As Wine Paris 2025 approaches, the global wine and spirits community is preparing for an event that transcends a typical exhibition, offering a comprehensive platform to address a myriad of challenges and opportunities within the industry.
Organized by Vinexposium, Wine Paris aims to solidify its reputation as a premier global showcase. The event is expected to attract over 4,600 exhibitors from 50 countries and approximately 50,000 trade visitors from 140 nations. Known for its commitment to innovation and collaboration, Wine Paris is tackling pressing issues such as climate change, evolving consumption trends, and the complexities of global trade, positioning itself as a pivotal force in fostering industry resilience and advancement.
Launch of “Voice of the Industry” Magazine
This year marks the debut of “Voice of the Industry,” a premier magazine crafted specifically for professionals in the wine and spirits sectors. This new publication seeks to become the quintessential reference for the community, delivering exclusive insights through in-depth interviews with industry leaders and comprehensive market analyses. Designed to engage and inform key decision-makers and influencers, “Voice of the Industry” will be available in both print and digital formats. The print edition will be strategically distributed at Wine Paris, ensuring it reaches VIPs and top-tier buyers, while the digital version is set to captivate over 150,000 subscribers of its newsletter.
For more details on how to engage with this dynamic event and to explore the rich content of ‘Voice of the Industry,’ we invite you to visit Wine Paris 2025. You can check the publication details here to secure your place in shaping the future of the global wine and spirits market.
Strategic Collaboration with Wine Travel Awards
In conjunction with the launch of its own media venture, Wine Paris continues its strategic partnership with the Wine Travel Awards (WTA), enhancing its impact across the global wine tourism landscape. The Wine Travel Awards Guide, released annually and distributed at the event, serves as an essential resource that showcases leading trends, key insights, and the notable achievements of its community members. Available not only at Wine Paris but also at other major global wine exhibitions like ProWein, Vinitaly, and the London Wine Fair, the guide significantly enhances the visibility and influence of its featured participants. This collaboration presents a unique business opportunity, enabling brands to amplify their market presence and refine their promotional strategies in front of an international audience, making it an indispensable investment for those aiming to make a significant impact at this pivotal industry event.
If you’re looking to elevate your brand and connect with key players in the wine and spirits industry, we’re here to help you get involved with the Wine Travel Awards Guide. For inquiries about special conditions, feel free to reach out to our media team at partnership@winetravelawards.com. This innovative publication reaches a global audience, providing a fantastic platform to boost your visibility and connect with decision-makers. You can check the terms here and explore the previous edition of the WTA Guide here.
Engage with Global Leaders at Wine Paris 2025 and Feature in the Wine Travel Awards Guide
Join us from February 10 to 12, 2025, in Paris, where Wine Paris 2025 not only showcases the latest market developments but also paves the way for future innovations in the wine and spirits industry. This premier event stands as a strategic platform catering to all facets of the national and international beverage alcohol and low-alcohol drinks industry. Beyond mere participation, seize this unique business opportunity to feature in the Wine Travel Awards Guide. This collaboration is more than an opportunity – it’s a strategic investment that enhances your visibility while optimizing your marketing spend. Engage meaningfully with industry leaders and secure your place in a publication recognized globally at major wine exhibitions. Don’t miss this chance to showcase your brand during this pivotal gathering.
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As Wine Paris 2025 approaches, the global wine and spirits community is preparing for an event that transcends a typical exhibition, offering a comprehensive platform to address a myriad of challenges and opportunities within the industry. Organized by Vinexposium, Wine Paris aims to solidify its reputation as a premier global showcase. The event is expected to attract […]
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The Wine Travel Awards (WTA) signature event, “Holistic Insights: Paradoxes in Ukraine’s Import & Export,” delivered more than a showcase of fine wines – it was an immersive exploration of winemaking mastery, where tradition met innovation and terroir intersected with cutting-edge technique. Featuring exceptional wines from the nominees of the Wine Travel Awards, the tasting celebrated the artistry and forward-thinking shaping the global wine market. While rooted in the day’s broader discussions on import and export dynamics, this session stood as a testament to terroir-driven excellence and bold winemaking philosophies, highlighting the evolving narratives of both Ukrainian and international producers.
The evening was highlighted by the exceptional K’avshiri wines from Georgia, the fruits of an ambitious collaboration between Robert Joseph and Volodymyr Kublashvili. Spanning nearly five years of innovative experimentation, these wines exemplify the successful fusion of ancient winemaking methods from the Kakheti and Imereti regions with modern viticultural practices. The K’avshiri White 2022, intricately blended from ten different grape varieties including eight native to Georgia, Muscat, and Burgundy’s Aligoté, offered a layered experience of complex flavors. The K’avshiri Red 2022 also impressed with its blend of nine varieties, featuring a unique co-fermentation of Georgian white grapes with the robust Saperavi, enriched by the inclusion of the specially dried Aladasturi grape.
Further enriching the tasting lineup were offerings from Tenuta Manoylo, a burgeoning winery from Italy’s Marche region, now gaining recognition in the Ukrainian market for its exceptional craftsmanship. Their wines, presented in Kyiv, demonstrated a remarkable ability to balance tradition with contemporary precision, offering a sensory journey through one of Italy’s most intriguing and underappreciated wine regions.
The 2021 Tenuta Manoylo Passo del Borgo, Marche IGT Passerina set the tone with its vibrant straw-yellow hue, enhanced by golden reflections. On the nose, it revealed a lively and elegant bouquet of lime, hawthorn, and pear, underpinned by a delicate mineral edge that reflected the region’s proximity to the sea. On the palate, it delivered a fresh and soft experience, with a harmonious interplay of citrus and aromatic herbs, finishing with a clean, satisfying brightness.
