KEDGE Wine School student Mariia Nikandrova wins Tomorrow Wine 2026

11/03/2026
Mariia Nikandrova, a student at KEDGE Wine School in Bordeaux, has won the Tomorrow Wine 2026 competition, organised by Vinventions during the Wine Paris trade fair. Her innovative project, Terroir Nomad, earned her a €10,000 grant and dedicated support to further develop the initiative.

An innovative project connecting young people with vineyards

Terroir Nomad is a digital platform designed to organise volunteer stays in wine estates, inspired by the concept of wwoofing. The project connects wine estates committed to sustainable practices with young people aged 18–35 eager to gain hands-on experience in vineyards and wineries. The initiative aims to make the world of wine more accessible and engaging for younger generations while offering them an immersive experience in the realities of wine production. 

Through this project, Mariia hopes to contribute to a new perception of wine, as a living, accessible and sustainable culture.

Tomorrow Wine: encouraging innovation in the wine industry

Launched in 2019 by Vinventions, the Tomorrow Wine competition highlights innovative projects developed by students specialising in wine business and marketing. Supported by partners including La Revue du Vin de France, Vitijob and the Bernard Magrez Start-Up Win incubator, the programme aims to foster new ideas capable of connecting the wine industry with evolving consumer expectations.

For the 2026 edition, forty projects were submitted, with five finalist teams pitching their ideas to a panel of industry experts In February at Wine Paris. Terroir Nomad ultimately convinced the jury with its strong vision and potential impact. Thanks to the prize, Mariia will benefit not only from the €10,000 grant awarded by Vinventions, but also from entrepreneurial support within the Bernard Magrez Start-Up Win incubator to accelerate the development of her platform.

A committed KEDGE Wine School student

Currently enrolled in the Wine & Spirits management programme at KEDGE Wine School, Mariia developed the project on her own initiative before receiving guidance from faculty members at KEDGE Wine School. Her preparation for the final included market research among young wine enthusiasts and intensive coaching ahead of the pitch. Her presentation - delivered in French, English and Russian - impressed the jury and demonstrated both her commitment and international outlook.

Mariia’s achievement reflects the entrepreneurial spirit and global perspective encouraged within the KEDGE Wine School community.