Gastronomy and Wine Portal

A highlight in the international wine calendar was the tasting held in honor of the Wine Travel Awards Ceremony at the prestigious London Wine Fair. The event attracted distinguished guests, including sommeliers, distributors, association heads, MWs, and wine tourism operators from the USA, China, New Zealand, Great Britain, and other European countries.

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Wines from six countries were featured in the celebratory tasting, including star locations of wine tourism in Georgia, the castles of Moldova and Romania, a model winery in Great Britain, and one of the leaders in winemaking from New Zealand. The youngest participant was the Italian winery Tenuta Manoylo from the Marche region, which debuted on the world stage this year. It has already earned the nickname “star of the region” by winning top awards at the prestigious international competition Mundus Vini and, just a few days ago, securing a gold medal at the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles in Mexico.

To analyze this young brand, D+ reviewers requested the main speaker of our event, Robert Joseph, to comment on the wines of Tenuta Manoylo, the winner of this Wine Travel Awards 2023-2024 edition in the Progressive Approach category.

Despite the impromptu nature of the discussion, Robert Joseph examined the style and quality of the three wines presented at the Wine Travel Awards with his characteristic professional meticulousness.

2021 Tenuta Manoylo, Passo del Borgo, Marche IGT Passerina (€81- 6 bottles)

• Appearance:  Straw, with hints of green.
• Nose: Lovely fresh nose with lemon, lime, grapefruit and angelica root as well as a hint of wild thyme and sage.
• Palate: the citric promise carries through, though with lime coming to the fore. The herbs are there too, with some very attractive stony, salty character.  Medium-bodied and bone dry, but the acidity is wrapped in attractive rich texture and a very long finish. Very attractive food wine.

2021 Tenuta Manoylo, Passo del Borgo, Marche DOC Falerio (€113 – 6 bottles)

• Appearance: Straw –slightly deeper in hue than the Passerina. But still hints of green.
• Nose: Ripe lemon and lemon curd /preserved lemons on the nose plus some floral notes and peach and saline character.
• Palate: Lemony and bright but with some green olive fleshiness and definite mineral notes. This is richer and rounder than the Passerina and tastes as though it has seen some wood. The finish is rich and long and, again evocative of those preserved lemons.

2021 Tenuta Manoylo, Passo del Borgo, Marche IGT Sangiovese (€170 – 6 bottles)

• Appearance: Mid red colour with rim showing the beginning of maturity.
• Nose: Attractive nose of plum and cherry, ripe strawberry, with some sandalwood and vanilla.
• Palate: Τhe same fruits are there, with the ripe strawberry very apparent along with pepper and herbs – oregano – and some well-integrated oak. The tannins are ripe and with characteristic Sangiovese dryness.   I am curious to see how this will age and how the fruit and alcohol will hang together.

General impression

I was especially impressed by both whites and, in particular, the Passerina which is a very well made, characterful wine which deserves to do well in restaurants everywhere, but especially those specialising in fish and seafood.

The Pecorino is also very good. I was interested to see that it is aged in tonneau. I thought I detected a hint of newer oak and would not have minded a very slight bit more.

Based on the website prices, I thought the Passerina very fairly priced – at a premium level.

This is a business and brand that appears to be going / has gone through some changes. The shaped ‘front’ label design is clever and stylish.

To summarize Robert Joseph’s comments, Tenuta Manoylo has successfully passed another authoritative quality test. Receiving a high rating from a specialist of this level is another road sign for professional clients and wine lovers.

A highlight in the international wine calendar was the tasting held in honor of the Wine Travel Awards Ceremony at the prestigious London Wine Fair. The event attracted distinguished guests, including sommeliers, distributors, association heads, MWs, and wine tourism operators from the USA, China, New Zealand, Great Britain, and other European countries. Wines from six […]

On June 29, the Vivanco Museum, one of the biggest icons of wine culture in the world, will celebrate its anniversary. Everyone is invited to join the celebration.

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Vivanco Museum, a nominee and winner of the Wine Travel Awards public vote, is celebrating its anniversary and offers a unique opportunity to discover the winery and the museum, considered by UNESCO to be the best in the world, for free.

This place was created to educate, educate, share and interact with wine as an element of civilization. And for 20 years now, the wine museum in Briones has been opening a universe of wine sensations to visitors through the winery, the museum, the tasting courses and the restaurant, in a privileged setting, surrounded by vineyards.

“I wanted to create a space that everyone could visit and understand the close and special relationship between wine and man,” says Sen. Santiago Vivanco, author and founder of Vivanco.

Santiago Vivanco says that his passion for wine passed to him from his father, who was an oenologist and also collected everything related to wine. “For me, wine has always been about more than just aroma, taste and texture. Much more than vineyards and lands. I’ve always been interested in the human side of wine and the 8,000-year history it shares with man.”

The museum occupies an area of 4000 m2, including 5 permanent exhibition halls and a hall for temporary exhibitions. In addition to the demonstration of the tools of the trade and the description of the history of winemaking, Vivanco also presents works of art that illustrate the inspiration of artists by wine, it houses works by Pablo Picasso, Joaquín Sorolla, Joan Miró, Juan Gris. It is difficult to find a better example where winemaking and art go hand in hand so harmoniously.

At Vivanco, you can learn about the origin of wine, about grape soils in every part of the world, about the origin and development of Rioja, what phylloxera is, how vineyards are cultivated and much more. In the Garden of Bacchus you will find more than 220 varieties of grapes from all over the world. After a spiritual meal, visitors can discover the gastronomy of La Rioja in the panoramic restaurant of fine cuisine.

So June 29, Briones, Nacional 232.

Come to a free open day.

Vivanco Museum is 20 years old!

On June 29, the Vivanco Museum, one of the biggest icons of wine culture in the world, will celebrate its anniversary. Everyone is invited to join the celebration. Vivanco Museum, a nominee and winner of the Wine Travel Awards public vote, is celebrating its anniversary and offers a unique opportunity to discover the winery and […]

For the third year running, the Wine Travel Awards Ceremony and Public Voting awards celebration took place alongside the renowned London Wine Fair, solidifying the enduring collaboration between Drinks+ Communication Media Group and this prestigious event.

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This occasion was infused with an air of exhilaration and unity, a true testament to the Wine Travel Awards’ mission of fostering a warm and inclusive community. Familiar faces reunited, while new connections blossomed, all bonded by their shared passion for the wonders of wine travel. It was a delightful atmosphere of friendship and celebration.

Angelo Peretti, the esteemed winner of the Author of the Year category, eloquently captured the spirit of the event: I am happy, overjoyed. Robert Joseph, one of the world’s leading international wine critics and analysts, has just presented me with the author of the year award in the wine and food influencer category at the Wine Travel Awards at the London Wine Fair for my book Spiritual Exercises for Wine Drinkers (Ampelos Editions). Thank you, thank you, thank you! <…> It was a great honor to receive the ‘author of the year’ award, to have the chance to listen to Robert Joseph’s enlightening speech and taste the splendid selection of wines offered during the event.

Truly, the Wine Travel Awards represent a close-knit community of individuals united by their fascination with the diverse world of wine travel and exploration.

The Wine Travel Awards 2023-2024 ceremony was one of the most exciting international events at the London Trade Fair. Even the location testified to the status of the event — the WTA winners were gathered in the Gallery Suite, where the jury of this year’s most high-profile event in the entire wine world, the London Court of Justice, had just met.

