First Scholarship from Traditionsweingüter Österreich awarded

Twenty five candidates from around the world attended the Introductory course and Certified Sommeliers examination held at the Restaurant Brunnauer im Magazin, Salzburg from 14 – 16th November.

Steve Breitzke, Sommelier at the Sofitel in Vienna was awarded the Traditionsweingüter scholarship for achieving the highest overall score in the combined examinations.

The award was presented at the awards ceremony by Mr Michael Moosbrugger Chairman of the Traditionsweingüter Association which among other things is responsible for the development of the Erste Lage classification of single vineyard sites throughout Austria.

In winning the scholarship Steve will receive financial support from the association to continue his studies at advanced level.

After the course a number of candidates were able to participate in a two day wine tour to the Wachau, Kamptal & Weinviertel regions organised by the Austrian Sommelier Association.

The tour included in depth tastings with wine producers from the regions and visits to vineyards and cellars.

The Court of Master Sommeliers and the Austrian Sommeliers Association are working to make Austria an annual venue for courses and examinations in the future.