Saskia Smeenk wins the first edition of the Prix Joseph Perrier

Amsterdam, 13 May 2025 - During the exciting final on 12 May at De L'Europe Amsterdam, Saskia Smeenk of Restaurant Daalder* (Amsterdam) was named the winner of the very first Prix Joseph Perrier - Champagne Sommelier 2025. With her impressive knowledge, presentation and technical skills, she managed to convince the jury. As of today, Saskia may officially call herself Champagne Sommelier of the Year 2025.

Second and third place went respectively to Jeffrey van der Beek of Restaurant Merlet* (Schoorl) and Jisca Wiersema of Restaurant De Kromme Dissel* (Heelsum), who also excelled in creativity, expertise and, of course, their love of champagne.

A tribute to champagne and craftsmanship

The Prix Joseph Perrier is an initiative of Brouzje in collaboration with champagne house Joseph Perrier. The competition is designed to put the craftsmanship of sommeliers in the spotlight and to inspire them to further discover their knowledge about champagne and to use it in their work. The theme of this first edition was 'Effervescence - the magic of bubbles and effervescence'.

"It is inspiring to see how much passion and knowledge there is for champagne in the Netherlands. This competition is not only an ode to craftsmanship, but also celebrates the richness of our heritage. Especially in this anniversary year - which marks Joseph Perrier's 200th anniversary - it feels special to start this new tradition with such talented sommeliers," said Paul Edgar Bredar, export manager Joseph Perrier.

The finalists were judged on three parts: presentation, knowledge of the theme and sommelier skill with champagne. The jury consisted of chairman Frank Jacobs (wine journalist), Anja Vondenhoff (Champagne Ambassador, Weinakademiker) and Heleen Boom (sommelier - owner Restaurant Bouwkunde and president of the Dutch Guild of Sommeliers).

A vibrant grand prize

The winner will not only receive the title Champagne Sommelier of the Year 2025, but also the official challenge trophy, the certificate, Joseph Perrier's top cuvée Joséphine, an overnight stay in Champagne, an extensive cellar tour with tasting at Joseph Perrier's premises and luxury dinner for two.

About Brouzje

For more than 10 years, Brouzje has been a leader when it comes to importing high-quality champagnes that are also widely served in Dutch gastronomy. The producers have been selected with personal attention by Hinke de Jong, named Champagne Ambassador by Comité Champagne in 2016. In 2024 Joseph Perrier, which celebrates its 200th anniversary this year, was added to the range

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