And it was in this representative hall that our hosts, Anna Petunina, WTA Senior Manager, a communication specialist at Drinks+ Communication Media Group, and Tanya Olevskaya, the Friends Wine Travel CEO, and the winner of last season’s WTA, started the ceremony.

All of our events contain at least two options in one — being gorgeous and useful. Therefore, this time, the award ceremony was preceded by an informative lecture. We are proud that the main speaker of the Wine Travel Awards 2023–2024 was the incredible Robert Joseph, whom our entire female team adores!

Robert Joseph is a distinguished member of the WTA jury, editorial consultant, and columnist for Meininger’s Wine Business International, whose expertise and insights have proven invaluable throughout this journey.

He spoke on the topic Wine Tourism: Benefits and Challenges about the growing industry of wine tourism, focusing on the positive impacts it brings as well as the difficulties it faces. Mr Joseph’s humour and brilliant analyses, original conclusions and recommendations were a real gift for the distinguished audience, including MVs and representatives of the most powerful UK distribution networks, influencers from around the world, winemakers from the USA, Australia, Argentina, and EU countries.

At the same time, Robert Joseph and the Wine Travel Awards team prepared special gifts for our award winners. This year’s unique gifts included certificates for Robert Joseph’s highly anticipated book, Wine Thinking, for each winner — a rare opportunity to delve into this work ahead of its official summer release! The ceremony began with a presentation of each winner and the presentation of the trophy. It is worth noting that this year the largest number of winners came to London to receive their diplomas and awards in person.

We are grateful to everyone who was with us that day: Angelo Peretti, Marinela Ardelean, Daria Kholodilina, Cloudy Bay’s representative Astrid de Jong, SHUMI Winery’s Commercial Director Salome Lomsadze, Miguel Leal, Oleksandra Polishuk (from Vitaliy Kovach), Allison Levine, and Dr. Elizabeth Smith.

And again Angelo Peretti shared his feeling about meeting with friends and colleagues: I met American wine writer Allison Levine during a press tour of US journalists in Italy, a country she knows quite well (and also speaks Italian fluently). I was delighted to find her at the Wine Travel Awards at the London Wine Fair in London. Here we are in the photograph together, she with the diploma of winner of the popular vote in the ‘expert opinion’ category, me with the trophy of winner in the ‘author of the year’ category. Well done, Allison, bravo!

Finally, we appreciated that guests from Tenuta Manoylo (Italy) — Illia Manoylo and Helen Dzekunova — had the ooportunity to be with us at the WTA Ceremony. Also, we were very glad that the WildChina Travel’s (China) representative Kendra Tombolato attended the WTA event. In addition, João Vasconcelos, UK Sales Manager at Fladgate Partnership, visited the WTA Ceremony to get the WOW (Portugal) awards. The prizes for the Imeretian Wine Association and the Kabistoni Wine School, the nominee from Imeretia, were accepted by Ana Tbileli. We were very pleased to meet Jidvei‘s representatives Sabina Stroe-Bibescu and Costi Dragan.

Unfortunately, we won’t be able to convey the atmosphere of friendliness that the WTA community in London demonstrated, but it was evidenced by the pleasant impromptu interactions that took place throughout the event.

Needless to say, Robert Joseph took the initiative to help our moderators during the awards ceremony and even agreed to take a photo with each of our winners, which some of them gratefully shared on their networks.

The last iteration of the WTA showed that the Wine Travel Awards is gaining an international reputation, as evidenced by the presence of diplomatic delegations at the ceremony.

The ceremony witnessed an unprecedented turnout, with nominees and winners gracing the event from far and wide, including esteemed representatives from the embassies of Armenia — His Excellency the Ambassador of the Republic of Armenia to the United Kingdom, Varuzhan Nersesyan, and the Armenian delegation. Also we were very proud to see His Excellency the Ambassador of the Republic of Moldova to London, Mr. Ruslan Bolbocean. And Ms. Laura Banealite, First Secretary for Economic Cooperation of the Embassy of the Republic of Moldova in London.

An interesting fact: distinguished guests, first of all, His Excellencies the Ambassadors of Armenia and Moldova, attended the ceremony to personally receive the trophy for winning the Enogastronomic Events nomination on behalf of their countries. The National Wine Day of Moldova won the Magnet of the Region category, and Yerevan Gastronomic Days won the second category — Event of the Year.

The fact that the ambassadorial delegations headed by His Excellencies the Ambassadors of Armenia and Moldova expressed a desire and found time to carry out this mission speaks of the state’s respect for its citizens. It also shows that the state understands the importance of enogastronomic tourism for the development of the country’s winemaking as a promising economic sector.

One of the winners of the Public Voting in the Top Guide category is Anna Alekseyeva from Italy. Anna is actively engaged in organising enogastronomic tours and excursions in Verona and the Lake Garda area. We are thankful to Anna’s representative, Maria Podlesnova, for visiting the award ceremony.

Our team was very glad to see Meguel Leal — the winner in the category Top Guide (nomination — Wine Guide).

This year, two nominees — SHUMI Winery and Marinela Ardelean — were awarded by Grand Prix of Wine Travel Awards: for exceptional achievement and dedication in advancing the art of viniculture and crafting unforgettable wine tourism experiences. It was the initiative of Dr. Ricardo F. Nunez.

Our sincere appreciation also goes to WTA judge Nina Basset and the Gérard Basset Foundation for providing the memoir book by Gérard Basset, complete with Nina Basset’s autograph, as the esteemed Ambassador of the Year award.

The grand finale of this extraordinary day was a unique tasting experience, featuring an array of exceptional wines from participating wineries:

Tenuta Manoylo (Italy)

1. Passo del Borgo Marche IGT Passerina
2. Falerio DOC Pecorino
3. Marche IGT Sangiovese

Jidvei Winery (România)

1. PINOT NOIR ROSU, 2019 red
2. GRIGORESCU FETEASCA REGALA, 2023, SGR white
3. OWNER’S CHOICE ANA, SAUVIGNON BLANC 2023 white
4. OWNER’S CHOICE MARIA, PINOT GRIS, 2022, white
5. Sparkling Wine, Jidvei, the traditional method, Extrabrut White, DOC-CMD JIDVEI white

Chateau Purcari (Wine of Moldova)

1. Château Purcari Negru de Purcari 2020
2. Château Purcari Rara Neagra 2022
3. Château Purcari Viorica de Purcari 2022

Chateau Vartely (Moldova)

1. Château Vartely Dealu Nucului Cabernet Sauvignon 2021
2. Château Vartely Dealu Nucului Feteasca Regala & Sauvignon Blanc 2023

Radacini (Moldova)

1. Radacini Pinot Grigio
2. Radacini Metier Brut Alb

Apriori Wine (Moldova)

1. Apriori Wine Maestro Limited Edition Secret Blend Bottle Reserve 2022
2. Apriori Wine Maestro Cuvee Blanc Alb Brut

SHUMI Estate (Georgia)

1. Shumi Kakhuri Mtsvane
2. Shumi Mukuzani
3. Sumi Iberiuli Khikhvi
4. Shumi Iberiuli Saperavi

Gramophone Winery (Romania)

