The 2025 USA Wine Ratings (UWR) is pleased to introduce its first batch of esteemed judges. The only competition in the USA where judges are National, Regional, and Independent Wine Retail Buyers.

The competition is designed to help brands stand out in a crowded marketplace, offering a unique platform for producers to showcase their wines to key buyers and decision-makers across the U.S. The top wine buyers from all over the US market will gather in San Francisco on July 28, 2025, and will review the wines submitted into the 2025 USA Wine Ratings by Quality, Value, and Package.

One of the key things about USA Wine Ratings and its judges is they are the buyers and everyday decision-makers for adding new wines to their placements. By bringing the top wine buyers of the USA, wines submitted to the competition will get feedback from these influential trade buyers and also give them a chance to see and review the wines.

We aim for a good blend of buyers, young and experienced, people who are on the floor to people who are in the head office looking at national data, men and women, national chains and small wine stores.

They’re asked to consider the commercial appeal of the wine that the supplier has provided. So a $15 USD retail wine may score very highly if it’s an excellent wine for that price. Equally, a $30 USD retail wine may achieve a lower score if our judges think it’s overpriced.

We’ll have a senior panel of Master of Wine judges that will also sit on each panel ensuring that there’s consistency in the scoring. Each wine also will be reviewed by a Master of Wine ensuring the highest level of wine judging.

USA Wine Ratings is the ultimate wine competition where big and important trade buyers of the USA along with Masters of Wine review the wines.

Here are the first round of 2025 USA Wine Ratings judges:

Kimberly Shannon

Beer, Wine, and Liquor Specialist at Giant Eagle, Inc.

Kimberly is responsible for selecting a wide range of wines and spirits at Giant Eagle, ensuring they meet both quality and value expectations.

Steve Beckner, CSW

Wine & Spirits Buyer at Grocery Outlet

Steve specializes in identifying great-value wines for Grocery Outlet, ensuring customers get the best quality wines at unbeatable prices.

Greg Richtarek

Wine & Spirits Manager at Safeway Stores, Inc.

Greg’s role at Safeway gives him insight into the mass retail sector, helping to identify wines that appeal to a wide consumer base.

Jeff Slankard

Wine Director at Barons Marketplace

Jeff oversees wine selections at Barons Marketplace, curating a dynamic range of wines that cater to everyday consumers and enthusiasts alike.

Henry Brimo

Wine Category Manager at Southeastern Grocers

With experience in overseeing wine selections for Southeastern Grocers, Henry’s expertise ensures that wines chosen for this competition reflect the needs of both consumers and retailers alike.

Tim Marson MW

Master of Wine and Category Director at Wine.com

Tim Marson brings his vast experience from Wine.com, one of the largest online retailers, and his Master of Wine credential. He helps curate a wide array of wines to meet diverse consumer preferences.

Dejah S. Overby

Wine and Spirits Specialist at K&L Wine Merchants

Dejah brings years of expertise from K&L Wine Merchants, where she specializes in sourcing and promoting premium wines and spirits for consumers.

Bruce Abbott

President at Liquor Stores USA, North

Bruce is a seasoned professional in wine and spirits retail, overseeing liquor store operations across a major U.S. region.

Ryan Anderson

Wine Manager at Total Wine & More

As a key figure at Total Wine & More, Ryan plays a crucial role in managing the retailer’s extensive wine portfolio, helping consumers find great wines at every price point.

Jusden Aumand

Head of Buying at Tri-Vin Imports, Inc

With extensive experience in sourcing and selecting wines for import, Jusden brings an invaluable perspective to the judging panel, particularly from the importation side of the business.

Scott Barber

President at Green Pin Wines

Scott, a seasoned wine executive, oversees Green Pin Wines and brings with him years of expertise in helping emerging wine brands grow.

Jienna Basaldu

Sommelier and Wine Educator

As a certified sommelier and wine educator, Jienna brings a wealth of knowledge about wine education and the consumer experience, focusing on helping people understand and appreciate the art of winemaking.

Emily Carlson

Wine Buyer at Last Bottle, Inc.

Emily curates an exceptional portfolio of wines at Last Bottle, focusing on unique selections that captivate consumers and offer great value.

Spreti J. Valente, CS

Certified Sommelier, Wine Competition Chair, and Promoter

Spreti has a long history of promoting wine and spirits through her roles as a certified sommelier and competition chair, ensuring that the best wines shine through.

Hady Kahale

Director of Wine Buying and Planning at Naked Wines USA

Hady brings his expertise from Naked Wines USA, where he focuses on sourcing innovative wines from independent winemakers.

Susan Lin MW

Master of Wine

Susan Lin, with her Master of Wine credential, specializes in sourcing top wines and provides a keen eye for quality and authenticity in the wines she evaluates.

Peter Marks MW

Master of Wine

As a highly respected Master of Wine, Peter has decades of experience judging wine competitions and advising on wine portfolios for major retailers.

Bob Paulinski MW

Master of Wine and Founder of MOXIE Wine Group

Bob’s industry experience spans decades, and as a Master of Wine, he has worked with various brands to develop market strategies and bring unique wines to the U.S.

Kristen Zuver

Director of Purchasing at Bounty Hunter Wine and Spirits

Kristen’s work with Bounty Hunter allows her to source premium wines that appeal to connoisseurs and collectors, ensuring that high-quality selections are always available.

Dr. Liz Thach, MW

Master of Wine, Professor, Wine Writer & Consultant, President of Wine Market Council

As a Master of Wine and President of the Wine Market Council, Dr. Liz Thach brings unparalleled expertise in understanding both consumer trends and wine quality. Her role as an educator and consultant makes her an influential voice in the wine industry, ensuring that only the finest wines earn accolades.

Thomas Gregory

Vice President of Food and Beverage at Pacifica Hotels

Thomas plays a critical role at Pacifica Hotels, curating beverage programs across a network of hotels. His deep understanding of what works for on-premise channels will help identify wines that stand out in restaurant and hospitality settings.

James Kung

Wine & Spirits Specialist at DFS Group Limited

James’ experience in the luxury wine and spirits sector with DFS Group brings a unique perspective to the panel. He specializes in sourcing premium products for discerning global travelers and consumers, making him a key judge for wines aimed at the high-end market.

For producers, this competition offers the opportunity to have their wines evaluated by top retail buyers and industry professionals who understand what makes a wine successful in the marketplace. With a focus on quality, value, and presentation, the USA Wine Ratings is a platform that helps brands stand out in an ever-competitive market.

The competition is now open for super early bird entry, wine brands around the world can take advantage of the early discounts.

Also Read:
USA Wine Ratings: Judged By Top Retail Buyers
Behind the Scenes: Conversation with Eduardo Dingler, VP at Wine Access & USA Wine Ratings Judge
Behind the Scenes: A Conversation with Susan R Lin, MW and USA Wine Ratings Judge