Friarwood Wines & Spirits is making its debut at the IWSC UK Sommelier of the Year Final on July 8th, with award-winning sommelier Salvatore Castano serving as an official judge alongside our carefully curated wine selection.
Castano, who claimed the title of Best Sommelier of Europe and Africa ASI in 2021, brings championship expertise to evaluate the UK's finest sommelier talent as they compete for the chance to represent Britain internationally.
From Local Merchant to Industry Recognition
The event marks a significant milestone for the family-run business, which has operated from London locations in Parsons Green and Wimbledon Village since 1967. Under Managing Director Ben Carfagnini's leadership since 2015, Friarwood has assembled world-class expertise including Castano and Head Wine Buyer Auriane d'Aramon.
"Having Salvatore judge at this level reflects the calibre of expertise we've built at Friarwood," said Carfagnini. "His championship perspective, combined with our 58 years of wine heritage, represents exactly what the next generation of sommeliers needs to learn from."
Supporting Wine Excellence
The IWSC UK Sommelier competition attracts the country's most skilled wine professionals, testing expertise in blind tasting, wine service, and industry knowledge. Friarwood's participation showcases wines from their portfolio of direct European producer relationships while supporting professional development.
"The IWSC represents the pinnacle of wine industry standards," said Castano. "Judging these emerging talents reminds me why precision, knowledge, and passion remain the foundation of great sommelier work."
This debut at the globally recognized competition demonstrates how independent wine merchants with deep expertise continue to play vital roles in the industry's evolution, bringing together exceptional wines and championship knowledge to support the next generation of wine professionals.
