Weinberg Arlberg Supports Emerging Talent in the Wine Industry

Some encounters leave a lasting impression. A conversation opens up a new perspective, a wine sparks an idea, and shared enthusiasm creates new opportunities. Weinberg Arlberg wants to give young professionals the chance to gain inspiration and build valuable connections at the international wine gathering in Lech Zürs. Through its  Circle of Talents initiative, up to ten emerging talents from the wine industry will be invited to take part in this exceptional event.

Together with media partner  Kalk&Kegel , Weinberg Arlberg is launching the initiative for the first time. It is aimed at young professionals who are still in the early stages of their careers in winemaking, sommellerie, gastronomy, wine trading, wine journalism or wine communications. What matters most is potential, curiosity and the ambition to make a difference.

Five Days at the Heart of the Wine World

Ten selected talents will be invited to Weinberg Arlberg in Lech Zürs from  December 5–9, 2026 . They will join the press programme, which combines professional tastings, discussions and wine dinners.

Highlights include the Grand Opening Bordeaux with Neal Martin and Châteaux Pichon Comtesse, La Conseillante and Figeac; rare Ports presented by the Douro Boys; and tastings dedicated to Riesling, Furmint, Alsace and Blaufränkisch. Discussions on anti-alcohol campaigns, the future of great wine regions and how to engage a new generation will address issues directly relevant to the participants’ professional lives.

Equally important is the opportunity to connect personally with international wine experts, leading producers and fellow participants.

Accommodation at a partner hotel and meals are included.  The invitation is valued at €3,500 per person , with participants only responsible for their travel expenses.

A Network That Continues to Grow

The Circle of Talents is designed as a long-term initiative. Each year, ten new talents will be selected to join the Circle for a period of three years. Over time, this will create a growing community that connects people, experiences and opportunities across professions and national borders.

Looking ahead, mentoring, workshops, international experiences and collaborative projects will support members in their personal and professional development.

Two Minutes Towards Your Next Step

To apply, candidates simply need to submit a  CV and a video of no more than two minutes , introducing their motivation, ambitions and the contribution they hope to make to the Circle.

Applications must be sent to  weinbergarlberg@wine-partners.at  by  November 6, 2026 .

An independent six-member jury will select the participants:

• Sabine Bauer-Wolf  – RotWeissRosé / Austrian Wine

• Roland Graf  – Falstaff Profi

• Alexander Koblinger  – Döllerers

• Sonja Planeta  – Kalk & Kegel

• Sonja Rauch  – Geschwister Rauch

• Christian Zechmeister  – Austrian Wine Academy

The jury will evaluate applications using a points-based scoring system. The ten selected talents will be notified by  November 13, 2026 , giving them time to prepare for their journey to Lech.