[SA] National Benchmarking Workshop 2026 – Cabernet Sauvignon

In partnership with Penfolds, Sommeliers Australia invites you to attend the National Benchmarking Workshop—an immersive tasting experience dedicated to wine at its highest level, through the lens of one of the world’s most powerful black grape varieties, Cabernet Sauvignon.

This exclusive workshop is designed for driven wine professionals looking to elevate their craft. Combining key elements from the Len Evans Tutorial and the Sommeliers Australia Education Scholarship, it moves beyond theory into sensory evaluation and focused, palate-driven learning.

Expect a rigorous blind tasting of 12 of the world’s greatest Cabernets, animated discussion, and expert guidance—all aimed at challenging your perspective and benchmarking your tasting skills against the highest standards.

Think of it as a masterclass that goes further. The National Benchmarking Workshop is led by some of the most respected voices in Australian wine: Louella Mathews (Trippas White Group and 2023 LET Scholar), Seth Piszczuk (Crafers Hotel and 2025 Sommeliers Australia Education Scholar), Cynthia Gemus (Wine Educator Negociants Australia and Samuel Smith & Sons) and Shavaughn Wells (Penfolds Wines, Senior Winemaker and 2008 LET Scholar).

More than education, this is about confidence, curiosity, and community. Whether you’re refining your palate, deepening your judgement, or stepping into the next chapter of your career, this is a rare opportunity to invest in yourself—supported by a network that believes in the power of tasting, mentorship, and excellence.

To ensure the Adelaide wine community is supported through this exclusive experience, places are limited.