IN BREVE
- IWSC returns to officially support the Institute of Masters of Wine, renewing the collaboration launched in 2018 for scholarships.
- The partnership, after a brief hiatus, focuses on supporting the education of future Masters of Wine.
- William Drew of IWSC emphasizes the importance of building a community and promoting excellence in the beverage industry.
- The Institute of Masters of Wine proudly welcomes IWSC’s support, which is essential for training future wine leaders.
- Currently, the IMW has 421 active Masters of Wine and 320 students in the 2025-2026 program, with high examination standards recognized internationally.
IWSC returns as an official supporter of the Institute of Masters of Wine. The two organizations are renewing a collaboration launched in 2018, focused particularly on scholarships for students working toward becoming Masters of Wine. To date, the international competition has supported 39 candidates.
The collaboration began with the awarding of the first scholarships, later consolidating in 2021 when IWSC became an IMW supporter. After a brief interruption in the institutional relationship, during which support continued through the scholarship program, the two entities have decided to formally restore the partnership.
IWSC AND SUPPORT FOR MASTER OF WINE STUDENTS
“We are delighted to reaffirm our support for the Institute of Masters of Wine and the vital work it does for the beverage industry worldwide,” says William Drew, managing director of a21 UK, IWSC’s parent company. “IWSC is more than a competition: it also means building a community, promoting education in the beverage sector, and cultivating excellence. These are values shared with the IMW. It is therefore natural to collaborate to support the development of the next generation of Masters of Wine globally.”
The Institute of Masters of Wine also expressed its satisfaction. “We welcome IWSC back into our family of supporters with great pride,” comments Executive Director Sarah Harrison. “For years, its generous contribution to the Institute and its students has been instrumental in shaping some of the brightest and most passionate future wine leaders. We look forward to working even more closely together, sharing the goal of promoting excellence and community in the wine world.”
THE INSTITUTE OF MASTERS OF WINE BY THE NUMBERS
Founded over 70 years ago, the Institute of Masters of Wine today brings together 421 active Masters of Wine across 30 countries. Members include producers, sommeliers, buyers, journalists, importers, consultants, viticulturists, academics, and educators.
The 2025-2026 study program includes 320 students from 46 countries. The MW exam is internationally recognized for its rigor and the high standards required. After passing the exams, candidates must also sign the Institute’s code of conduct before they can use the title Master of Wine.
The IMW currently relies on 38 supporters and four research and industry associates. The five principal supporters are Austrian Wine, AXA Millésimes, Champagne Bollinger, Constellation Brands, and VSPT Wine Group.
IWSC: OVER 12,000 SAMPLES PER YEAR
Founded in 1969, the International Wine and Spirit Competition evaluates more than 12,000 samples each year from over 90 countries. The judging panels are composed of industry professionals, including Masters of Wine, Master Sommeliers, Master Distillers, and senior buyers.
Through the competition, promotional activities, and training programs, IWSC aims to offer producers tools for international comparison, market recognition, and networking opportunities with operators and experts.