1. VIRTUOZ FETEASCA REGALA — DRY 2021
2. VIRTUOZ FETEASCA NEAGRA — OFF DRY 2021
3. GRAMOFON WINE SAUVIGNON BLANC — DRY 2020
4. GRAMOFON WINE CUVEE — MERLOT/FETEASCA NEAGRA/5. CABERNET SAUVIGNON — DRY 2022

Cloudy Bay (New Zealand)

1. Pelorus NV Methode Traditionelle
2. Sauvignon Blanc 2023
3. Te Wahi Pinot Noir 2019

Le Grand Noir (France)

1. Le Grand Noir Chardonnay
2. Le Grand Noir GSM Red Blend

K’AVSHIRI (Georgia)

1. K’AVSHIRI White 2022
2. K’AVSHIRI Assemblage Red

Shaloshvili’s Wine Cellar (Georgia)

1. Kisi Mtsvane White Dry 2021
2. Rkatsiteli Oak Barrel Aged White Dry 2017
3. Saperavi Oak Barrel Aged Red Dry 2018
4. Saperavi QVEVRI 2020

Stay tuned for dedicated articles exploring the captivating stories behind each of these esteemed participating wineries and their enchanting wine destinations. We are preparing a separate article about the wineries that presented their wines at this festive tasting for wine lovers and enogastronomic travellers.

For the third year running, the Wine Travel Awards Ceremony and Public Voting awards celebration took place alongside the renowned London Wine Fair, solidifying the enduring collaboration between Drinks+ Communication Media Group and this prestigious event. This occasion was infused with an air of exhilaration and unity, a true testament to the Wine Travel Awards’ mission of fostering a […]

Traditionally, the awarding ceremony of the winners of the WTA is accompanied by a round tasting of the wines of our nominees. And at the same time it becomes a round-the-world journey through wine routes. And this year the THIRD Edition of WTA Ceremony at the London Wine Fair 2024 promises an exciting lineup of participants, including renowned wineries, emerging brands, and industry experts.

A sophisticated tasting session of wines and WTA winners’ celebration featuring wines from esteemed members of the WTA community from Italy, Romania, New Zealand, Georgia, France, Moldova…

So, let’s get ready for an unforgettable experience at the Wine Travel Awards Ceremony with an awesome agenda!

Join us on May 21 at Gallery Suit, London Wine Fair, Olympia, London from 10:30 to 12:30.

If you would like to be a part of WTA Ceremony in London this year please use this form to contact us for the badge to the exhibition

Or contact personally:

Telephone: +38067 4474578 (Telegram, WhatsApp, Viber) Email: winetravelawards@gmail.com

The Ceremony will start from a keynote address on Wine Tourism: Benefits and Challenges by Robert Joseph, a respected member of the WTA jury, distinguished author in the domain of wine and wine tourism, and a pioneering figure in the wine industry.

Next, after the actual Wine Travel Awards Ceremony, we will start for an exciting experience – the Walk Around Tasting.

Introducing the Participants:

This medieval castle, meticulously restored just last year, invites guests to embark on extraordinary adventures. It boasts breathtaking landscapes, culinary delights in the refined ambiance of its local restaurant, relaxation in a designer hotel, horseback riding, leisurely strolls, and, most importantly, the opportunity to taste an incredibly diverse selection of high-class wines! Jidvei wines (Romania), a distinguished winemaking enterprise, annually processes over 25 million kg of grapes. Since 1999, Jidvei has blended modern techniques with tradition, earning over 500 medals in prestigious international competitions. With four wineries boasting top-tier facilities and 6100 acres of vineyard, Jidvei crafts quality wines reflecting the essence of its terroir.

WTA Ceremony Walk Around Tasting:

• Owner’s Choice – Ana Sauvignon Blanc 2023, Jidvei DOC
• Owner’s Choice – Maria Pinot Gris 2022, Jidvei DOC
• Grigorescu – Fetească Regală 2023, Jidvei DOC
• Traditional Method sparkling wine – Jidvei Extra Brut, Jidvei DOC
• Jidvei Pinot Noir 2019 – DOC Târnave – Jidvei

Our new WTA participant Gramofon Wines (Romania) − nestled in the renowned Dealu Mare region of Romania, resides near Urlati, surrounded by picturesque vineyards. Since 2009, the vineyard underwent replanting with grapes spaced 2.2m apart, allowing meticulous care. The brand aims to convey wine’s harmony naturally, using organic methods and employing intricate techniques to enhance flavors for exceptional results. These winemakers strive to combine wine with music – and harmony sounds in every sample, you will see for yourself!

WTA Ceremony Walk Around Tasting:

• VIRTUOZ FETEASCA REGALA – DRY 2021
• VIRTUOZ FETEASCA NEAGRA – OFF DRY 2021
• GRAMOFON WINE SAUVIGNON BLANC – DRY 2020
• GRAMOFON WINE CUVEE – MERLOT/FETEASCA NEAGRA/CABERNET SAUVIGNON – DRY 2022

Shumi Winery (Georgia) – one of the best producers of Georgian wines. Set in the magnificent Alazan Valley, the location is nothing short of the eighth wonder of the world — come and see for yourself! Shumi products are famous for their quality, they have earned more than 600 highest awards at prestigious international competitions, including prizes and medals that no other company in the history of Georgia has ever received.  Shumi was recognized as the BEST PRODUCER OF GEORGIA at one of the most prestigious competitions in the world – MUNDUS VINI Grand International Award!

WTA Ceremony Walk Around Tasting:

• Kakhuri Mtsvane Shumi
• Khikhvi Iberiuli
• Mukuzani Shumi
• Saperavi Iberiuli
• Zigu – (a legendary drink that combines the flavours of grape juice, wine, chacha and wine brandy, and the aroma is enriched with the scents of highland herbs)

Tenuta Manoylo (Italy) – a new star in Marche’s crown. Literally the “Discovery of the year” for us was the Italian Tenuta Manoylo, which has just taken its first steps on the world stage. And here is a resounding victory – the two highest awards: Grand Gold – 2021 Marche IGT Sangiovese; Silver – 2021 Falerio DOC Pecorino. Moreover, Tenuta Manyolo was granted by Mundus Vini the Best of Show Marche for its excellent wine 2021 Marche IGT Sangiovese. Tenuta Manoylo’s wines were created to showcase the products of a terroir that, since the times of Picenum and Ancient Rome, has been devoted to the production of fine wines and oils, famous throughout the Mediterranean and Europe. Today, by combining innovative technologies with ancient winemaking traditions, Tenuta Manoylo’s wines offer those who savour them the unique taste of these places suspended in time.

WTA Ceremony Walk Around Tasting:

• Passo del Borgo Marche IGT Passerina (from an ancient and traditional Marche grape variety).
• Falerio DOC Pecorino (autochthonous variety from the Marche region).
• Marche IGT Sangiovese

Shaloshvili Cellar (Georgia) – it is not just a winery, it is an oasis of relaxation in the hotel of the same name, located among emerald vineyards. Since 1998, Shaloshvili Cellar crafts elegant whites and complex reds, now integrating modern technology since their 2013 inception. With a passion for Georgian culture, they offer full tourist experiences at their onsite hotel. Producing 150,000 bottles yearly from 16 organic hectares.

