The first contest was held in 2009 in Tokyo, Japan by Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (A.S.I).

Every 3 years candidates will meet for three days of high-level tests, tasting, service tasks – all aimed at putting them in professional situations to test their skills and abilities. Candidates are from association members of A.S.I, together with the three-continent winners of A.S.I Best Sommelier of Europe and Africa, A.S.I Best Sommelier of the Americas and A.S.I Best Sommelier of Asia & Oceania assemble to vie for the title of Best Sommelier of The World.