About Next Gen International Wine Awards

The Next Gen International Wine Awards is a collaboration between Wine Industry Network (WIN) and Wine & Spirit Competitions, created with a shared mission: to give rising wine professionals a meaningful voice and help the industry better connect with the next generation of wine consumers.

Wine Industry Network, led by President George Christie, is one of the most respected and influential B2B organizations in the wine space, known for its industry news (Wine Industry Advisor), trade events (WIN Expo), supplier directory, and role supporting wineries, growers, and service providers across North America. George brings more than 30 years of wine industry leadership to this competition, including executive roles in winery management, marketing, events, and industry advocacy.

Wine & Spirit Competitions, owned and operated by Debra Del Fiorentino, is a nationally recognized portfolio of professional competitions including the Sunset International Wine Competition, North Coast Wine Challenge, LA Invitational Wine & Spirits Challenge, and others. Debra is a 3rd Level, Sommelier, a CWP, CWS and veteran wine competition producer with decades of experience overseeing some of the most respected judging programs in the country.

Together, George and Debra created the Next Gen International Wine Awards to spotlight emerging voices, modern tastes, and cultural trends — bridging the gap between tradition and tomorrow, and ensuring the next generation has a seat at the table.