WTA Ceremony Walk Around Tasting:

• Kisi Mtsvane White Dry 2021
• Rkatsiteli Oak Barrel Aged White Dry 2017
• Saperavi Oak Barrel Aged Red Dry 2018
• Saperavi QVEVRI 2020

We introduce the next participant, slightly, holding our breath – like school children talking about their guru))). After all, Le Grand Noir (France) comes from ancient Southern French landscapes with a huge diversity of soils, altitudes and microclimates and was created on the initiative of WTA judge Robert Joseph. With a focus on quality and innovation, Le Grand Noir produces a diverse range of wines, including reds, whites, and rosés, each reflecting the unique terroir of the region. Established in the early 21st century, the winery has quickly gained recognition for its dedication to producing wines of outstanding character and complexity.

WTA Ceremony Walk Around Tasting:

• Le Grand Noir Chardonnay
• Le Grand Noir GSM Red Blend

This also presents a unique opportunity for curious wine enthusiasts to discover a new creation by Robert Joseph. K’AVSHIRI (Georgia) – traces back to 1988 when wine critic Robert Joseph explored Georgia’s rich culture and wines. In 2018, he partnered with Vladimer Kublashvili of Winery Khareba, envisioning unique blends using indigenous grapes and qvevri fermentation. After years of experimentation, they crafted distinctive wines, including the White 2022 and a limited Red Assemblage, released in Spring 2024.

WTA Ceremony Walk Around Tasting:

• K’AVSHIRI White 2022
• K’AVSHIRI Assemblage Red

The next wine we present, Cloudy Bay, is our pride. We introduce it with due reverence, all the way from its distant origins – New Zealand. The winery was founded in 1985 by David Hohnen and Kevin Judd. Their first Sauvignon Blanc received international recognition and put New Zealand wine on the map. Cloudy Bay joined Veuve Clicquot in 1990 and in 2003 became part of the LVMH family. Today, this outstanding winery is not only an exceptional location for wine tourism, but under the leadership of the famous top manager Yang Shen, it produces wines that are deservedly included in the top league of fan wine.

And the collective participant of the WTA Ceremony Walk Around Tasting is Wine of Moldova, which, with the support of the United States Agency for International Development, presents the best wines of the country at our celebration!

 

Cheers! Welcome to the Ceremony!

Traditionally, the awarding ceremony of the winners of the WTA is accompanied by a round tasting of the wines of our nominees. And at the same time it becomes a round-the-world journey through wine routes. And this year the THIRD Edition of WTA Ceremony at the London Wine Fair 2024 promises an exciting lineup of […]

As of May 1st, the main voting phase for the Wine Travel Award 2023–2024 has come to a close.

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We are excited to unveil the Award winners and offer our heartfelt congratulations to everyone involved! Moving forward, our journey continues with the WTA Ceremony in London. It will summarize the results of the 2023–2024 campaign, where the winners of both the public vote and the professional jury will be determined.

SAVE THE DATE!

• May 21, 10:30 am — 12:30 pm
• Gallery Suit, London Wine Fair

We invite you to the ceremony! Use this form to get your badge to the London Wine Fair.

Take the opportunity to acquaint yourself with the nominees, chosen by Wine Travel Awards professional jury:

Ambassador

Persons representing wines, regions, enogastronomic routes, brands; associations, consortia, national wine bureaus, tourist offices, and tour operators.

Creative Strategy

Award winner: The Imeretian Wine Association 

Judge: Felicity Carter

The Imeretian Wine Association, formed in 2022, swiftly showcased Imereti’s wines globally in its first year. With around 70 member wineries, it actively promoted the region through international events. A wine laboratory project, meeting global standards, is underway in Baghdati. Led by enthusiasts like Keti Jurkhadze, the association aims to elevate Imereti’s wines to global recognition.

Ambassador of the Year

Award winner: Sonal Holland 

Judge: Nina Basset

Sonal Holland, India’s only Master of Wine, is a pioneering figure in the country’s wine industry. She founded Vine2Wine, a leading wine retail chain, and the SoHo Wine Club, offering bespoke experiences. As a certified wine educator, she established the Sonal Holland Wine Academy. Sonal is celebrated internationally as a broadcaster, writer, and judge in the beverage industry. Her influence extends globally, making her a sought-after consultant and brand ambassador.

Wine & Food Influencer

Journalists, professional media, bloggers, photographers and videographers.

Author of the Year

Award winner: Angelo Peretti 

Judge: Robert Joseph

Angelo Peretti, a prominent Italian journalist and wine writer based in Veneto, is hailed as the wine ambassador of the region. He is the editor of InternetGourmet.it and has authored several books on Italian wines, including Spiritual exercises for wine drinkers, which explores the philosophical aspects of wine consumption. Peretti’s book has received acclaim, winning prestigious literary prizes and praise from notable publications like La Repubblica. Through his work, Peretti aims to elevate wine drinking to a meditative art, intertwining oenological expertise with literature, art, and philosophy.

Expert Opinion

Award winner: Marinela Ardelean 

Judge: Dr. Ricardo Nunez

Marinela Ardelean, with an executive MBA and PhD in Marketing, is revolutionizing Romanian wines. Inspired by Italian culture, she penned an acclaimed book pairing Romanian wines with Italian cuisine. Her global influence has earned her prestigious titles and leadership roles in wine education. Marinela’s integrity and creativity set new standards in a male-dominated industry, evident in her collaborations and achievements. She aims to elevate Romanian wines globally through initiatives like the RO-Wine festival and extensive research.

The Brightest Journey

Award winner: Daria Kholodilina

Judge: Per Karlsson

Daria Kholodilina, a wine tourism specialist in Georgia, promotes Georgian wines through blogging and online events. With a background in marketing and a passion for wine, she co-authored a guidebook to Georgia’s wine regions. Daria advocates for exploring lesser-known wine regions beyond Kakheti, highlighting their unique terroirs and varieties. She aims to make Georgian wine regions more accessible and appreciated globally.

Education in Enotourism

Wine museums, wine institutes, tasting rooms, including those located on the premises of the wineries, academies of enogastronomy, wine schools participating in tourist projects, organizers of tours to exhibitions, etc.

Cultural Mission

Award winner: World of Wine (WOW)

Judge: Yang Shen

WOW, situated on the south bank of River Douro, is a unique cultural district boasting six permanent museums and a range of dining options. Founded by Adrian Bridge, it offers fantastic views of Porto city’s skyline and waterfront, attracting a diverse audience. The Wine Experience Museum within WOW aims to demystify wine, offering an interactive journey from grape to bottle. Other museums, like the Pink Palace and Planet Cork, offer immersive experiences exploring various aspects of culture and history.

Unique Program

Award winner: Shumi Wine School

Judge: Nina Basset

SHUMI WINERY pioneered enotourism in Georgia, boasting a unique tourist complex and a comprehensive wine school. The winery’s facilities include an Ampelographic Collection for scientific research and a wine school offering free education programs. With a focus on both commercial activities and charity, SHUMI Wine School provides students with a thorough understanding of viticulture, winemaking, and wine tourism. Through collaborations with international experts and universities, SHUMI is actively contributing to the education and development of the wine industry in Georgia.

Wine Guide

Guides, guides-representatives of wine regions, tour operators, etc.