The 2021 Tenuta Manoylo Passo del Borgo, Marche DOC Falerio Pecorino followed, captivating with its golden tones and delicate greenish highlights. Its deep and structured aroma featured an interplay of white flowers and ripe fruits, complemented by subtle hints of vanilla and balsamic vinegar. The palate was equally striking, offering a spicy, herbal complexity balanced by vibrant acidity. Already a standout in competitions, the Pecorino 2022 Falerio DOC recently garnered a silver medal at the 27th Japan Wine Challenge 2024, underscoring the winery’s growing acclaim.
The final highlight was the 2022 Tenuta Manoylo Passo del Borgo, Rosso Piceno DOC, a ruby-red beauty with pale violet tones that evolved into garnet with age. Its aromatic profile showcased a persistent blend of red fruits, black cherry, and Morello cherry, accentuated by floral hints of rose and violet. On the palate, it delivered a perfectly balanced interplay of elegant tannins, fruity richness, and spicy, balsamic undertones, culminating in a layered and complex finish that lingered beautifully.
Tenuta Manoylo’s selections offered a vivid reflection of the Marche region’s character and potential, proving that this up-and-coming winery is a force to be reckoned with in the global wine scene. Each wine was a celebration of craftsmanship, terroir, and innovation, leaving a lasting impression on the palates of professionals and enthusiasts alike.
The tasting session concluded with a delightful exploration of Ukraine’s unique contribution to the world of beverages – Honey Badger’s artisanal infusions and liqueurs. Known for their vivid colors and bold, aromatic profiles, the Blackcurrant Nalyvka, Cherry Nalyvka, and Cornelian Cherry Nalyvka offered a sensory journey through traditional Ukrainian flavors, reimagined with modern craftsmanship.
As the evening closed, it became clear that the wines and liqueurs presented were more than beverages; they were reflections of cultural pride and the innovative spirit of their creators, offering a compelling invitation to both connoisseurs and newcomers to explore the boundless possibilities of the wine world.
To gain deeper insights into the wines presented at the tasting, we turned to two esteemed experts, Vitaliy Kovach and Nataliya Burlachenko, for their professional reviews and impressions.
“Particularly for me, the K’avshiri wines were an extraordinary discovery. It is evident that this project demonstrates a high level of approach to both the brand and the product. This wine reflects not just the concept of terroir, as most wines we associate with this component or, for example, a grape variety. K’avshiri has something that connects this project to the world of strong alcohol, particularly whiskey, where the producer goes further and wants to achieve more than just a high-quality product, to create something extraordinary. The technology used by the producer is extremely complex, reminiscent of whiskey production: aging in different barrels, at varying temperatures, several grape varieties aged differently – undergoing fermentation processes together or separately, and even using dried grapes. For me, this is a manifestation of the highest level of mastery, which has behind its scenes not only the concepts of terroir or grape variety but also technological innovation and perfection in the overall wine production process. I really liked the wine; it has an elegant European style, and if I were to taste it blind, I probably wouldn’t have identified it. Because the wine is extraordinarily complex both in aroma and flavor palette. Such a number of grape varieties conveys, in my opinion, the notion of the Rhone Valley, in this case, that’s the association that came to my mind. The project deserves professional attention. Certainly, the red wine needs more time to mature to express itself fully.
The white wine can be tasted now, providing enjoyment and allowing one to see Georgian Dano (a village located in the Akhmeta municipality in Kakheti, Georgia) through the prism of a British perspective and truly vast winemaking experience.
Regarding Tenuta Manoylo, when we talk about this winery and the Marche region, the first thing to note, in my opinion, is that it is the most underrated wine-producing region in Italy. For me, it’s a mystery, but, on the other hand, I understand that it’s a marketing issue and it’s underdeveloped. And here is a young, yet promising winery having to pave its way, competing with the renowned wines of Veneto or Tuscany. And this winery is doing it quite admirably! Varieties like Passerina, Pecorino, or the red Rosso Piceno are always exceptionally pure, effective, without any flaws, meaning these are high-quality wines, where whites should always be drunk as young as possible. Pecorino (as well as, by the way, Verdicchio), in my view, is one of the ‘fishiest’ grape varieties, meaning it’s ideal with various fish dishes. And no wonder, the sea is nearby. Overall, the wines are magnificent. The only thing is – they are not so easy to find on the international stage, and here, as I’ve already said, it’s a marketing shortfall. But the wines of the Marche region deserve huge attention overall, and Tenuta Manoylo in particular. I’m sure that in a couple of years – the world will start chasing after them.”
“First, I’d like to note the organization of the event, everything was at a superb level, and the speakers – Robert Joseph and Richard Bampfield – were stellar, because they are true stars!
Regarding the tasting, I was amazed by Mr. Robert’s Georgian wine – K’avshiri, an incredibly complex concept is embedded in the project’s philosophy. To encounter such a variety of blends from such diversity in wines, and at such a level of execution – I truly did not expect to try today in Kyiv. These wines are incredibly balanced. The red wine has a European style that is completely unlike Georgian wines, so I was astounded! I remember this wine, it resonated with me, one could talk about this wine for a long time. The white has a refined balanced taste, it is also an impressive wine.
