The USA Wine Ratings is more than just a competition. It’s an opportunity for wine brands to stand out in front of industry heavyweights who understand the nuances of marketability and consumer appeal.

2025 judges include wine buyers from Giant Eagle, Southeastern Grocers, Albertsons, Total Wine and More, Wine.com, K&L Wine Merchants, Liquor Stores USA North Inc., Grocery Outlet, Last Bottle, Inc, Noe Valley Wine & Spirits, Naked Wines, Hunter Wine and Spirits, DFS Group Limited, Trader Joe's and more.

This competition rewards wines that are not just great in taste but also resonate with their target audience and find success in retail and hospitality environments. Below is an expanded list of judges, their affiliations, and insights into their organizations, along with their professional backgrounds.

1. Kimberly Shannon, Beer, Wine, and Liquor Specialist at Giant Eagle, Inc. 

Headquartered in Pittsburgh, Giant Eagle is a regional grocery chain offering a comprehensive selection of beer, wine, and spirits. The company is recognized for its customer-focused initiatives and staff training programs.

Kimberly brings 16 years of expertise and multiple certifications, including WSET Level 3 and Certified Specialist of Spirits. She excels in developing programs that enhance the customer shopping experience while educating staff on wine and spirits.

2. Henry Brimo, Wine Category Manager at Southeastern Grocers

Operating grocery chains like Winn-Dixie and Fresco y Más, Southeastern Grocers is a major retailer in the southeastern United States. Its wine program focuses on providing diverse options to meet the needs of a wide range of customers.

Henry is a certified WSET educator and a Stage 2 Master of Wine candidate. His academic achievements include a hospitality management degree and an MBA with a concentration in Business Intelligence. He leverages this knowledge to lead Southeastern Grocers' wine initiatives and deliver exceptional customer experiences.

3. Dejah S. Overby, Wine and Spirits Specialist at K&L Wine Merchants

Founded in 1976, K&L Wine Merchants is a premier wine retailer with locations in California and a reputation for sourcing fine wines from around the globe. The company prides itself on offering exceptional customer service and competitive pricing.

Dejah combines her strong culinary background with expertise in catering, hospitality, and event management. She is passionate about connecting customers with wines that suit their preferences and occasions. At K&L, she ensures that clients receive expert advice and an unparalleled wine-shopping experience.

4. Bruce Abbott, President at Liquor Stores USA North Inc.

With operations spanning across Alaska and beyond, Liquor Stores USA North Inc. is a key player in the wine and spirits retail market. The company is known for its diverse portfolio and customer-focused initiatives.

Bruce Abbott started his career as a bartender in Alaska, which gave him a deep understanding of customer preferences and trends in the beverage industry. From managing Brown Jug’s 7,000-product inventory to overseeing Liquor Stores USA, Bruce brings over 17 years of hands-on expertise in wine and spirits.

5. Donald Norton, President at Noe Valley Wine & Spirits

Located in the vibrant Noe Valley neighborhood of San Francisco, this independent wine and spirits shop is known for its handpicked selections, personalized service, and commitment to community engagement.

With almost 20 years of experience in wine sales and account management, Donald has a knack for understanding customer needs. He specializes in wine education, food pairing, and event planning, offering a full-spectrum service to wine enthusiasts. His leadership at Noe Valley Wine & Spirits has elevated the store's reputation as a trusted destination for quality wines.

6. Steve Beckner, CSW, Wine & Spirits Buyer at Grocery Outlet

A unique retailer, Grocery Outlet specializes in offering heavily discounted products, including wines, spirits, and food items. The company’s business model allows producers to clear excess inventory while giving customers significant savings.

Steve has an eye for value and quality, ensuring that Grocery Outlet customers enjoy premium wines at unbeatable prices. His expertise in sourcing discounted products and closeouts has helped Grocery Outlet carve a niche in the competitive wine market.

7. Ryan Anderson, Wine Manager at Total Wine & More

As one of the largest wine and spirits retailers in the U.S., Total Wine & More operates in over 25 states, offering a vast selection of wines, spirits, and beers. The company emphasizes education and customer experience through classes and in-store events.

Ryan has over eight years of management experience in the hospitality and retail sectors. He oversees one of the company’s highest-volume locations, developing sales strategies and managing a team of more than 20 people. His ability to connect with both staff and customers makes him a standout leader in the wine retail industry.

8. Emily Carlson, Wine Buyer at Last Bottle, Inc.

Last Bottle specializes in flash sales of high-quality wines, offering exclusive deals to wine enthusiasts. The company prides itself on providing access to exceptional wines at discounted prices.

Emily’s approach to wine buying combines her hospitality experience with a passion for sharing knowledge. She believes in fostering a sense of community through wine, whether in Michelin-starred restaurants or volunteering with Meals on Wheels.

9. Hady Kahale, Director of Wine Buying and Planning at Naked Wines USA

Naked Wines connects winemakers directly with consumers, offering high-quality wines at competitive prices. The company emphasizes transparency, innovation, and community support for independent winemakers.

Hady is a seasoned executive with over 20 years of experience in business strategy, marketing, and sales within the wine industry. His leadership at Naked Wines USA focuses on supporting winemakers and ensuring customers enjoy unique and memorable wine experiences.

10. Kristen Zuver, Director of Purchasing at Bounty Hunter Wine and Spirits

Located in Napa Valley, Bounty Hunter is a premium retailer offering an exclusive selection of wines, spirits, and curated gift sets. The company is known for its meticulous selection process and commitment to quality.

Kristen’s expertise lies in sourcing exceptional wines and building unique collections that appeal to a discerning clientele. Her leadership in purchasing ensures that Bounty Hunter consistently delivers top-tier products to its customers.

11. James Kung, Wine & Spirits Specialist at DFS Group Limited

DFS Group is one of the world's leading luxury travel retailers, operating across major airports and downtown locations globally. The company offers a curated selection of premium wines, spirits, and luxury goods, catering to international travelers.

James Kung plays a critical role in shaping the wine and spirits portfolio at DFS Group. His expertise in understanding the preferences of a global clientele helps in delivering world-class experiences. As a Wine & Spirits Specialist, he ensures that every product meets the highest standards of quality and appeal.

Each judge brings a unique perspective to the USA Wine Ratings, ensuring that only the most marketable and consumer-friendly wines are celebrated. Don’t miss the chance to showcase your wine to top retail buyers and industry experts at the USA Wine Ratings. Enter before December 20, 2024, to take advantage of the Super Early Bird discount and position your wine for recognition and success.

This competition rewards wines that excel in quality, value, and packaging - key factors that influence both retailers and consumers. Submit your entry today and ensure your brand gets the visibility it deserves in front of decision-makers who shape the wine market. Enter now to save and make your mark!

Also Read:
Meet the Buyer: Insights from Greg Richtarek, Wine Manager at Safeway Stores
Meet the Buyer: Emily Carlson, Wine Buyer at Last Bottle, Inc.
Meet the Buyer: Insights from Jusden Aumand, USA Wine Ratings Judge