The Jury Presidents
Each edition of the contest is honored by the presence of a distinguished personality committed to promoting the values of organic farming. These renowned presidents play a crucial role as spokespersons for the contest and the award-winning products.
President of the 2024 Edition: Gaby Benici
Michelin Sommelier Prize in 2023, head of the starred restaurant Äponem.
« It was an honor and a great pleasure for me to participate in this edition. My experience was very enriching both personally and professionally. The interaction with the jury around the tables and the sharing during the tasting were truly sincere and rich. A very positive and meaningful experience! »
President of the 2023 Edition: Karine Valentin
Specialized journalist for La Revue du Vin de France, she has been an iconic figure in the wine sector for over 30 years.
« JI was delighted to chair the jury for the Challenge Millésime Bio. I personally participated in the tastings, which were perfectly organized, allowing us to judge nearly 2,000 wines in a calm and serene atmosphere at the unique GGL Stadium in Montpellier, where the MHR, the winners of the Bouclier de Brennus, play. The quality of the wines was outstanding, and we awarded our share of medals. I particularly appreciate these collegial tastings composed of sommeliers, oenologists, and specialized journalists, all part of qualified juries, where everyone tastes according to their criteria to offer a serious list of winners. »
President of the 2022 Edition 2022: Elisabeth Pierre
Beer expert, author, professional zythology trainer, lecturer, and founder of the Bierissima circle.
« I was honored to preside over the 15th edition of the Challenge Millésime Bio competition, which also marked the grand opening to certified organic beers. With a jury composed of 24 expert judges and beer sommeliers from across France, Switzerland, and Belgium, the World Organic Beer Competition contributes to highlighting the very dynamic organic beer sector. France, in fact, holds a record, producing nearly four times more organic beers than the average of other countries worldwide. This experience was both humanly and technically incredible, and it aligns with my long-standing commitment to promoting organic beers from local and international brewing industries. »
President of the 2021 Edition: Andrew Jefford
English journalist, poet, magazine editor, and globally recognized wine critic.
« I was delighted to be the President of the 14th competition, linked to the Millésime Bio fair, which I love for both human and oenological reasons. It was an extraordinary experience, with an impressive level of quality among the samples. I would also like to thank all the other jury members, who were very professional and knowledgeable tasters. With each passing year, organic wine continues to gain prominence worldwide, and for me, this cultivation method is a natural part of modern viticulture.»
President of the 2020 Edition: Jean-Luc Rabanel
Chef of the two-starred restaurant "L'Atelier" in Arles.
The Michelin-starred chef Jean-Luc Rabanel, known for his innovative approach to organic and sustainable cuisine, brought a unique culinary dimension to the event, emphasizing the link between gastronomy and organic products.
President of the 2019 Edition: Philippe Faure-Brac
Best Sommelier in the World and President of the French Sommellerie Union.
Philippe Faure-Brac embodies excellence and expertise in the world of wine. With decades of experience, he is not only an expert in tasting but also a passionate ambassador of wine culture. Renowned for his ability to discern the subtleties and complexities of wines, his role in the competition was instrumental in ensuring a meticulous and impartial evaluation of the products. As jury president, Philippe Faure-Brac brought a deep and nuanced perspective, highlighting the efforts of winemakers striving for excellence in organic wine production.
Other notable presidents include Klaus Hermann, director of the German professional magazine WEIN+MARKT (2018 Edition), and Joris Snelten, CEO of Delta Wines, one of the largest Dutch importers and parent company of Coenecoop (2017 Edition).