Regarding Tenuta Manoylo, their white wines are very gentle, balanced, with good acidity, and actually, I would choose such wines for my own consumption or as a gift, although, as you understand, I have plenty to choose from (Laughing). I also want to mention the very stylish label of the brand, it’s artistic and memorable. I will separately mention the red wine Rosso Piceno DOC – it seems like the embodiment of Italian aristocracy, perfectly velvety, with a rich taste and complex aroma.”
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The Wine Travel Awards (WTA) signature event, “Holistic Insights: Paradoxes in Ukraine’s Import & Export,” delivered more than a showcase of fine wines – it was an immersive exploration of winemaking mastery, where tradition met innovation and terroir intersected with cutting-edge technique. Featuring exceptional wines from the nominees of the Wine Travel Awards, the tasting […]
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This autumn, the Wine & Spirits Ukraine exhibition hosted a remarkable gathering titled ” “Holistic Insights: Paradoxes in Ukraine’s Import & Export,” orchestrated by the Drinks+ & Wine Travel Awards team. The event starred Richard Bampfield MW and Robert Joseph, renowned British experts, who delved into the nuances of Ukrainian wine styles and discussed expansive opportunities for the nation’s wine export and tourism sectors. The session not only illuminated the complex landscape of Ukrainian viticulture but also included compelling presentations from seven of Ukraine’s top wine market operators. A tasteful finale featuring a diverse wine tasting shared with a globally connected audience highlighted the universal appeal and promising future of Ukrainian wines.
Segueing from this enlightening discourse, we delve into a series of case studies from the event, each presenting unique challenges and strategic insights from key players in the Ukrainian wine market. These case studies reveal not only the current state of the industry but also the dynamic approaches being adopted to navigate the global stage, address domestic challenges, and harness opportunities for growth and recognition.
The first of these, “Shabo – Navigating Global Markets Against the Odds,” introduces Valentina Parsayeva, who shares Shabo’s paradoxical journey in the export market. This is followed by explorations into the efforts of other leading Ukrainian winemakers and industry influencers, each facing their own set of challenges and opportunities. From enhancing export strategies to innovating within local markets, these stories collectively paint a portrait of a sector ripe with potential and poised for significant breakthroughs on the international wine scene.
Shabo – Navigating Global Markets Against the Odds
Valentina Parsayeva, who has been the export director at Shabo for over ten years, first noted the paradox that although the company has long and successfully operated in the international market, there will still be booth visitors at ProWein next year surprised that Ukraine produces wine. This underscores that Ukrainian winemakers should prepare for the long haul. It will be decades before the country truly, not just nominally or in reports, takes its rightful place on the world wine map. Naturally, this effort will require significant investments, including state support. Thus, even a generally successful Ukrainian brand faces paradoxes that demonstrate its challenges.
The next paradox Ms. Valentina mentioned is that “for the average consumer abroad, our export price is usually three to five times higher than the base price for Italian and Spanish wines.” Therefore, she believes that quality needs to match the price level. “That’s why, for the last 14 years, we have engaged the most progressive and effective production and viticulture consultants to meet international market demands.”
Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, Shabo has not ceased production and vineyard work, and the demonstrated paradox was that they never focused on identifying themselves as victims; instead, they moved forward more energetically. As a result, in May 2022, one of the company’s most successful steps occurred: their wines entered the Coop Danmark network (Editor’s Note: Coop Danmark operates as one of Denmark’s leading wine retailers, handling approximately 44% of all wine sold in the country’s grocery sector). “If in 2016 it took three years of annual tastings at ProWine and ten months to sign a contract with the largest Belgian network, in 2022 it only took three months with delivery. We met in May, and by August 24, Ukraine’s Independence Day, our wines were on the shelves in Denmark.”
Among the positive paradoxes of wartime, Ms. Parsayeva noted the preservation of active communications with partners, including their continued visits to the winery. Thus, despite the risks associated with shelling, almost immediately after the onset of Russia’s aggression in 2022, a Coop Wine Buyer representative unhesitatingly visited the Shabo production—participating in a tasting, viewing the production, and the Wine Culture Center (Editor Note: The Shabo Wine Culture Center, a unique tourist complex in Ukraine, integrates historical wine traditions with contemporary cultural experiences, featuring a modern winery, historic cellars, a museum, and art installations—all within an active winemaking enterprise.), and could personally relay to the management why they were exactly what he wanted in his network. Additionally, during this time, the winery was visited four times by American importers, Canadians, Belgians, etc. At the end of her presentation, Valentina Parsayeva emphasized that exporting is a lengthy and meticulous task, not only with importers but also directly with end consumers. After all, signing a contract with a one-time delivery is not an indicator of success. Shabo regularly conducts tastings to gauge feedback, including a recent one organized in Finland. “It is crucial to communicate with the end consumer, to understand the situation we are in, the consumer’s tastes, and what they expect.”
Vitis Group’s Strength and Unattainable Power
Sergiy Mazur, co-owner and director of Vitis Group, which is the oldest and most powerful importer and distributor in Ukraine, presented the second case. The director of Vitis Group thanked the organizers for this event and, in particular, for the meeting with Robert Joseph, whose books, as one of the most authoritative Ukrainian experts confessed, taught him everything he knows.
