Submission
Deadline
October 16, 2026
Judging
Date
November 11, 2026
Winners
Announcement
November 26, 2026
Arnaud Bardary, MS is the Head of Business Development at Watson's Wine in Hong Kong and a Master Sommelier, having earned the prestigious diploma in 2015.
Born in Lons-le-Saunier, Jura, France, Arnaud comes from a fifth-generation family deeply rooted in the food and wine industry. His family's heritage spans wine production in the renowned Château-Chalon appellation as well as restaurant ownership, providing him with an early foundation in hospitality and fine wine.
He began his hospitality education in Le Mans before continuing his studies in Nice, later specializing as a Sommelier in Toulouse. During this time, he gained international exposure through a professional placement in England, where he discovered the dynamic global wine market.
Arnaud further developed his winemaking expertise by participating in harvests and vinification in Gaillac and Pernand-Vergelesses before joining Hotel du Vin in the UK. His career has since taken him across Spain, the United Kingdom, and Hong Kong, working in renowned Michelin-starred restaurants, managing wine programs for a group of more than 25 restaurants, and building an exceptional international career in wine.
Beyond his commercial role, Arnaud spends significant time visiting vineyards around the world to deepen his understanding of terroir, grape varieties, viticulture, history, and regional wine cultures. He believes that one of the greatest responsibilities of wine professionals is to share their knowledge and passion, helping consumers and the trade better appreciate the stories behind every bottle.