Overview

Established in 2024, the Young Members Circle (YMC) is a chapter of the International Wine & Food Society (IWFS), created to cultivate the next generation of wine enthusiasts. Based in NYC, the YMC launched last September with a landmark event at the New York Yacht Club, where members were guided through a tasting of Cheval Blanc and Château d'Yquem by Pierre Lurton. The evening was a convergence of passions: Pierre’s love of sailing, the storied heritage of the Yacht Club, and the emergence of a vibrant new community of wine lovers.

The YMC’s affiliation with the IWFS is both fitting and foundational. When the IWFS was established in 1933, it was the only global society of gastronomic appreciation independent of commercial ties to the wine and food industries. While today there are countless such organizations, the IWFS remains the world’s most far-reaching and prestigious independent gastronomic society. The YMC carries forward this legacy by championing a spirit of discovery — exploring diverse wine regions and varietals, embracing cultural heritage from around the world, and celebrating the richness of food experiences through a modern, inclusive lens. At its heart is a vibrant community of like-minded young professionals whose shared passion for wine creates an energetic and dynamic social environment.

For additional information, visit the YMC IWFS site or contact us.