It was a great pleasure to read that Michelin has honoured Ersin Topkara with the Michelin Sommelier Award 2026 in Türkiye.

Ersin represented the Bailliage of Türkiye at the 2025 International Final of the Jeunes Sommeliers Competition which the Bailliage of Switzerland had the pleasure of hosting in Geneva last September.

The announcement of the award to Ersin was part of the wider Michelin Guide Türkiye 2026 selection, revealed in late 2025, which celebrated the nation's growing culinary scene.

The citation read, “The Michelin Sommelier Award 2026 was given to Ersin Topkara, the acclaimed sommelier of Neolokal Restaurant in Istanbul which is a Michelin 1-star and Michelin 1-Green-star establishment. Topkara's wine list, distinguished by his deep knowledge of Turkish wines, impressively showcases the richness of Türkiye's wine-growing regions. Since his return to Neolokal, inspectors have been further impressed by his ability to select wines that not only complement the dishes but also tell the restaurant's story. His pairings are a testament to meticulous research, a sensitive palate, and a strong commitment to promoting Turkish wine culture.”

Having dined at the Neonlokal last October, my wife and I can only confirm this accolade.

Ersin, congratulations for this prestigious award and a lot of success in the future!

Thomas Kuhn
Bailli Délégué of Switzerland
Member of the Conseil Magistral

Ed. International Vice-President Marie Jones, who is Chair of the Jeunes Sommeliers Competition Committee, added that she too was delighted to learn of the accolade for Ersin. She said, “It was a pleasure to meet Ersin - together with all the competitors - in Geneva at the time of the 2025 International Final. Just like Ersin’s achievement, I wish all of them success in their respective careers.”