for fair comparison. The judging panels are composed of approximately 250 of the world’s leading wine experts, including Masters of Wine (MWs), Master Sommeliers (MSs), top wine buyers, journalists, and educators. This diverse group of specialists brings a wealth of collective knowledge and experience to the evaluation process. Medals – Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze – are awarded based on quality, with Platinum and Gold medal winners undergoing further re-tasting by the Co-Chairs to ensure absolute consensus and rigor. This multi-layered evaluation system is a hallmark of DWWA’s commitment to accuracy and integrity.
The Importance of Expert Palates
The credibility of the DWWA rests squarely on the expertise of its judges. In an increasingly saturated wine market, consumers rely on trusted endorsements to navigate choices. DWWA medals serve as powerful indicators of quality, driving sales and influencing purchasing decisions for both trade and consumers. For wineries, a DWWA medal, particularly a Platinum or Gold, can significantly boost brand recognition, open new markets, and validate their winemaking efforts. The role of individuals like Paz Levinson, with their highly refined palates and extensive global knowledge, is therefore paramount. They not only identify exceptional wines but also contribute to setting industry standards and highlighting emerging trends. Their ability to contextualize wines within their regional and stylistic frameworks is critical to providing meaningful evaluations.
Strategic Vision: Elevating Expertise and Diversity
Paz Levinson’s appointment as Resident Co-Chair for DWWA 2027 is more than just a personnel change; it represents a strategic move to deepen the awards’ global reach, enhance its intellectual capital, and foster greater diversity within the wine industry.
Bridging Continents: South American and French Expertise
One of the most compelling aspects of Ms. Levinson’s profile is her dual expertise in South American and French wines. Her profound understanding of Argentinian viticulture, from the high-altitude Malbecs of Mendoza to the nuanced Cabernet Francs of Patagonia, combined with her intimate knowledge of classic French appellations and avant-garde producers, positions her uniquely. This cross-cultural perspective is invaluable for a global competition like DWWA, which aims to evaluate wines from every corner of the world. She can provide critical insights into stylistic variations, regional typicity, and the evolving quality of wines from both established and emerging regions, ensuring that all entries are judged with an informed and culturally sensitive palate. This ability to bridge the Old and New Worlds of wine is a significant asset, ensuring that the judging panels benefit from a truly comprehensive viewpoint.
A Catalyst for Argentinian Wine on the World Stage
Ms. Levinson’s prominent role will undoubtedly cast a spotlight on Argentinian wine. As a celebrated ambassador for her home country’s wine industry, her position will amplify the visibility of Argentinian producers and their wines within the global wine community. Her involvement at such a high level at DWWA sends a clear message about the increasing quality and sophistication of South American wines. This could lead to greater international recognition, increased export opportunities, and a heightened consumer interest in the diverse and high-quality offerings from Argentina and other South American nations. Her leadership provides a powerful narrative that can inspire other wine professionals from developing regions, demonstrating that talent and dedication can lead to global influence irrespective of origin.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Sommeliers
Beyond her technical expertise, Paz Levinson serves as an inspirational figure, particularly for women and individuals from non-traditional wine regions aspiring to careers in wine. Her journey, from Argentina to the elite restaurants of France and now to a leadership role at a premier global wine competition, demonstrates that excellence transcends geographical boundaries and traditional gender roles. The wine industry, while evolving, has historically been male-dominated, particularly at its highest echelons. Ms. Levinson’s visibility and success encourage greater diversity and inclusivity, inspiring a new generation of sommeliers to pursue their passions and break through existing barriers. Her commitment to education, evidenced by her teaching at CAVE and her work with Wines of Argentina, further underscores her dedication to fostering talent and knowledge within the global wine community.
Official Commentary and Industry Reactions
While specific direct quotes are often reserved for official press releases, the implications of such an appointment allow for inferential statements reflecting likely sentiments from key stakeholders.
