The upcoming competition, 'Wine + Dessert Latvia 2026,' will take place on February 23 at the Whitehouse restaurant in Riga, and aims to discover the best wine and dessert pairings. Thirteen teams have registered to showcase their unique creations, highlighting the artistic and culinary expertise involved in crafting these pairings. This event is poised to not only celebrate the synergy of flavors but also promote the gastronomic culture of Latvia.

A distinguished panel of judges, consisting of renowned figures from the culinary arts and wine industries, will be evaluators for the contest. Among them is René Frank, the chef and founder of the two-Michelin-star restaurant 'CODA' in Berlin and a multiple World’s Best Pastry Chef award winner. Additionally, Raimonds Tomsons, who was named the world’s best sommelier in 2023, and Amy Wislocki, editor of 'Decanter' magazine with over 25 years of experience in international wine journalism, will contribute their expertise to the judging process, underscoring the high level of professional recognition associated with this event.

Notably, this competition is unique in the world, and it provides a platform for top pastry chefs and sommeliers from leading Latvian restaurants to present their expertly crafted desserts paired with selected wines. This initiative not only showcases local talent but also positions Latvia on the global culinary map, potentially attracting further interest in its gastronomic scene and fostering international recognition for its culinary innovations.