Top Guide

Award winner: Miguel Leal

Judge: Florence Cathiard

Miguel’s lifelong connection to the wine world began on his family’s vineyard in Portugal’s Vinho Verde region. In 2011, he founded ML Private Tours to share Portugal’s wine and gastronomy with visitors. Specializing in the north, Miguel offers premium tours to various wine regions in Portugal and Spain, showcasing the country’s rich heritage and diverse range of wines. Portugal’s ancient winemaking traditions and unique grape varieties make it a top destination for wine enthusiasts worldwide.

Travel Operator of the Year

Award winner: Wine Paths

Judge: Florence Cathiard

Wine Paths offers luxury wine and spirits travel experiences across 15 countries, featuring top estates, accommodations, and dining options. Founded by CEO Stephane Tillement, backed by a wealth of experience in the luxury travel industry, Wine Paths provides bespoke, customizable programs through local travel experts. With exclusive partnerships, unique access to private properties, and recognition from top travel publications, Wine Paths is a leader in high-end wine tourism globally.

Enogastronomic Events

Festivals, wine days and local products days, exhibitions, promotion programs.

Magnet of the Region

Award winner: The National Wine Day of Moldova

Judge: Javier de las Muelas

The National Wine Day of Moldova is a celebration showcasing the country’s wine culture and heritage, held annually during the first weekend of October. Visitors can enjoy tastings, master classes, and expert meetings, learning about wine assessment, history, and production. The event features hundreds of wines from over 60 producers, along with traditional crafts, music performances, and culinary delights, offering a rich cultural experience for wine enthusiasts and travelers alike. Additionally, attendees can explore wine destinations through guided tours, discovering Moldova’s diverse wine regions and oenological adventures.

Event of the Year

Award winner: Yerevan Gastronomic Days

Judge: Prof. Dr. Prof. h.c. Gergely Szolnoki

EventToura has elevated Armenia’s wine tourism with initiatives like Yerevan Gastronomic Days, aiming to boost the country’s global position in enogastronomy. Led by founders Nune Manukyan and Mary Badalyan, the agency has positioned Armenia as a top tourist destination through event tourism, attracting international attention. The Yerevan Gastronomic Days now include masterclasses, discussions on food pairing and sustainability, and participation from global wine and culinary experts, enriching the cultural experience and promoting wine tourism in Armenia.

The Visiting Card of the Country

Destinations, wineries, national brands, establishments with a wine program: hotels, local food restaurants, bars, museums of wines and specialties, tasting rooms.

Region of the year

Award winner: Austria

Judge: Tim Hanni MW

Austria’s vibrant wine scene, spanning over 46,515 hectares, reflects its rich 2,000-year-old tradition. With medieval villages and baroque monasteries, Austria offers a unique tourism experience year-round. From spring cellar visits to summer bike tours and autumnal thermal spring visits, each season brings its delights. Vienna, with over 700 hectares of vineyards, stands as a unique wine-growing capital, boasting charming Heurigen wine taverns. Throughout the year, Austria welcomes visitors to explore its fascinating world of wines, blending tradition with modern practices.

© Austrian Wine / WSNA

Art & History Object

Award winner: Château Angelus

Judge: Stéphane Badet

Château Angelus, managed by the de Boüard de Laforest family, epitomizes Bordeaux’s excellence, focusing on its unique terroir and Cabernet Franc varietal. The estate’s history dates back to its classification as a Premiers Grand Cru Classe A in 1954. Symbolized by its bell, Angelus reflects centuries of tradition, with Stéphanie de Boüard-Rivoal leading its exclusivity into the future. Committed to ecological sustainability, the estate received HVE certification and unveiled Carillon d’Angelus, a state-of-the-art winery adhering to strict environmental standards.

Progressive Approach

Award winner: Tenuta Manoylo

Judge: Tim Hanni MW

Tenuta Manoylo, nestled in the Marche region’s picturesque landscape, embraces a slower, more meaningful approach to winemaking. Celebrating the land’s unique attributes, including clay from local vulcanelli, the estate produces wines that reflect the region’s ancient winemaking traditions. With a focus on sustainability and innovation, Tenuta Manoylo offers timeless wines that capture the essence of the region’s terroir.

Brand – the Visiting Card of the Country

Award winner: Cloudy Bay 

Judge: Ester Garcia Adrados

Cloudy Bay is dedicated to quality winemaking, with a focus on protecting their home, as evidenced by their involvement in Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand. Founded in 1985, the winery has gained international recognition for its Sauvignon Blanc and now produces a range of wines including Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Visitors are welcomed to Marlborough and Central Otago to experience Cloudy Bay’s vineyards and enjoy tastings amidst stunning landscapes.

Must Visit

Award winner: SHUMI Winery 

Judge: Ester Garcia Adrados

Georgia, known as the cradle of viticulture and winemaking, boasts an 8,000-year-old tradition that includes the oldest cultivated vine pips and Qvevri winemaking methods. SHUMI Winery, located in the heart of Georgian winemaking in Tsinandali, has a 25-year history of reviving these ancient traditions, backed by its vast collection of over 2,000 grape varieties. Beyond winemaking, SHUMI offers a unique tourist complex with a wine museum, Georgian ethnographic pavilion, and diverse gastronomic experiences, making it a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.

Also, the jury decided to get two special awards this year:

The Judge’s Choice Award was received by:

Deschidem Vinul Românesc

• Nomination: Ambassador
• Category: Creative Strategy
• Judge: Felicity Carter

Deschidem Vinul Românesc promotes Romanian wines globally, aiding local wineries in gaining retail access. With over 240 wines from 70 wineries, it expands annually, showcasing exclusive varieties at Carrefour. The program’s tastings, including events in Times Square and Milan Wine Week, elevate Romanian wines on the international stage.

Vitaliy Kovach Sommelier School

• Nomination: Education in Enotourism
• Category: Unique Program
• Judge: Nina Basset

The Vitaliy Kovach Sommelier School is an innovative online educational project aiming to provide stress relief and promote wine appreciation. Founded by Vitaliy Kovach, a renowned wine expert, the school offers training worldwide and boasts graduates working in various prestigious positions across the globe. It provides an opportunity for enthusiasts to delve into the world of wine, understand its nuances, and embrace the culture of winemaking and consumption.

Kabistoni Wine School

• Nomination: Education in Enotourism
• Category: Unique Program
• Judge: Nina Basset

Keti Jurkhadze’s journey from wine enthusiast to scholar and founder of the Kabistoni Wine School reflects her passion for Georgian wine culture and her dedication to its promotion. With extensive experience as a wine judge, professor, and director, she has played a significant role in elevating the profile of Georgian wines internationally. Through her innovative educational initiatives, including the Kabistoni Wine School, she has empowered wine lovers and entrepreneurs to deepen their knowledge and appreciation of viticulture and winemaking.

The Wine School. World of Wine (WOW)

• Nomination: Education in Enotourism
• Category: Unique Program
• Judge: Nina Basset

WOW’s Wine School offers a unique educational experience, combining wine studies with travel to Portugal, one of the world’s most beautiful wine regions. Led by Adrian Bridge, the school aims to demystify wine for enthusiasts, connoisseurs, and professionals alike, offering a wide range of courses and certifications tailored to different levels of expertise. Located within the expansive cultural and tourist hub of WOW, the school is part of a larger initiative to celebrate Portugal’s culture, history, and main industries, including wine.

