Wine Judging Panel Profile: Rhys Pender MW
Rhys Pender MW, a renowned figure in the global wine industry, has been announced as a judge for the prestigious 2025 Drummond World Wine Awards (DWWA). This marks Pender's second time judging at the DWWA, having first served in 2011.
Pender, who hails from Canada, has been an integral part of the wine industry since his teenage years. His extensive experience and knowledge have earned him the title of Master of Wine (MW), making him Canada's youngest ever to achieve this prestigious accolade in 2010.
In addition to his role at the DWWA, Pender judges wine competitions internationally, including the DWWA, TexSom International Wine Awards, and the British Columbia Wine Awards in Canada. His expertise is highly sought after, reflecting his commitment to promoting and celebrating the best wines from around the world.
Pender is not only a judge but also a grape grower, farmer, educator, and writer. He operates a small four-acre vineyard and winery in the Similkameen Valley - Little Farm Winery. His passion for wine extends beyond production, as he is also the founder of Wine Plus+, a WSET wine school and consultancy. Through Wine Plus+, Pender shares his knowledge and love for wine with others, helping to educate and inspire a new generation of wine enthusiasts.
Pender's contributions to the wine industry are not limited to his work in Canada. He has completed a professional culinary diploma and all levels of the Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET), and his writings can be found in various publications such as WineAlign.com, Macleans, Montecristo, SIP, and Taste.
When he's not busy judging wine competitions or running his vineyard and winery, Pender can be found on Instagram and Twitter under the handles @wineplus and X, where he shares his thoughts, experiences, and insights about the world of wine.
For those interested in learning more about the 2025 DWWA judges, the official DWWA website or related publications may provide further information. The list of judges for the 2025 DWWA can be found elsewhere. With Pender's involvement, the awards promise to be a celebration of the finest wines from around the world.
Rhys Pender MW's involvement in the 2025 Drummond World Wine Awards indicates a fusion of food-and-drink and lifestyle, showcasing the best wines as a highlight of education-and-self-development. Beyond his judging duties, Pender, a grape grower, farmer, educator, and writer, continues to promote and celebrate wines through his vineyard, winery, and Wine Plus+ wine school.
