In the dynamic world of wines, the journey of Rachael Lowe stands as a testament to passion, knowledge, and the pursuit of excellence. As the Director of Beverage Operations at Levy Restaurant, Lowe brings over a decade of experience, having carved her path through some of the most prestigious names in the culinary and hospitality industry. From the bustling kitchens of New York City to the vineyard-dotted landscapes of Napa, her journey is a rich tapestry of experiences that have shaped her into a leading figure in the beverage sector.

Rachael is participating as a judge with the 6th edition of the Sommeliers Choice Awards. SCA is now open for entries, wine brands looking to elevate their presence in the on-premise sector are invited to participate before the April 24 deadline. 

Image source: 2024 SCA judging panel

Lowe's foray into the world of wine began in the heart of New York City, where she balanced her graduate studies with the role of an assistant sommelier at esteemed venues like Café Grey, The Mandarin Oriental, and Gordon Ramsay. Her passion for wine led her to Napa, working with the Thomas Keller Restaurant Group, a pivotal experience that culminated in her earning an Advanced degree through the Court of Master Sommeliers. Chicago became her next stage, where she took on the role of Director of Beverage for the Trump Hotel before joining Levy, where she now oversees national beverage operations.

With the Sommeliers Choice Awards inviting brands to showcase their wines, Lowe emphasizes the competition's unique approach to judging, which aligns closely with the expectations of today's trade and consumers. The diversity and caliber of judges, representing the industry's best on a national level, ensure a comprehensive and fair evaluation of entries. The awards offer a platform for wines to be assessed not just for their quality and typicity but also for value, packaging, and marketability, reflecting the multifaceted criteria modern consumers consider.

Image source: rachaellowe

Lowe's experience as a judge has given her insights into emerging trends shaping the wine landscape. The rise of high-quality canned wines, a shift back to classic varietals, and the exploration of fun varietals from unexpected regions indicate a dynamic industry that's continually evolving. These trends not only reflect changing consumer preferences but also hint at the industry's readiness to innovate and adapt.

For smaller or emerging wineries, winning a medal at the Sommeliers Choice Awards can be a game-changer. Such recognition serves as a significant accolade, providing valuable exposure and credibility in a competitive market. Lowe views the feedback from judges as an essential element of the competition, offering constructive insights that can help entrants refine their offerings and achieve greater success.

With the 6th edition of the Sommeliers Choice Awards now open for entries, wine brands looking to elevate their presence in the on-premise sector are invited to participate before the April 24 deadline. This unique opportunity allows wines to be presented to America's top sommeliers and wine buyers, undergoing a rigorous blind-tasting process that evaluates food pairability, typicity, quality, value, and packaging. The detailed feedback provided by judges, including industry veterans like Lowe, is invaluable for entrants, offering a roadmap for excellence and distinction in the wine world.