Britt Karlsson & Per Karlsson

• Nomination: Wine & Food Influencer
• Category: Author of the Year
• Judge: Robert Joseph

The Wine for the Future by Britt Karlsson and Per Karlsson addresses the pressing issues of sustainability, organic farming, and climate change in the wine industry. Their comprehensive book, originally published in Swedish, explores the challenges faced by wine producers in adopting environmentally friendly practices and adapting to climate change. Through insightful discussions on topics such as sustainable viticulture, organic farming, and the impact of climate change on wine production, the authors provide valuable insights for both industry professionals and wine enthusiasts.

The Cité des Climats et Vins de Bourgogne

• Nomination: Education in Enotourism
• Category: Cultural Mission
• Judge: Yang Shen

The Cité des Climats et Vins de Bourgogne, conceived by the Bourgogne Wine Board (BIVB) in 2010, aims to promote the rich history and wine culture of Bourgogne through innovative museography and tasting workshops. Divided into three sites in Chablis, Beaune, and Mâcon, the Cité serves as a network representing Bourgogne’s wine-growing regions. It offers visitors a sensory experience, including a visit to the Cave aux Arômes to refine their sense of smell, making it a unique destination for wine enthusiasts.

Winery Khareba 

• Nomination: The Visiting Card of the Country
• Category: Must Visit
• Judge: Ester Garcia Adrados

Winery Khareba focuses on preserving unique wine varieties through traditional winemaking methods, owning over 1500 hectares of vineyards across Georgia. With a diverse range of premium wines, including Qvevri wines and sparkling wine, Khareba Winery has won numerous awards at international competitions. The iconic Kvareli Wine Cave offers a unique experience, with its extensive tunnels providing an ideal environment for wine storage and aging, attracting visitors from around the world.

Anna Alekseyeva

• Nomination: Wine Guide
• Category: Top Guide
• Judge: Florence Cathiard

Anna Alekseyeva’s journey from Kyiv to Verona led to the founding of Vivavino Wine Shop, a family-run enoteca known for its paper-made design and selection of wines from local vineyards. With a background in international wine expertise and dining etiquette, Anna is a certified sommelier and founder of Italy’s first Academy of Wine Etiquette. She shares her passion through consultancy services, training programs, and enogastronomic tours, promoting Italian culture and cuisine in Verona and beyond.

Ijevan Wine-Brandy Factory

• Nomination: The Visiting Card of the Country
• Category: Progressive Approach
• Judge: Tim Hanni MW

Ijevan Wine-Brandy Factory, established in 1951, represents Tavush and Armenia with its unique brandies, wines, and canned products, embracing new equipment and technologies while preserving the timeless tradition of grape and wine making. Under new ownership since 2005, the factory has expanded its product range, renovated its facilities, and invested in vineyards and expertise, offering tours of its vineyards and cellar for visitors to experience Armenian wines firsthand.

Piemont and Consorzio Asti DOCG

• Nomination: The Visiting Card of the Country
• Category: Region of the year
• Judge: Tim Hanni MW

The land of Asti DOCG, with its noble hills and lush vineyards, is celebrated for its unique terroir, representing a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the vineyard landscapes of Langhe, Roero, and Monferrato are a testament to the enduring relationship between nature and human craftsmanship. Asti Spumante and Moscato d’Asti, two iconic wines originating from Moscato Bianco grapes, epitomize the region’s winemaking excellence, offering delightful aromas and flavors that capture the essence of Piedmont.

Charitable Gastro Dinners

• Nomination: Enogastronomic Events
• Category: Event of the Year
• Judge: Prof. Dr. Prof. h.c. Gergely Szolnoki

The Association of Culinary Chefs of Ukraine, along with chefs from several European countries, organizes charity gastro dinners to support Ukraine, raising over $434,198 and essential supplies. These events feature national cuisine dishes with an author’s interpretation, accompanied by auctions offering unique items, like boxing gloves signed by Vitaliy Klitschko and memorabilia from prominent figures. The organizers invite partners to join this noble mission, emphasizing the importance of supporting Ukraine and democracy worldwide.

Dry Martini by Javier de las Muelas. The bar. Madrid

• Nomination: The Visiting Card of the Country
• Category: Art & History Object
• Judge: Stéphane Badet

Renowned bartender Javier de las Muelas recreated Dry Martini in Madrid, maintaining its classic martini bar ambiance with brass, crystal, velvet, and leather décor, adorned with artworks from his personal collection. The bar offers a wide selection of cocktails, including classics like Dry Martini alongside innovative creations such as the Wasabi Mule and exotic options like the Mezcaltini and Bamboo. Guests can also indulge in a unique experience with cocktails like La pipa and The Fugu, served in an exotic carnivorous plant, paired with a selection of five types of caviar and specially crafted cocktails.

Finally, two nominees — SHUMI Winery and Marinela Ardelean — were awarded by Grand Prix of Wine Travel Awards: for exceptional achievement and dedication in advancing the art of viniculture and crafting unforgettable wine tourism experiences.

However, it is worth remembering that the emphasis is not solely on prizes and accolades. What holds true value is the act of participating and fostering meaningful connections.

Congratulations from the WTA team!

As of May 1st, the main voting phase for the Wine Travel Award 2023–2024 has come to a close. We are excited to unveil the Award winners and offer our heartfelt congratulations to everyone involved! Moving forward, our journey continues with the WTA Ceremony in London. It will summarize the results of the 2023–2024 campaign, where […]

Prepare for an exceptional event at the forthcoming Wine Travel Awards Ceremony! Scheduled for May 21st at Olympia, London, immediately following the London Open announcement, the ceremony will commence promptly at 10:30 and conclude at 12:30.  In 2024, the fruitful collaboration between Wine Travel Awards & Drinks+ with the London Wine Fair successfully continues. And […]

This weekend, the highly anticipated Transylvanian edition of RO-Wine will be held at Chios Lounge, nestled in the Simion Barnutiu Park in Cluj-Napoca, Romania.

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Marinela Ardelean – WTA Public Voting Winner 2023-2024 in Ambassador of the Year, Expert Opinion, The Brightest Journey categories and the organizer of RO-Wine Festival comments:

«Excited to announce the Cluj edition of RO Wine-International Wine Festival of Romania happening this weekend, Saturday and Sunday! With over 50 wineries from 10 different countries, we’re bringing you a top selection and remarkable diversity. Whether you’re a fan of exceptional reds, whites, or rosés, join me on April 20th and 21st at CHIOS Social Lounge in Cluj for the first edition of this year’s festival. Promoting Romanian wine means promoting Romania itself, and these two brands should support each other. Let’s showcase our indigenous grape varieties and share the rich cultural heritage of our country through wine. See you there!»

RO-Wine | The International Wine Festival of Romania – it is the nominee of 2023-2024 WTA editions at Enogastronomic Events/Event of the Year. This is the only festival dedicated to premium and super premium wines. Every year the festival acquaints its visitors with wineries of Romania, Europe and other wine-growing regions of the world. Local and international restaurant owners and chefs, restaurant and bar managers, importers, retailers and distribution companies bring their iconic gourmet products to give the diners the opportunity to create unique wine pairings. A special area hosts cooking classes and other special events.

