What is the Judgement of London?
This benchmark tasting is being organised by London Wine Fair in homage to Steven Spurrier’s landmark 1976 tasting, generally revered under the moniker “The Judgement of Paris.”
London Wine Fair, as the UK’s biggest wine trade event, enjoys a 43-year heritage, hosts more than 400 exhibitors and over 10,000 drinks trade visitors annually.
Ideally situated in London’s iconic Olympia building, itself built on the site of a vineyard in the 19th Century, the London Wine Fair represents, beyond any question, the perfect place to host a tribute “Judgement” tasting. The 2024 tasting aims to resonate for years to come.
The wine industry’s best known and most respected media attend the London Wine Fair in droves, as do the UK’s greatest palates, wine critics and most senior wine buyers.
How will it work?
The flights and scoring system are being curated by Ronan Sayburn MS, CEO of The Court of Master Sommeliers, alongside awarded wine writer and highly respected tasting judge Sarah Abbott MW.
“The Judgement of London” will feature two “Old World” vs. “New World” Icons Tastings with a white flight, followed by a red flight.
In an update to the original Judgement of Paris format, which saw current vintages of Bordeaux and Californian wines compared, the 2024 version will see a broader inclusion of Old World icon wines against what are referred to as New World icon producers, with back vintages from each producer to compare ageing potentials. The tasting panel will comprise around 20 judges of the industry’s most discerning palates, including leading buyers, top sommeliers, and wine writers.
The tasting panel will comprise c.20 judges, selected by invitation only.
The aim is to create the most discerning, powerful and representative body of tasters that the UK has to offer.
The Judgement of London Results will be announced on Centre Stage on Tuesday 21st May at 4:45pm.
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