Mr. Serhiy discussed a new venture in his business—the production of his own local spirits. Sergiy Mazur’s company has been operating for 16 years, and five years ago, the idea arose to promote the export of Ukrainian wine; he consulted with experts in this field and learned about numerous contradictions in our legislation that hinder domestic export. Therefore, today, the local brands of Vitis Group, thanks to their experience, are successfully developing in the local market, awaiting radical changes in the legislation regarding export. Indeed, to break through on the export front requires a power unattainable for Ukrainian producers. “There are several schemes for interaction between producers and export markets,” explained Sergiy Mazur. “The simplest is when a producer, like Shabo, for example, can enter export markets on their own, participate in exhibitions, and establish direct connections. Another path is that of countries with large companies, like the Chileans with Concha y Toro and Errazuriz – they operate directly without needing state assistance. The third path should be taken by Ukraine.
We have a large number of small producers, and for countries like ours, the best approach is to have a country representative abroad or an agent located in Ukraine. And here our company, in cooperation with several other companies, aimed to create such an agency that would help conquer foreign markets. But it quickly turned out that we live in a feudal state… The legislation is written in such a way that it is impossible to do this a priori. Why? Because there are things like, for example, excise stamps, VAT, and so on, and so on… Currently, we have started producing our own products, launched a line of trade marks, and started cooperating with legal craft producers. But if we were planning to work with the Poles or Germans and, for example, export sparkling wine, which currently requires an excise stamp, we would have to buy, for example, wine from Shabo, according to Ukrainian legislation, they would have to affix a Ukrainian excise stamp, pay excise duty, customs duty, VAT, and give us the finished bottles. After that, we would have to perform some trick so that this stamp ‘evaporated’ and a German stamp appeared, we would have to affix it to this bottle, then customs clear it and send the wine. It may seem that this is not a very big problem. But if you, for example, are a wine producer somewhere in Transcarpathia, Odessa, or Mykolaiv region and want to enter, say, the Hungarian market and even you are lucky – your wines have attracted the interest of some distributor or large retail chain, and they say they want to try two wines from Transcarpathia, two from the Mykolaiv region, etc., they must conclude an agreement with each of these producers, then the producer must gather the entire quantity of ordered bottles, prepare customs documents for the export goods, and send the shipment. This is a problem.” Mr. Mazur also noted that attending international wine exhibitions by Ukrainian winemakers, where they currently have certain preferences thanks to the support of the global community, is not an accessible option for most due to financial insolvency. At the same time, according to Mr. Mazur, “the state today does not participate and is not interested in the export of domestic products. And we need to change that.”
Big Wines’ Bold Investments Amidst War
Nataliia Burlachenko, CEO of Big Wines and ambassador of Vinos de La Luz, shared her unique experience of investing in production in Ukraine, including in vineyards, during the war. Agreeably, this fact alone is significant support for Ukrainians and a demonstration of faith in our Victory. Naturally, such an investor must have nerves of steel. The Vinos de La Luz group, led by Dr. Ricardo Núñez, has proven to be just such an investor.
Vinos de La Luz, which owns wineries in Argentina, Spain, Italy, and the USA, began its Ukrainian project during the war in Ukraine, made possible by Dr. Núñez’s decisive leadership as the chief investor. It’s worth noting that Vinos de La Luz is a company skilled at taking calculated risks and making the right investments: Dr. Núñez was among the first sponsors to support the young international project Wine Travel Awards during its inaugural year. Incidentally, this happened during the first year of the war, and we take this opportunity to express our gratitude to our first sponsor.
Ms. Burlachenko explained that modern Ukraine is a country of contrasts and opportunities. Despite the war—or sometimes, harsh as it may sound, because of it—certain industries have begun to move forward and develop. “Businesses take risks, adapt, and succeed, whereas in stagnant economies, there is no talk of investment attractiveness,” she said.
Viticulture and winemaking in Ukraine hold enormous potential, but leveraging this potential requires substantial resources. “We are a large country, yet there are approximately 200 wineries in the entire country, and even fewer have licenses. For comparison, Spain’s Ribera del Duero region alone has 350 producers, with hundreds of regions across the country,” she explained. “Returning to Ukraine, we see that for both producers and investors, it is uncharted territory.”
Winemaking is undoubtedly an expensive industry worldwide, yet it carries weight and significance. Recognizing the importance of the country’s reputation, Ukraine, with the support of Vinos de La Luz, has returned to OIV representation. Ukraine is presented annually at various international events, and interest in both the country and its products—wines and spirits—is growing. “People want to know more about us,” she emphasized. “To meet this demand, we need to produce more, and there must be more of us (winemakers). Yes, we lack state support, but that does not mean we shouldn’t move forward.”
Ms. Burlachenko quoted Ricardo Núñez, who remarked that “Ukraine today is experiencing times similar to Argentina in the 1980s, when 80% of local wines were consumed domestically. The same is happening now in Ukraine. But in a couple of decades, there is a chance to reach an entirely new level.”
Speaking of paradoxes, Ms. Burlachenko humorously noted that her company is paradoxically competing with its own product range. “We are on both sides of the barricades and observe how everything unfolds from different perspectives,” she said.
In her view, it is crucial for Ukrainian winemakers to establish a complete production cycle to achieve success. Otherwise, assembling all the necessary components can be challenging. The Big Wines winery, currently under construction, will feature a full production cycle. Her recommendation: “Aim for comprehensive production.”
Bakota Bay’s Ascent in Ukrainian Winemaking
A logical follow-up to the advice from the owner of Big Wines was the story shared by Hanna Kovalevska, a well-known sommelier in Ukraine and co-founder of Bakota Bay Winery, a family-owned craft winery. To transition to a full production cycle and establish their own vineyard, the family took the risk of moving from the Kirovohrad region to the Khmelnytskyi region, near the picturesque Bakota Bay, right in the midst of the war.