And we remind you about an exceptional event at the forthcoming Wine Travel Awards Ceremony! Scheduled for May 21st at Olympia, London, immediately following the London Open announcement, the ceremony will commence promptly at 10:30 and conclude at 12:30. 

Save the Date!

May 21, 10:30 am — 12:30 pm

Olympia, London (Hammersmith Rd, London W14 8UX)

Cheers!

This weekend, the highly anticipated Transylvanian edition of RO-Wine will be held at Chios Lounge, nestled in the Simion Barnutiu Park in Cluj-Napoca, Romania. Marinela Ardelean – WTA Public Voting Winner 2023-2024 in Ambassador of the Year, Expert Opinion, The Brightest Journey categories and the organizer of RO-Wine Festival comments: «Excited to announce the Cluj […]

The event of the Wine Travel Awards Team as a part of ProWein 2024 in Düsseldorf “Tasting Around the Sustainable World” garnered a significant audience due to its intriguing theme of exploring.

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The event was graced by the presence of an esteemed speaker, Prof. Dr. Prof. h.c. Gergely Szolnoki from Geisenheim University, who also happens to be a member of the WTA jury. Mr Szolnoki shared his invaluable insights and practical recommendations based on a comprehensive study of over 1,500 wineries across 42 countries, making the event a truly exclusive experience.

The event was a resounding success and sold-out. The anticipation was not only due to the informative presentation but also the wine tasting session that followed. The WTA award team had curated an impressive line-up of participants, each representing some of the finest gems from the world of wine.

But now, let’s delve into the theoretical aperitif that was served at the event and to all of these unique data which the professor provided us as a part of its huge research for the publication.

So according to Prof. Dr. Prof. h.c. Gergely Szolnoki Wine tourism is a significant contributor to the global economy, generating an annual revenue of €5 billion and providing employment for approximately 71,000 people.

The first and main part is Adaptation strategies & initiatives after the Covid, so the part of the survey was conducted to gain a deeper understanding of the industry. The survey consisted of in-depth interviews with 70 wineries from around the world, including both well-established and emerging wine regions. The wineries were selected from the United States and Australia, representing the New World, and from Germany, Hungary, and Romania, representing the Old World.

The survey aimed to gather insights into the current trends, challenges, and opportunities in the wine tourism industry, as well as to identify best practices and areas for improvement. By analyzing the data collected from the interviews, valuable conclusions were drawn, which can help shape the future of wine tourism and support its sustainable growth.

Emerging wine tourism trends shaping its future.

And the wine tourism industry is evolving, with several emerging trends shaping its future: Firstly, there is a growing trend towards individualized experiences, moving away from mass tourism. Travelers are seeking unique and personalized experiences that cater to their specific interests and preferences. Secondly, there is an increasing focus on exploring the local region and its culture. Wine tourism is no longer just about tasting wine but also about discovering the local cuisine, history, and traditions. Thirdly, digitalization is playing an increasingly important role in wine tourism. Travelers are using technology to plan their trips, connect with wineries, and share their experiences on social media.

Finally, sustainability is becoming a key consideration in wine tourism. Travelers are looking for environmentally friendly and socially responsible experiences that support the local economy and community. Wineries are also adopting sustainable practices in response to growing consumer demand and to ensure the long-term viability of their businesses.

The key findings regarding the role of sustainability in wine tourism.

The survey revealed several key findings regarding the role of sustainability in wine tourism.

• Sustainability is of critical importance to wineries, with many incorporating sustainable practices into their operations.
• Wineries have varying perspectives on the overlap between sustainable wine production and sustainable wine tourism. However, the overall overlap appears to be relatively small.
• The survey found that wineries place slightly more importance on the environmental dimension of sustainability compared to the economic and social aspects.
• The most important measures that wineries plan to implement include careful energy use, developing a long-term company strategy, and collaborating with regional companies and actors.

The survey revealed that 62% of wineries believe that sustainable practices in wine tourism are currently essential for visitors. However, this number is expected to rise significantly in the next five years, with 87% of wineries predicting that sustainable practices will become much more important to visitors.

93% of surveyed wineries emphasized the importance of sustainability in wine tourism, with Chile rating it the highest at 4.8 out of 5, surpassing Germany and Hungary by a significant margin.

Respondents highlighted the environment as the foremost pillar of sustainable wine tourism, with 40% of responses. The social and economic pillars were rated similarly, each receiving 29% and 31% of responses, respectively.

Drivers and barriers to sustainable wine tourism. As well as important pillars.

According to the survey, the primary drivers for sustainable wine tourism include building trust and reputation (57%), enhancing visitor satisfaction (55%), and contributing to a better world (55%).

Meanwhile, the main barriers to sustainable wine tourism are cited as a lack of financial resources (48%), insufficient human resources (35%), and inadequate infrastructure (35%).

In sustainable wine tourism, the three pillars hold varying degrees of importance: the environmental aspect ranks highest at 40%, followed by the economic pillar at 31%, and the social dimension at 29%.

Visitors & wine tourism.

Visitor perception of sustainable wine tourism practices is a crucial factor in the success of sustainable initiatives in the wine tourism industry. According the survey, visitors’ attitudes towards sustainable wine tourism have been shifting towards greater importance.

Currently, 62% of visitors perceive sustainable wine tourism practices as important, while 38% do not consider them important. However, looking ahead to the next five years, there is a significant increase in the perceived importance of sustainable wine tourism practices, with 82% of visitors considering them important and only 13% not considering them important.

This shift in perception reflects a growing awareness and understanding among visitors of the importance of sustainability in the wine tourism industry. Visitors are increasingly seeking sustainable experiences that align with their values and contribute to the preservation of the environment and local communities.

Wineries can capitalize on this trend by adopting sustainable practices and communicating them effectively to visitors. By doing so, wineries can not only meet visitors’ expectations but also enhance their reputation and competitiveness in the global market. However, it is essential to ensure that sustainability initiatives are genuine and meaningful, rather than simply a marketing tool, to avoid greenwashing and maintain visitors’ trust and loyalty.

The Conclusions.

In conclusion, sustainability and sustainable wine tourism are of paramount importance, although defining and implementing measures for sustainable wine tourism can be complex due to a lack of experience. To address this challenge, a supported measure catalogue with concrete ideas could facilitate easier adoption. Lack of information and guidelines emerges as one of the main barriers hindering progress in sustainable wine tourism, highlighting the need for accessible resources and clear guidance in this field.

We extend our gratitude to Prof. Dr. Prof. h.c. Gergely Szolnoki for his insightful speech and for generously sharing valuable information with us, which will undoubtedly contribute to the advancement of wine tourism in the future. For further details about the study, please refer to the link provided https://www.winetourism.com/sustainable-wine-tourism/

 

The event of the Wine Travel Awards Team as a part of ProWein 2024 in Düsseldorf “Tasting Around the Sustainable World” garnered a significant audience due to its intriguing theme of exploring. The event was graced by the presence of an esteemed speaker, Prof. Dr. Prof. h.c. Gergely Szolnoki from Geisenheim University, who also happens […]

Tasting Victory: The Life and Wines of the World’s Favorite Sommelier is an impressive story of Gerard Basset’s life and career. It is a reflection of the victory over the challenges that stand in the way of a person and clearly proves that everyone is able to reach the top in any, even the most difficult, circumstances. The main thing is desire and perseverance.

