The Dilmah Natural Luxury Sommelier Challenge, a renowned tribute to tea, artistry, and service, had an impressive inaugural event in the Maldives during FHAM 2025.

Hosted by Dilmah Ceylon Tea in collaboration with SIMDI Group, the competition gathered many of the Maldives' finest culinary and beverage experts for a display of skill and creativity.

Created to be more than merely a contest, the Challenge functioned as an engaging platform to rethink the role of tea in culinary arts and visitor experiences. Through the blend of culinary creativity, drink innovation, and outstanding service, the event sought to promote sustainability, imagination, and genuineness throughout the Maldivian hospitality sector.

Spanning two days, the Sommelier Challenge presented an innovative team-oriented format with culinary and beverage experts collaborating, a first for FHAM. This teamwork emphasized the mutual creativity of chefs and sommeliers, showcasing how expertly curated tea pairings can enhance narrative and sensory moments at the dining experience.

Being the sole paired competition at FHAM 2025, the event distinguished itself through its emphasis on synergy, creativity, and innovation, establishing a new benchmark for upcoming culinary exhibitions in the Maldives.

The event concluded with a distinguished awards ceremony, recognizing individuals and teams that showcased exceptional talent, creativity, and enthusiasm.