A Cork in the Road is Co-Creator of Sommlympics - a one-day competition where teams of three wine professionals compete in blind tasting, theory, and service with each teammate tackling one event. Designed to celebrate skill, strategy, and community, Sommlympics brings people together through spirited challenges, shared passion, and a few surprise twists along the way. The concept came to life in 2023 when Chelsea Young the founder of The Oenophile Institute, teamed up with Kelly of A Cork in the Road. Together, they envisioned something that celebrated community, showcased talent, and made learning fun again.

The first Sommlympics was scrappy, hosted at The Oenophile Institute with just a few teams, some borrowed glassware, and a roomful of local wine lovers. But the energy? Electric. Service challenges, blind tasting, wine theory—it was part competition, part variety show, and all heart. By its second year, Sommlympics had grown exponentially. The event brought in competitors from 7 states, a judging panel, sponsors, and prizes that turned heads (Champagne trips, anyone?). The third edition of Sommlympics concluded on January 11, 2026 at FORTH Hotel in Atlanta, and it brought together 36 elite wine professionals from 14 states competing before an audience of nearly 100 spectators. Sommlympics will return to Atlanta on January 10, 2027 for its fourth iteration at Hotel Phoenix Atlanta continuing its mission to elevate wine education, celebrate professional excellence, and build community across the industry.