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This year, the winner of the Wine Travel Awards in the Ambassador of the Year category, who will be traditionally awarded the Gerard Basset Prize with the support of the Gérard Basset Foundation, will receive a book of memoirs by this incredible man. This copy will be signed by the wife of the famous sommelier — Mrs. Nina Basset, who is a member of the Wine Travel Awards jury, Vice President of the Academy of Sommeliers of Great Britain, ASI General Secretary and co-founder and chairman of the Gérard Basset Foundation. She commented on this joint decision with the award’s organizing committee: This is a great read that I hope will inspire others to believe that everyone can achieve anything they set their mind to. I am very impressed by the idea that the book Gerard finished in the last days of his life will be awarded to the Ambassador of the Year winner as a symbol of continuing his work. I am sure that Gerard’s memoirs will become a source of inspiration for a person who is in love with the world of wine and is ready to devote his life to this topic.

Nina Basset told the story of writing the book, in which Gerard Basset generously shares the wealth of his knowledge and talks about the extraordinary efforts he made to achieve his phenomenal success. This invaluable work of education and inspiration was written in the last months of the master’s life. And perhaps at the cost of his last days.

When Gerard was diagnosed with esophageal cancer, all his travels had to be canceled, and he tried to fill his time in other ways. I suggested that he write a book about his life because I thought it would help inspire others, says Nina Basset, Gerard left school as a child without a diploma, but through self-training, further education, mentoring, hard work, determination and passion for wine, he became one of the most famous sommeliers in the world. The book is his story of a life well-lived, describing his training methods, preparation for numerous exams, and ultimately the ASI World Champion Sommelier competition in 2010, where Gerard won the title of World Champion. This is not only a book about life in the wine and hospitality industry, it is an inspiring story about a man who never gave up his belief that you can achieve anything you want with hard work, dedication, and a little bit of luck. Gerard is a great storyteller, and many people tell me they read the book in one sitting because they found it hard to put it down. Gerard wrote the book chapter by chapter, on days when he was feeling more or less well during a terrible period of grueling surgeries and chemotherapy. He even left the hospital to be able to write the last chapter. Even though he knew that leaving the hospital would mean hastening the end… But he was desperate to be home to complete this final part. He died 10 days after leaving the hospital. But then he finished the last lines. And later I wrote the last words to the book, which was very difficult for me. But I had to do it for our dear Gerard.

David Williams, author of World Of Fine Wine, who personally knew Gerard Basset, wrote enthusiastically about Tasting Victory and the author of the book: Reading Tasting Victory was an extremely emotional experience. It is a memoir of the best professional of his generation in winemaking. Gerard was the first and only person to receive several of the highest qualifications at once — World Champion Sommelier, OBE, MW and MS. But it is his persistent pursuit of the highest degree of professionalism that is the essence of this book — for it was only on his seventh attempt that Gerard Basset, who was already 53 at the time, was finally recognized as the best sommelier in the world and the best sommelier of his generation.

Tasting Victory: The Life and Wines of the World’s Favorite Sommelier is a story that will impress anyone interested in wine, the restaurant industry, and success stories.

Gerard Basset tells about a difficult childhood and his first disappointing attempts to find his place in the world. But determination and hard work led him to success. He describes his unrivaled career, which includes founding innovative hotels, a successful wine business, and obtaining unique qualifications that have made him a legend in the world of wine.

Gérard Basset’s memoir is not only a story about one man’s journey to victory, but also an example and inspiration for everyone who dreams of reaching the top in their industry.

The Wine Travel Awards Ambassador of the Year prize, supported by the Gérard Basset Foundation, will be awarded at the Awards Ceremony to be held at the London Wine Fair on May 21, 2024 from 10.30 to 12.30.

Tasting Victory: The Life and Wines of the World’s Favorite Sommelier is an impressive story of Gerard Basset’s life and career. It is a reflection of the victory over the challenges that stand in the way of a person and clearly proves that everyone is able to reach the top in any, even the most difficult, […]

On April 1st, an essential phase of Wine Travel Award 2023–2024 – the public voting stage – concluded. We are thrilled to announce the winners and extend our congratulations to all participants! The next phase of our journey is the selection of the winners by our esteemed panel of judges, distinguished professionals in the wine and wine tourism industry. However, it is important to reiterate that in our community, prizes and diplomas are not the primary focus. What truly matters is participation and building connections.

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As you peruse our community gathered this year, you will notice several exciting developments. The geographic diversity has expanded, with nominees hailing from countries like Australia, New Zealand, China, and Taiwan, alongside a notable increase in participants from the USA. Additionally, we have successfully brought together some of the world’s most prominent wine museums. Notably, both small, independent wineries and renowned Grand Châteaux have expressed interest in our project, highlighting the inclusive and welcoming nature of our community, which shares a passion for exploring wine routes.

This is precisely the vision we had for the WTA community – a diverse assembly of individuals and brands capable of making a positive impact on the world. Take the opportunity to acquaint yourself with the nominees, chosen by their supporters:

Ambassador

Persons representing wines, regions, enogastronomic routes, brands; associations, consortia, national wine bureaus, tourist offices, and tour operators.

Creative Strategy

• #172 – 637 votes – The Imeretian Wine Association 
• #131 – 416 votes – Deschidem Vinul Romanesc
• #142 – 242 votes – Simone Roveda
• #179 – 217 votes – Országos Bortúra
• #85 – 203 votes – Visit Moldova

Ambassador of the Year

• #27 – 5095 votes – Vitaliy Kovach
• #29 – 4341 votes – Sonal Holland
• #183 – 2211 votes – Chien Hao Chen
• #120 – 1779 votes – Marinela Ardelean
• #162 – 659 votes – Cinzia Benzi

The nominees enlisted the big support of their friends, loyal audience and caught wine lovers’ eye, so that it yielded the results. Being charismatic and active on social media plays a crucial role in public voting. And we can see these features among our winners – famous chateaux, renowned experts and wine schools, attractive wine events and interesting wine authors and ambassadors.

The top five nominees from each category move on to the professional jury round. Their businesses will be reviewed by twelve industry-leading experts from the fields of winemaking, gastronomic tourism, marketing, and journalism. The selection takes place within a 10-point system according to the unified Wine Travel Awards protocols.

The WTA winners will be announced at the main WTA event – the WTA Ceremony scheduled to take place at the London Wine Fair on May 21 st , 2024 from 10.30–12.30.

The Wine Travel Awards Ceremony will highlight the results of the 2023—2024 campaign, where the winners of both public voting and professional jury selection will be appraised to that moment and new and prosperous names in the wine tourism business will be revealed.

The 2-hour program agenda includes:

• a speech “Wine Tourism: Benefits and Challenges” by Robert Joseph, the WTA jury member, a prominent author in the world of wine and wine tourism, pioneering wine expert, wine creator and industry innovator;
• a presentation of the WTA Sponsors and Partners;
• an announcement of the winners and WTA discoveries;
• a walk-around tasting of wines of the WTA community members.

On April 1st, an essential phase of Wine Travel Award 2023–2024 – the public voting stage – concluded. We are thrilled to announce the winners and extend our congratulations to all participants! The next phase of our journey is the selection of the winners by our esteemed panel of judges, distinguished professionals in the wine […]