News

Marinela Ardelean Appointed BTN Expert for Sommeliers Choice Awards 2026

Romania

Renowned international wine expert, PhD holder, and cultural ambassador of Romania, a judge for the Wine Travel Awards 2024-2025, Marinela Ardelean has been named as one of the regional and category experts for the prestigious Sommeliers Choice Awards 2026, organized by Beverage Trade Network (BTN).

Marinela Ardelean

According to the official statement from Beverage Trade Network, Marinela will be the expert for Eastern Europe. She will assist wineries from this region in effectively promoting their premium wines, participating in international competitions, and entering the U.S. market. Marinela will also take part in BTN’s educational program by conducting webinars and masterclasses for producers, sommeliers, and importers, sharing her knowledge and expertise.

Marinela Ardelean has been active in wine marketing, tourism, and brand promotion for over 15 years. Her activities in 2025 remain notably diverse:

  • Earlier this year, she launched the anniversary edition of her gastronomic guide, “50 Wines and Dishes from Romania,” published simultaneously in three languages.
  • In February 2025, she announced on LinkedIn the launch of Romanian table grapes sales in Carrefour stores under the brand “Bunătăți din România” (“Delicacies from Romania”).
  • In July, Marinela shared her reflections on the importance of self-discipline and focus via LinkedIn, comparing tennis to inner personal work – each ball being a new challenge, and each shot requiring intuition, concentration, and courage.

Marinela Ardelean’s appointment to the Sommeliers Choice Awards 2026 team is the recognition not only of her deep expertise in Eastern European wines but also of her role as an international bridge between local producers and global markets.

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Source: sommelierschoiceawards.com, linkedin.com/posts/marinelaardelean