At that time, winemaker Ruslan Kovalevskyi, already recognized with numerous awards from various competitions, had spent 12 years researching and studying. He realized that achieving his goal of producing wines of international quality required more than just skill; he needed to control the process from the very beginning, starting with the soil and vine development. This journey was not easy, but overcoming disappointments and challenges, the winemaker found his place in the sun.
Ms. Hanna shared with the audience: “Our winery has just one year of experience, and it was the most challenging year. Yet, we have already obtained a license and offer our customers truly high-quality wine. Additionally, I believe that Podillia is one of the most promising winemaking regions in Ukraine today. Although we have not officially declared ourselves as a microzone yet, we are working on this together with the local winemaking community.
This season, we produced 5,000 bottles of wine for 2023, and they were all sold locally. The positive aspect is that Bakota is a promising tourist destination with beautiful surroundings, and we are located directly on an already popular wine route. That is why we coordinated with a travel agency and host tourists, as is done in many countries worldwide. We showcase the stunning views of Bakota Bay and conduct tastings.
We do not work with distributors, only directly with consumers. And we take personal responsibility for the quality.”
Wines of Ukraine Shaping the Future
Svitlana Tsybak, head of Wines of Ukraine and the Ukrainian Winemakers Association, was the next speaker, providing event attendees with a significant volume of crucial information about the current state of the industry. Over the past three years, despite all the challenges of the war, the Wines of Ukraine team has not only maintained and developed winemaking in Ukraine but has also carried out dozens of large-scale initiatives aimed at promoting Ukrainian wines of a new wave—and of new quality—worldwide. The geographical reach of Wines of Ukraine’s activities, considering the ongoing war, appears almost fantastic.
The Association was established in 2021 with the aim of supporting small winemakers—providing technical and legal assistance as well as promotion and marketing. In 2022, Wines of Ukraine was founded based on the Association, and as Ms. Tsybak explained, “We realized that we needed to go beyond Ukraine.” Wines of Ukraine participated with its own stand at ProWein, followed by presentations in London and Vilnius. “Over time, our diplomacy evolved, and we began to receive invitations to hold presentations of Ukrainian wines in different countries. It was important to tell the world that Ukraine has wine, that Ukraine is historically a winemaking country capable of producing value-added products, not just raw materials. Previously, we had exports, but it was bulk wine. It was crucial for us to share what is happening in Ukraine’s wine industry and how, together with colleagues from other associations, we have been adjusting legislation to simplify processes for small winemakers, who are the ones building Ukraine’s image abroad.”
Regarding industry statistics, Ms. Tsybak noted that, unfortunately, the area of vineyards has decreased from 47,000 hectares to approximately 27,000 hectares during the war. However, between 2022 and 2024, exports grew by 29%. Ukrainian wines are now present in the markets of the USA, the UK, several European countries, the Nordics, and the Baltics. Overall, the geographical reach has expanded from 21 countries to 39. Ms. Tsybak also provided figures on the growth of domestic wine consumption: 3% for domestic wine and 29% for imports.
One problem, in Ms. Tsybak’s view, remains Ukraine’s non-competitive pricing. Ukraine cannot offer prices comparable to those of Italian, French, Spanish, or even American producers. “Of course, this is due to many factors, including problematic imports (cork, bottles), logistics issues, exchange rates, and more. These factors cannot be explained to the consumer. However, we will continue doing everything possible to promote Ukrainian wine and work on the development of the domestic industry.”
Honey Badger’s Path from Local Berries to Global Spirits
A perfect example of such development was presented at the event by Yuliya Kalenska and Artem Skubenko, founders of Honey Badger, a family-owned production of traditional Ukrainian infusions and liqueurs. These ambitious and skilled young entrepreneurs are convinced that traditional Ukrainian beverages should become as symbolic for Ukraine as Irish whiskey is for Ireland or Cuban rum for Cuba. Notably, Honey Badger was one of the first nominees for the Wine Travel Awards in the “Country’s Business Card” category.
Back in 2015, the family traveled across Ukraine in search of ancient authentic recipes and established a modern production facility. With the efforts of talented technologists, old recipes of traditional beverages were brought to life using advanced technologies. Today, Honey Badger is recognized as a trendsetter in the Ukrainian local beverages market. The company’s founder and technologist is Yuliya Kalenska, while Artem Skubenko is responsible for product development and promotion on both domestic and international markets.
Their production falls into the full-cycle category, as the producers take care of orchards—or even “terroirs”—where the berries used in their beverages are cultivated and carefully selected. Honey Badger’s liqueurs have an alcohol content of 17%, while their infusions are stronger at 38%. Artem explained that some marketers suggested naming their products bitters or liqueurs. However, the key to success lay not only in the exceptional quality of their products but also in their national identity. “We create infusions and liqueurs, and this is how it should remain for both locals and foreigners. This is a category of uniquely Ukrainian beverages: Nalyvkas!” Yuliya and Artem firmly declare.
Artem emphasized that if winemaking is a complex science, working with berries is akin to astronomy, with endless variations of flavors. The Honey Badger team planted their own orchards, delved into horticulture, and have already entered export markets. “We didn’t plan for this to happen so quickly, but the war made its adjustments. If in 2021 we were present in all Ukrainian airports, by 2022 we saw a 60% decline. However, in the summer of 2022, we resumed operations and decided to expand into exports and all Ukrainian retail chains.”
