The competition saw 16 top sommeliers from Michelin-starred and top restaurants across the UK battle it out in a series of anonymous written tests, including blind tastings and food and wine pairings.

Of his win Montone said: “I felt a great deal of pressure this year to get into the final, having been the runner-up last year, and once through to that, I felt much stronger.

“I have worked very hard over the past year to study for this, I see the award as a good point to go further in my career and as a stepping stone to enter more competitions, I am working towards the best Italian Sommelier competition which I hope to do well in this year.”

Three finalists were slected over the course of the final, including Montone, Valentine Rodosa of Dinner by Heston Blumenthal and Jonathan Giffin of China Tang. The winner was chosen by the judges on the basis of their talent, knowledge, skill and personality.

Montone’s prize includes a trip for two with a tour of the Villa Sandi estate, and two nights stay in Venice courtesty of Villa Sandi.

The title is sponsored by premium Prosecco brand Villa Sandi and overseen by the UK Italian Sommelier Association. Bellavita is the largest made in Italy food and wine trade show in the UK and took place at the Business Design Centre in Islington from 17-19 July 2016.