2026 National Young Sommeliers Competition Rules
Eligibility
- Canadian citizen or legal resident with valid work permit
- Aged 21–28 (turning 29 no earlier than October 21, 2026)
- Sponsored by a Chaîne member
- Must confirm availability for international competition as a condition of eligibility
First Round — February 21, 2026
Closed-book written exam at 1:00 PM at the Ranchmen's Club in Calgary. The top six contestants advance to the final stage.
Final Stage — March 28, 2026
Finalists complete four components within 20-minute intervals:
- Blind wine tasting (four wines using Court of Master Sommeliers methods)
- Red wine service performance
- Sparkling wine service
- Tableside wine pairing recommendations
Prizes
- 1st Place: Medal + $1,000
- 2nd Place: Medal + $500
- 3rd Place: Medal + $250
The national champion receives an all-expenses-paid invitation to compete in the International Jeunes Sommeliers Competition. Results are final with no appeals permitted.