Currently, Honey Badger is present in many retail networks and HoReCa establishments. The company exports its products to Poland and Japan. Additionally, the entrepreneurs call their work a “flavor laboratory.” The company officially provides private bottling services for other craft producers, refines their recipes, and assists with marketing and scaling production to industrial levels. One successful example of this activity is the RUTA brand, a producer of herbal balms. Honey Badger also helps develop recipes and register the production of custom beverages for restaurant chains.
The founders of Honey Badger stress that the key to success lies in promoting the consumption of Ukrainian products: “We are in Ukraine, and there is a war now, so it is essential to support local producers.”
UKRSADVINPROM’s Blueprint for Industry Growth
At the conclusion of the event, Volodymyr Pechko, the head of the NGO “UKRSADVINPROM,” delivered a closing speech summarizing key trends, statistics from the past two years, and insights into the export trajectory of Ukrainian winemaking.
Mr. Volodymyr presented statistics from the past three years:
In 2021, Ukraine consumed approximately 10.331 million decaliters of still wine, of which 4.597 million decaliters were imported, and 5.734 million decaliters were produced domestically.
In 2022, consumption dropped to 6.790 million decaliters, with 3 million decaliters imported and 3.799 million decaliters produced domestically.
By 2023, consumption of domestic wine nearly equaled that of imported wine.
“While the market sees an influx of imports, it is often low-quality and inexpensive products that displace consumers from the domestic wine market. However, we are taking steps to address this. A laboratory for isotopic analysis has been established, which will test wine for authenticity, enabling experts and regulatory bodies to more effectively monitor market quality,” Volodymyr Pechko stated.
The head of “UKRSADVINPROM” emphasized the dynamic development of Ukraine’s winemaking sector, particularly in the area of craft winemaking. Over the past 4-5 years, changes in legislation have led to a 65% increase in the number of wineries, additional licenses being issued, new wineries being established, and new vineyards being planted across all regions of the country.
“Both large and so-called small Ukrainian winemakers deserve recognition and support from the state. They represent new jobs, new enterprises that will pay taxes, produce high-quality wine for the domestic market, and bring foreign currency to the country through exports,” Pechko noted.
During the event, Mr. Volodymyr presented diplomas to the winners of a tasting featuring wines from the flagship Odesa Black grape variety. The selected samples will represent Ukraine at the 100th-anniversary celebration of the OIV in France:
Winery Mon Crafto 2023 (Zhytomyr Region)
Wine House Gigineishvili, Gigi Wine 2022 (Vinnytsia Region, Kordelivka village)
This international initiative, organized by “UKRSADVINPROM” in Dijon, represents yet another step in Ukraine’s winemaking journey toward its own promising future.
As the day wrapped up, attendees were treated to a third segment of the event: a tasting of unique wines from both local and international producers, which further underscored the themes discussed throughout the day. For a more detailed exploration of this tasting and the exceptional wines featured, follow this link here. Additionally, if you missed the profound insights shared by international speakers Richard Bampfield MW and Robert Joseph on the future of Ukraine, catch up on all the details here.
This Wine Travel Awards signature event not only spotlighted the complexities and challenges faced by Ukrainian winemakers but also celebrated their resilience and innovation, promising an exciting future for Ukraine in the global wine arena. As we reflect on the vibrant discussions and the rich tapestry of stories shared, it’s clear that the spirit of Ukrainian winemaking is not just surviving; it’s thriving, pushing boundaries, and inviting the world to discover and embrace its unique wine narrative.
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This autumn, the Wine & Spirits Ukraine exhibition hosted a remarkable gathering titled ” “Holistic Insights: Paradoxes in Ukraine’s Import & Export,” orchestrated by the Drinks+ & Wine Travel Awards team. The event starred Richard Bampfield MW and Robert Joseph, renowned British experts, who delved into the nuances of Ukrainian wine styles and discussed expansive […]
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The Consorzio dell’Asti DOCG, a valued partner and proud member of the Wine Travel Awards community, has shared exciting updates and event highlights from the past months. This marks the third consecutive year of our fruitful collaboration, and we are delighted to continue showcasing their outstanding contributions to the world of wine and travel.
Ultra Trail of Moscato
A warm September sun accompanied the amateur running event that winds through the scenic paths, landmarks, and culinary highlights of the Langhe region, aiming to promote the territory through sport. Participants could choose between four routes of varying elevation and difficulty, all starting and ending in Santo Stefano Belbo. The Consortium, one of the event’s official sponsors, was also present with the ApeGlam, offering athletes a refreshing glass of Asti or Moscato d’Asti DOCG as a reward.
Bubbles & Bliss with Asti DOCG: An Autumnal Experience of Flavor and Creativity
The autumnal landscape of Hudson Valley in Upstate New York, combined with warm and cozy atmospheres, set the stage for a unique getaway organized for 10 lifestyles, food, and wine influencers. The late-October weekend featured wine tastings, mixology sessions, cooking classes, and an exquisite menu blending Italian and international cuisine, offering guests a deeper exploration of Asti Spumante and Moscato d’Asti.
The all-encompassing experience provided not only gastronomic pleasures but also moments of wellness, including Pilates lessons and a cooking masterclass to demonstrate how these wines can be incorporated into gourmet dishes.
Each influencer shared the most memorable highlights of the three-day Asti DOCG event with their followers, capturing the essence of this unforgettable experience. The weekend also included branded gifts for the participants, such as water bottles, mugs, hoodies, Pilates mats, pens, blankets, and more.
