Since 2013, have you seen the level of participants in the final increase?
Absolutely, especially the French tasters, who got into the game and learned to taste wines from abroad. As the national selections become more and more specialized and popular, the level of competitors increases each year.
What are the main challenges of organizing such an event?
Manage both the logistics, even if this year, thanks to the team which welcomes us we are well supported, the management of the teams, the selection tests in the different countries, the choice of wines from around the world which will be tasted. But also on site, the animation of the event, the correction of the copies which must not contain any errors.
How do you choose the wines for the competition and how many bottles are needed for the final?
Throughout the year I taste a lot of wines, both French and from all over the world, either during my travels abroad or by requesting samples to be sent. I also work with importers. We generally need at least 18 bottles per event.
How many people participate in the organization of the World Championship
The RVF organization is made up of 9 people and myself. Everyone has a specific role so that we can fulfill all our missions: welcome the teams, distribute badges, seat everyone, open the wines, ensure that they have no defects, bring them to temperature, mark the entries at the various dinners, classify the batches, collect the papers, correct them, manage the publication of the results live on the big screen, etc.
How long before the final do you start working on the event?
We work in advance at least a year before.
Is there anything in common between the different winners over the years?
No, to win this type of competition you have to train well and also be in a state of “grace” on the day of the competition. You also need good understanding within the team and sometimes a good coach when it comes to take the right decisions.
Since the first edition in 2013, what is your best memory linked to this event?
More than the results themselves, what struck me was the spirit of exchange and conviviality which reigned during this event. The young Chinese toasting with the Taiwanese, the Russians at the table with the Ukrainians, and the tears of the members of the Belgian team when announcing their victory in Languedoc.
Among the participants, there is a group of faithful from the very beginning. How to explain this loyalty?
I think this event has found its place in the world of true wine lovers. He still has a lot of room for improvement.
