Eduardo Dingler, Vice President of Wine at Wine Access, has made a remarkable career out of his start in Mexico and his introduction to the world-famous Napa Valley vineyards. Eduardo's love of wine began at a young age while working in Italian restaurants, and it eventually led to his being appointed Global Beverage Director for the Morimoto Restaurant Group. Over his seven years there, he not only honed his wine skills but also gained a deep understanding of sake, receiving the Certified Sake Professional Diploma and the Court of Master Sommelier Certificate.

Eduardo visits Japan multiple times a year to further his understanding of sake, shochu, beer, and spirits because of his passion for Japanese culture and cuisine. Due to his vast knowledge, he has been recognized as a judge at several esteemed events, such as the Japan Wine and Sake Challenge, USA Wine Ratings, San Francisco International Wine Competition, Japan World Spirits Competition, and Las Vegas Global Spirits Competition.

For an in-depth look at Eduardo Dingler’s experiences and insights, check out the full interview below. Discover how his journey and expertise influence the wine and sake industries. Learn more about USA Wine Ratings and Eduardo’s role in judging.

Can you share a bit about your journey into the world of wine?

My wine journey started in the hospitality industry, with a deep early career in Italian restaurants. later took a role as the Global Beverage Director for the Morimoto Restaurant Group. After seven years in this position, I ventured into wine journalism and then joined Wine Access, an online retail authority, as VP of Wine.

The USA Wine Ratings are known for their holistic judging criteria. In your opinion, what sets these criteria apart, and how do they align with what today's trade and consumers are looking for?

The criteria utilized by USA Wine Ratings have a unique approach, first judging in a blind setting, followed by a package rating component, which I find fascinating and sets this competition apart. Not to mention how important and relevant it is for today’s landscape.

Image source: Eduardo Dingler interviewing Champagne legend Regis Camus and tasting his award-winning HEAVENSAKE.

Considering the diverse aspects of wine assessment—such as quality, value for money, and packaging—how do you balance these elements during judging, and which do you find most challenging to evaluate?

It is of utmost importance to judge wines based on their own merits, balance, and representation of the category rather than comparing them to other entries and personal preferences. It is both challenging and rewarding.

Competitions often highlight trends within the wine industry. Based on your experience as a judge, can you identify any emerging trends that are gaining traction?

Quality-to-price ratio is always in fashion, aside from comprehensive storytelling and making the consumer feel a connection with the brands.

From your perspective, how significant is the impact of winning a medal at the USA Wine Ratings for a wine brand, especially for smaller or emerging wineries?

Winning a medal at a wine competition sets the bar high, and it is important to stand out against the highly competitive market.

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Feedback from judges is a crucial component of the USA Wine Ratings. How do you approach giving constructive feedback to entrants, and why do you believe this feedback is valuable for them?

It is important to give sensible and constructive criticism to the entrants. We have to remember that each wine submitted represents thought, production, and delivery of the product. I keep that in mind when giving points.

Eduardo Dingler's expertise in wine and sake makes him a key figure in the beverage industry. Follow USA Wine Ratings for more such insights. Enter the USA Ratings for Wine, Spirits, and Beer by June 20, 2024, for feedback and recognition. Submit today.