Introducing the SommCon Imprint Awards – a new annual program celebrating the individuals and institutions shaping the future of the beverage industry. The inaugural awards celebration will take place on Tuesday, September 9, during SommCon Conference & Beverage Expo at Rancho Bernardo Inn in San Diego, California.
A platform for the community to uplift unsung heroes, emerging voices, and industry icons, the Imprint Awards spotlight excellence in mentorship, education, innovation, and storytelling across wine, spirits, and hospitality. Nominations for the inaugural awards are now open through July 2, 2025.
“The Imprint Awards were born from the stories and contributions we see every year at SommCon – those who are truly shaping the culture, craft, and community of this industry,” said Michelle Metter, Founder and Director of SommCon. “These awards are about recognizing the people and programs that don’t just show up, they move the needle. They build pathways, elevate standards, and create impact that ripples across the industry – not just for their organizations, but for all of us.”
The 2025 Imprint Award categories include:
Sommelier of the Year – Expertise, passion, and commitment to service
Emerging Leader Award – A rising star shaping the future of wine and spirits
Imprint Award – Lifetime impact through mentorship, leadership, and service
Innovation Award – Groundbreaking initiatives or technologies
Bridge Award – Educational institutions preparing the next generation of leaders
Voice of the Industry – Digital storytellers amplifying the craft, culture, and community of beverage
Nominations are now open, including self-nominations, and there is no nomination fee required to submit a nomination. Following an open submission period, the SommCon Board of Advisors will review nominations and select semifinalists in each category. The public will then vote to determine the finalists. Winners will be selected through a weighted combination of public votes and advisory scores and announced live at SommCon in September 2025.
Winners will also be featured in the December 2025 issue of The SOMM Journal, a media partner for SommCon and the 2025 Imprint Awards.