This series offers a behind-the-scenes look at what drives these wine experts and the thoughtful criteria they use to assess wines based on quality, value, and packaging. Through these insights, winemakers and brands gain a valuable understanding of what stands out to judges and how to present their wines in ways that connect with today’s consumers.

Our first interview features Jusden Aumand, Buying and Sourcing Director at Tri Vin Wine & Spirits. With a unique and unexpected journey into the wine world, Jusden brings a fresh and passionate approach to his work. Here’s a glimpse into his background, judging philosophy, and the regions and varietals that capture his attention.

A Passion for Wine Sparked by Travel

When asked about his journey into the wine industry, Jusden shared that it began with an entirely different kind of tour - one involving music rather than wine. “I was on a world tour in Europe playing drums and was exposed to many incredible wines,” he recalls. This experience opened his eyes to the world of fine wine, igniting a passion that has since become his career.

Image courtesy: Instagram 

In his current role at Tri Vin Wine & Spirits, Jusden’s responsibilities revolve around sourcing and selecting wines daily, giving him a constant pulse on the industry’s offerings. This exposure keeps him attuned to both emerging trends and timeless qualities that make wines exceptional, shaping his perspective when evaluating entries for the USA Wine Ratings.

Balancing Quality, Value, and Packaging

Jusden believes that wine is an emotional experience, one that connects through a combination of visual and sensory elements. For him, quality, value, and packaging are intertwined but distinct in their influence on consumer perception. “Connective packaging and complex aromatics set the stage to persuade,” he explains, emphasizing the power of a wine’s sensory appeal.

However, Jusden feels strongly about the need to judge packaging independently in blind tastings to avoid bias. “Packaging is crucial, especially in retail, where many wines are selected based on their appearance,” he notes, but he suggests it be evaluated separately from taste to ensure that each component is assessed on its own merits.

Image courtesy: Instagram 

When it comes to regions and varietals, Jusden is particularly drawn to wines from Willamette Valley, Sauternes, Cru Beaujolais, and Barolo. These areas produce distinct styles that appeal to his refined palate, and he hopes to see entries from these regions that showcase the best of their terroir in this year’s competition.

Advice for Wine Brands: “Review Wine for Flaws Prior to Submission”

For winemakers entering the USA Wine Ratings, Jusden’s advice is simple but impactful: “Review wine for flaws prior to submission.” Ensuring that the wine is in top condition when presented for judging is essential, as even small imperfections can detract from its appeal and affect the overall score.

In our Meet the Buyer series, each judge’s story reveals their unique journey, their passions, and the criteria they bring to their assessments. With insights from industry professionals like Jusden Aumand, this series highlights what makes our judges’ palates unique and provides invaluable tips for brands aiming to succeed at the USA Wine Ratings.

Stay tuned for more interviews with our expert panel, and discover what it takes to resonate with these masters of wine evaluation. Whether you’re a producer, retailer, or wine enthusiast, these insights shed light on the art and science behind selecting wines that capture the market’s attention.

Also if you’re a wine brand and ready to showcase your wines to experts like Jusden, then submissions are now open for the 2025 USA Wine Ratings, where wines are evaluated on quality, value, and packaging to identify those that will resonate with today’s consumers. Super Early Bird pricing ends December 10, 2024, so don’t miss this chance to enter your wines at a reduced rate!

Header Image: Jusden Aumand, Buying and Sourcing Director at Tri Vin Wine & Spirits

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