Excerpt from the current article in HARBOR Magazine:
Things were heating up in the tasty water world that came to life in Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain, at the end of April! Together with the culinary geniuses of the renowned Basque Culinary Center (BCC) and with the support of TOB Strategy and Solan de Cabras, the Summit became a true experience of knowledge, inspiration and, of course, enjoyment.
A highlight of the water spectacle was undoubtedly the TASTE & DESIGN AWARDS 2024, where the most exquisite premium waters in the world were crowned. An international jury consisting of certified water sommeliers from around the world - from Japan to South Africa to the USA - judged the taste and design of these precious liquids according to professional criteria. Among the members of the jury was the well-known water sommelier Pat Eckert, who delighted the audience with his expertise and dry humor.
Exploring the world of water with the devotion of a thirsty man , Pat Eckert is known for his tireless search for the perfect water experience. Since founding Fine Liquids in 2018 , he has revolutionized the water landscape - and far beyond still water and FIJI! With his keen eye for detail, he expanded his work to the United Kingdom in 2020 and launched the Fine Liquids Community in 2021, a monthly live show in which international water sommeliers share their latest discoveries.
In 2022, he made an appearance at the "BLED Water Festival" and perfected his skills as a certified water sommelier at the "Fine Water Academy" in the USA. Since then, he has conducted countless water tastings across Europe - from Belgium to Copenhagen, and even at the exclusive gala dinners of the "FINE WATER SUMMIT" 2023 and 2024, where he shone not only as co -host, but also as the creative mind of the event alongside the world's leading water sommelier Dr. Michael Mascha.
In addition to shipping exquisite waters, he also advises water companies, restaurateurs and the hotel industry - and in 2023, after years of planning and perfection, he launched his own brand "Aqa Finelli" , a revolutionary concept water that has taken the fine dining industry by storm.
