Bailli Délégué Ilse Duponcheel, who is a Member of the Conseil Magistral, told the Chaîne News Online that they are starting an experiment in Belgium which, if it works well, will provide a solution for involving youngsters by developing a unique approach to attract them to participate in our community.

The Bailliage is setting the stage for an exceptional year with two parallel initiatives aimed at fostering excellence and community among Sommeliers and Chaîne members. This dual effort combines cutting-edge training for young Sommeliers with vibrant monthly networking events, creating an unmatched blend of education and camaraderie.

Proactive Masterclass Training for young Sommeliers
As part of the Bailliage’s forward-thinking vision for 2025, the initiative to train young Sommeliers for both national and international competitions will get under way at the Vives Campus in Bruges. A two-hour masterclass, spearheaded by Échanson Dominique Crombé and Bailli of Brussels Beat Kocherhans, will feature real-time learning and a hybrid format for in-person and digital participation. The training will include how to complete a wine evaluation within three minutes.

Chaîne Mondays
Simultaneously, the Bailliage is reaffirming its “Chaîne Mondays” programme of monthly after-work gatherings held at the Warwick Barsey Hotel (381 avenue Louise, Brussels). These gatherings, curated by Bailli of Brussels Beat Kocherhans and Maître Rôtisseur Nicholas Tsiknakos, provide members with an opportunity to relax, network and even stream the Vives masterclass while enjoying delightful refreshments.

Time: 18:30 – 20:30
Location: Charming Bar, Warwick Barsey Hotel, Brussels
Price: 54 Euros for two hours of drinks and bites
Special Features: Convivial atmosphere with great music and international camaraderie
No enrolment required
Contact: Beat Kocherhans (+32 478 907 918)

A unique blend of expertise and community
Bailli Délégué Ilse Duponcheel remarked, “This proactive initiative combines the energy of aspiring talents, the wisdom of seasoned professionals and the unique camaraderie of the Chaîne community. It’s an opportunity to grow, learn, and celebrate what makes the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs and the OMGD (Ordre Mondial des Gourmets Dégustateurs) so special - both nationally and internationally.

Special thanks go to the Vives Campus and Maître Restaurateur Baptiste Van Steenkiste for their invaluable support in bringing this vision to life.”

Invitation
Whether in Bruges or Brussels, or digitally, the Bailliage of Belgium warmly invites members, candidates, and guests to participate in these exceptional events. For enquiries and registrations, please contact Ilse Duponcheel at [email protected].