This exclusive event blended the enjoyment of fine wine, conviviality, creativity, and relaxation, leaving participants with lasting memories.
The occasion also featured a professional photoshoot, producing photo and video content that captured the most significant moments of the experience, including wine pairings with Asti DOCG bottles in various scenic and unique settings.
Milano Wine Week kicked off with Asti DOCG Toast
The Milano Wine Week kicked off with a toast featuring Asti DOCG, the renowned aromatic sparkling wine from Piedmont. On Saturday, October 5, at 6 PM, the traditional inaugural toast took place in Piazza Tre Torri within the City Life Shopping District, marking the beginning of the week-long wine celebration, which lasted until Sunday, October 13. The event, free and open to the public, featured the Asti DOCG Consortium as the Sparkling Wine Partner for the opening ceremony, alongside Carrefour Italia, the main sponsor of MWW2024. The seventh edition of Milano Wine Week offered nine days filled with tastings, masterclasses, immersive experiences, and insightful sessions, catering to both wine professionals and enthusiasts, with a particular focus on engaging the new generation of consumers.
Asti DOCG Toasts at the Nitto ATP finals for the fourth consecutive year
From November 10 to 17, the Asti DOCG Consortium once again served as the Official Sparkling Wine and Silver Partner of the prestigious Nitto ATP Finals in Turin, Italy. Celebrating its fourth year of partnership, the event brought together the world’s top eight tennis players, including hometown favorite Jannik Sinner, at the Inalpi Arena.
A Strategic Collaboration with Tennis The partnership links the Asti DOCG brand to the world of tennis, expanding its appeal to new audiences. “This collaboration allows us to align the Asti brand with sports, particularly tennis, and reach a broader audience of enthusiasts and potential consumers,” noted Giacomo Pondini, Director of the Asti DOCG Consortium. The partnership will continue into 2025, with Asti DOCG present at key tournaments such as the Rome Masters 1000.
Event Highlights The Finals were accompanied by a variety of activities in Turin:
Opening Ceremony: Asti DOCG was served at a preview party at La Rinascente boutique.
Charity Brunch: Memorabilia from players like Lorenzo Sonego were auctioned, raising funds for medical research.
Fan Village Presence: Throughout the event, attendees enjoyed limited-edition branded Asti DOCG wines.
Celebrations and Entertainment Asti DOCG was also featured during the Grand Opening Show on November 8, where cocktails were crafted by brand ambassador Giorgio Facchinetti, and performances by artists like Marco Mengoni, Madame, and Blanco added to the festivities.
As the Finals approached, five players, including Sinner, Alcaraz, Zverev, Medvedev, and Fritz, had secured their spots, with the final qualifiers determined in the season’s closing tournaments.
Asti Spumante Celebrates with Sinner: Tennis, Wine and Sparkling from Asti DOCG
Asti Spumante and the Consorzio Asti DOCG celebrate Jannik Sinner’s victory at the Nitto ATP Finals, the premier indoor tennis tournament of the year. “The decision to align our region with the world of tennis is proving increasingly successful,” said Stefano Ricagno, President of Consorzio Asti DOCG. “Seeing the South Tyrolean champion celebrate on a global stage with Asti Spumante filled us with immense pride.”
This marks the fourth year since the Asti Consortium began investing in tennis, with visibility soaring to a remarkable 4.6 million Italian viewers. According to ATP, the 2023 economic impact on the region exceeded €300 million, with a global audience of 483 million across TV, web, and social media – a 150% increase from 2022. The latest edition capitalized on “Sinner-mania,” reaching new heights of popularity.
“Tennis and Asti DOCG,” added Consorzio Director Giacomo Pondini, “is a pairing we will continue to see next year, starting with the Rome Masters 1000 and culminating at the Finals, where we’ll once again serve as the Sparkling Partner. We aim to surpass the impressive media figures of past years, including over 400 million viewers and 90 hours of direct exposure.”
The Consorzio Asti DOCG spans 51 municipalities across the provinces of Alessandria, Asti, and Cuneo, covering about 10,000 hectares within the UNESCO World Heritage wine landscape. With an average annual production of nearly 100 million bottles, it remains a cornerstone of Italian winemaking excellence.
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The Consorzio dell’Asti DOCG, a valued partner and proud member of the Wine Travel Awards community, has shared exciting updates and event highlights from the past months. This marks the third consecutive year of our fruitful collaboration, and we are delighted to continue showcasing their outstanding contributions to the world of wine and travel. Ultra […]
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|Коментарі Вимкнено до Asti DOCG: Highlighting the Season’s Stunning Events and a Progressive Autumn
Last week, the General Assembly of the International Organization of Vine and Wine (OIV) formally adopted OIV-VITI Resolution 703-2024 “OIV Definitions and Recommendations on Old Vines and Old Vineyards in the Viticulture Sector”. Among the main initiatives are named: “Conference on old vines”, “Project on old vines”, “Register of old vines” and the Italian “Censimento Vecchie Vigne”. Details about the resolution and one of its initiatives – the “Register of old vines” were written on the website of Alder Yarrow, Wine Travel Awards nominee in Wine & Food Influencer/Expert Opinion and Author of the Year.
“As the person behind the current incarnation of The Old Vine Registry, I am extremely proud that this project will help raise awareness of old vines and their value in the wine industry,” says Alder Yarrow, american wine and restaurant blogger, the publisher of Vinography, one of the most highly rated wine blogs.
