Hello, water aficionados!
The FineWaters Summit 2025 (April 25–27 in Atlanta, GA) is right around the corner, and with it comes the much-anticipated TASTE & DESIGN AWARDS 2025. This global conference – hosted in Atlanta’s chic Buckhead district – gathers premium bottled water brands, sommeliers, and industry experts from around the world. A highlight of the summit is the water tasting competition, where 100 waters from across the globe will be evaluated for excellence in taste and design by an elite jury of international water sommelier. Under the summit’s theme of “Sustainability and Community Impact,” these judges will not only bring their palates to the table but also their unique perspectives on water’s culture, terroir, and wellness benefits.
1. Dr. Elena Berg – The Scientific Steward
Paired Water: Borjomi Sparkling (Georgia)
Dr. Elena Berg is a Certified Water Sommelier and a professor of Environmental Science based in Paris. Known for her research in sustainable water management and her focus on pure, unpolluted waters, Dr. Berg is committed to educating consumers about the importance of clean water. She’s a huge fan of Borjomi Sparkling from Georgia – a naturally carbonated water that flows from deep within the Caucasus Mountains, enriched by its volcanic terrain. Borjomi is known for its rich mineral content and unique mineralization, making it the perfect choice for someone who appreciates water with character and history.
Why it matches: Just like Dr. Berg’s scientific approach to water purity, Borjomi Sparkling is a mineral-rich, naturally effervescent water that speaks to her belief in clean, sustainable sources.
2. Cori Bokath – The Event Connoisseur
Paired Water: Lurisia Still (Italy)
Cori Bokath is a seasoned Certified Water Sommelier and an expert in event planning. With over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Cori knows that the right water can elevate any event. Her favorite water is Lurisia Still from Italy, known for its smooth, clean taste and the refined elegance it adds to any occasion. Sourced from the Alpsand filtered naturally over 1,000 years, Lurisia Still offers a pure and balanced profile, making it perfect for pairing with fine dining or hosting events where every detail counts.
Why it matches: Cori’s background in events is all about sophistication and elevating the experience. Lurisia Still is a water that exudes elegance and refinement, just like her events.
3. Lee Kwun Wai (Ivan) – The Health Educator
Paired Water: Perlage (Poland)
Ivan Kwun Wai, or Lee, is a Certified Water Sommelier from Hong Kong, and a passionate advocate for healthy hydration. He emphasizes how the right water can contribute to better health and well-being. For Ivan, Perlage from Poland is his water of choice. Known for its gentle champagne-like bubbles and balanced mineral content, Perlage is a naturally sparkling water that provides an effervescent refreshment. It’s a perfect choice for anyone seeking a refined, yet health-conscious drink.
Why it matches: Ivan is all about wellness, and Perlage delivers a light, sparkling experience while also being a healthy, mineral-rich option. It’s an elegant water that embodies Ivan’s focus on both taste and health.
4. Ashley Epperson – The Fine Water Visionary
Paired Water: Sant Aniol (Spain)
As the co-owner of Salacious Drinks, I (Ashley) am thrilled to be part of this event. As a Certified Water Sommelier, I’ve worked to bring premium bottled waters to a broader audience. One of my favorite waters is Sant Aniol from Spain – a still water that offers a smooth, balanced taste with a hint of minerality. It’s perfect for daily hydration and a great addition to any water connoisseur’s collection. Sant Aniol is sourced from the Catalan Pyrenees and has a refreshing, clean profile that I always turn to.
Why it matches: Sant Aniol represents my mission of curating waters that are refined yet approachable. This still water is the perfect fit for someone who loves a pure and balanced drinking experience.
5. Dr. Michael Mascha – The Pioneer Connoisseur
Paired Water: Vichy Catalan Sparkling (Spain)
Dr. Michael Mascha is one of the most influential figures in the world of fine water. As the founder of FineWaters and a leading water expert, Dr. Mascha has spent decades studying the world’s best bottled waters. He’s particularly fond of Vichy Catalan Sparkling from Spain – a naturally carbonated water with a unique mineral composition, including bicarbonates, magnesium, and calcium. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a more robust, mineral-driven sparkling water that pairs beautifully with food.
Why it matches: Dr. Mascha’s sophisticated palate appreciates waters with complexity, and Vichy Catalan Sparkling is a perfect match. It’s a sparkling water with history, depth, and a mineral profile that showcases the water’s natural properties.
6. Nico Pieterse – The Trailblazer
Paired Water: Vilajuiga (Spain)
Nico Pieterse is a Certified Water Sommelier from South Africa and an advocate for exploring the diverse world of water. His mission is to bring fine waters to new audiences and educate people on the importance of sourcing quality water. Nico’s favorite is Vilajuiga from Spain – a naturally still spring water that’s been sourced from the Girona region since the 14th century. It’s a pristine water with a clean, fresh taste that embodies purity and freshness. Nico appreciates the authenticity of Vilajuiga and its ability to showcase the purity of spring water.
Why it matches: Nico’s adventurous spirit and dedication to discovering new waters align perfectly with Vilajuiga, a water that has a rich history and offers a refreshing, pure taste.
Ready to taste the waters that the Fine Waters Summit jury will be sipping? It's the Fine Water's Box curated by Dr. Michael Mascha and the Salacious Drinks team!
Box Includes:
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Borjomi Sparkling (Georgia)
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Lurisia Still (Italy)
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Perlage (Poland)
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Sant Aniol (Spain)
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Vichy Catalan Sparkling (Spain)
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Vilajuiga (Spain)
Get Your Summit Six Box Today: www.salaciousdrinks.com
Let’s meet the six sommeliers on this year’s jury panel and discover what makes each of them a true water connoisseur. In the spirit of celebration, we’ve also paired each judge with a premium bottled water (available via Salacious Drinks) that reflects their personality, background, or expertise. Finally, don’t miss the curated tasting box at the end – a chance to sip along with the judges!