DWWA Organisers Welcome New Leadership
A spokesperson for Decanter would likely express profound enthusiasm for Ms. Levinson’s appointment. "We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Paz Levinson as our Resident Co-Chair for the 2027 Decanter World Wine Awards," a representative might state. "Paz embodies the global expertise, rigorous standards, and forward-thinking vision that are the hallmarks of DWWA. Her unparalleled experience across diverse wine cultures, from her native Argentina to the pinnacle of French gastronomy, will be invaluable in ensuring the continued integrity and relevance of our awards. We are confident that her leadership will inspire our judges and further elevate the quality of our evaluations." The organization would also acknowledge the pioneering work of Caro Maurer MW, the inaugural Resident Co-Chair, in establishing the role.
Levinson’s Vision for the 2027 Awards
Ms. Levinson herself would likely convey her immense honor and excitement for the opportunity. She might articulate a vision centered on precision, inclusivity, and education. "It is an immense honor to be appointed Resident Co-Chair for the 2027 Decanter World Wine Awards," Ms. Levinson would likely comment. "This role presents a unique opportunity to contribute to a competition that is truly global in its scope and influence. My aim is to work closely with the exceptional team of judges to ensure every wine is assessed with the utmost care, precision, and respect for its origin and style. I am particularly excited to bring my perspective on the dynamic evolution of South American wines, alongside my deep appreciation for the classics, to the forefront of our discussions, reinforcing DWWA’s commitment to discovering and celebrating quality from every corner of the world."
Industry Peers Applaud the Selection
The broader wine industry, including fellow sommeliers, critics, and producers, would undoubtedly applaud the decision. Industry leaders would see it as a progressive move that recognizes talent regardless of geographical origin. Esteemed colleagues and figures within the sommelier community would likely laud her appointment as a testament to her consistent pursuit of excellence and her significant contributions to the profession. Many would view it as a positive step for the industry’s diversity initiatives and a clear signal of the growing importance of global expertise in wine evaluation.
Looking Ahead: The 2027 Awards and Beyond
The 2027 Decanter World Wine Awards are poised to be a landmark event, with Paz Levinson’s leadership setting a distinctive tone. The structure of the Resident Co-Chair role ensures a fresh perspective each year, preventing stagnation and promoting continuous innovation.
Continuity and Change: Handover from Caro Maurer MW
Ms. Levinson takes over from Caro Maurer MW, a highly respected German Master of Wine and journalist, who served as the inaugural Resident Co-Chair in 2026. Ms. Maurer’s tenure was crucial in defining the parameters and impact of this new leadership position, setting a high standard for future incumbents. Her expertise, particularly in German and Central European wines, provided a foundational understanding of the role’s potential. The seamless handover from one highly qualified expert to another underscores DWWA’s commitment to maintaining leadership continuity while embracing periodic renewal and diverse expertise.
Regional Leadership for South America: Regine Lee MW and Eduardo Milan
With Ms. Levinson stepping into the Resident Co-Chair role, new appointments have been made to ensure continued robust regional coverage for South America. Regine Lee MW and Eduardo Milan will co-lead as Acting Regional Chairs for Argentina and the rest of South America for DWWA 2027. Regine Lee MW, a respected Master of Wine and wine educator, brings extensive knowledge of global wine markets and a strong analytical approach. Eduardo Milan, a prominent Argentinian wine critic and journalist, possesses intimate knowledge of the region’s producers and terroirs. This collaborative leadership ensures that South American wines continue to receive expert and nuanced evaluation, benefiting from a deep understanding of their unique characteristics and potential. Their combined expertise will be critical in upholding the regional integrity of the judging process.
Conclusion: A Global Voice for Fine Wine
Paz Levinson’s appointment as Resident Co-Chair of the 2027 Decanter World Wine Awards marks a pivotal moment for the competition and the global wine industry. Her distinguished career, characterized by competitive success, academic rigor, and leadership in world-class establishments, positions her as an ideal candidate to guide the awards into a new era. Her unique ability to bridge the Old and New Worlds of wine, coupled with her commitment to education and diversity, promises to bring a fresh, insightful, and profoundly global perspective to the DWWA judging panels. As the wine world continues to expand and diversify, the leadership of figures like Paz Levinson will be instrumental in ensuring that merit and quality are recognized and celebrated across all borders, further solidifying DWWA’s standing as the ultimate arbiter of global wine excellence.
