The Bailliage of Belgium is proud to announce Colin Lurot as the winner of the 2026 National Final of the Jeunes Sommeliers Competition held on March 22nd at Horeca Forma BE PRO in Brussels.

For Colin, this victory has a very special meaning. After participating for the third time, his perseverance, passion and professional growth have brought him to the top. Colin’s journey is exactly what this competition stands for: commitment, learning, resilience and the courage to keep refining one’s craft.

Colin describes himself simply and beautifully as “a lover of wine” with the daily ambition to share, listen and help. That spirit was clearly present throughout the competition. Colin’s enthusiasm, calm professionalism and genuine love for hospitality made him a strong and inspiring ambassador for the next generation of sommeliers.

Based in Namur, Colin combines hands-on sommelier expertise with commercial and marketing experience. He is currently Sales and Marketing Manager at Grafe Lecocq and also works independently through “Wine Passion by Colin” offering wine service, training, tastings and consultancy.

Colin’s background includes experience as Sommelier at L’Eau Vive in Profondeville, also at Sanglier des Ardennes in Durbuy and from providing freelance sommelier services in respected restaurants. He also holds the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Level 3 and is continuing his wine education as a WSET Diploma student.

The Bailliage sees in Colin a bright, motivated and generous professional. Someone who understands that wine is never only about knowledge. It’s about connection, elegance and service.

We now look forward with great excitement to seeing Colin represent Belgium on the international stage in Båstad, Sweden. Whatever the result, Colin already carries with him the energy, pride and craftsmanship of the Belgian hospitality community.

Congratulations, Colin. Belgium is proud of you ... and the journey continues!

Vive la Chaîne!

Ilse Duponcheel
Bailli Délégué
Member of the Conseil Magistral