The adopted resolution was the result of a long discussion among OIV experts in the Viticulture Commission and was based on specific official consultations among OIV member states. We will remind that on November 4, 2022, at the OIV General Assembly in Mexico, the restoration of Ukraine’s membership in this authoritative international organization was officially announced.
Therefore, the OIV delegation agreed and adopted:
An old grapevine is a single plant officially documented to be 35 years or older regardless of any other factors. In the case of grafted plants, the graft connection between rootstock and scion should have been undisturbed for at least 35 years;
An old vineyard is a block of vineyard terrain, continuous and legally delimited, where at least 85% of the grapevines correspond to the previous definition.
The OIV has given a number of reasons why such a definition makes sense for the industry as a whole. These include:
The environmental, social, and economic benefits of old grapevines and vineyards – especially concerning heritage, cultural, image and oenotourism aspects in meeting the sustainability objectives of the vitivinicultural sector;
The heritage value of old grapevines and vineyards is important for the vitivinicultural sector, and they deserve recognition and protection for their study in terms of their genetic diversity, agronomic capacities, quality, sustainability, and traceability objectives;
That a definition of old grapevines and old vineyards may be useful for the vitivinicultural sector in recognizing the value of products they deliver and enhancing communication about vineyards’ longevity;
The relationship between old grapevines and the potential qualitative values of products resulting from them;
That the definitions of old grapevine and old vineyard are useful not only as a supplementary tool to protect viticultural heritage territorial or to highlight current condition of vineyards but also to promote the plantation of new vineyards for the long term (i.e., planting vineyards to grow old);
That the concept of old grapevine could become closely associated with a balanced interaction between root development, plant vigor, and impacts on wine quality, being necessary to clearly identify and quantify the characteristics, in addition to chronological age, that are associated with a grapevine considered to be old.
These key factors led to the creation of The Old Vine Registry.
Alder Yarrow’s website states that the main aim of the Register is to have a database of 10,000 vineyards by 2027 and to do this he wants to recruit volunteers, “we need more volunteer vineyard hunters who are willing to do some research to get more vineyards into the Register”.
Alder Yarrow asks anyone interested in helping with the research/finding/compiling of vineyard databases to contact him personally at oldvineregistry at gmail.com.
The Old Vine Registry also needs financial support. “The Old Vine Registry was created with a generous initial grant from Jackson Family Wines, but we need ongoing funding to make it happen. Today, it is important for us to improve the functionality of the website: expanding the search function; integration of vineyard maps; creation of a database of photographs of vineyards, etc. If you or someone you know is interested in contributing to the world’s largest and most authoritative database of old vineyards, please contact us,” writes Alder Yarrow.
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Last week, the General Assembly of the International Organization of Vine and Wine (OIV) formally adopted OIV-VITI Resolution 703-2024 “OIV Definitions and Recommendations on Old Vines and Old Vineyards in the Viticulture Sector”. Among the main initiatives are named: “Conference on old vines”, “Project on old vines”, “Register of old vines” and the Italian “Censimento […]
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The 2024 grape harvesting and processing season is over. Winemakers worldwide are summarizing the outcomes, often with mixed feelings: in many regions, spring was too late, summer and early autumn too cold and rainy, or excessively hot and dry, affecting both the volume and quality of the vintage. What was the 2024 season like for Ukrainian winemaking, and how did climatic and other challenges impact it? Victoria Makarova spoke with winemakers and winery owners from various corners of Ukraine to piece the story together.
Zakarpattia
Hennadiy Vachilya, Director of Viticulture at Chateau Chizay, shares: “This season in Zakarpattia was both a challenge and a success. We experienced a warm but humid spring, leading to hazards of grape diseases. This was followed by an extremely hot summer, with temperatures reaching 40°C, and the start of autumn remained unusually warm, up to 35°C. As a result, most grape varieties achieved very high sugar levels, with other conditions, such as acidity, showing good results.”
Due to the heat, viticultural procedures were carried out at night, starting after sunset and finishing by dawn. The harvesting began 2-3 weeks earlier than usual due to the accumulated heat. “The rapid vegetation growth required intense care and mobilization of all available resources,” explains Vachilya.
Despite the challenges, the season was exciting, and the harvest quality was excellent, with many varieties showing potential for long-ageing wines. Vachilya predicts 2024 could be considered a vintage year for high-quality wines.
Gennadiy Gutman, founder and owner of Chateau Chizay, reported a significant reduction in harvest volume for 2024 compared to 2023: “This season, we collected almost 25% less yield by volume than last year (1,050 tons versus 1,421 tons in 2023). However, the grape quality is exceptionally high. The weather allowed the grapes to ripen very well, with sugar levels being among the highest in recent years. I believe this season can be compared to the very successful 2017 and 2018, when we produced wines that are now considered collectible.”
The hot summer and warm autumn significantly influenced the timing of the harvest but also positively impacted the quality of the grapes. “Czersegiand Blaufränkisch performed exceptionally well. We conducted an early harvesting for sparkling wines, and the conditions were excellent,” says Gennadiy Gutman. “For the first time, we also carried out an early harvest of Pinot Noir, and it’s very promising. We’re keeping our plans for this wine under wraps for now and are eagerly awaiting the results.” According to the owner of Chateau Chizay, this year Traminer Rosé performed exceptionally well, achieving a sugar level of 26%. The winery plans to use it for a new vintage of their signature dessert wine, “Trojanda Karpat.” Red varieties also showed great potential. “The 2024 Pinot Noir is simply stunning,” shares Hennadiy Gutman. “During the harvest, some of the berries were already sun-dried, promising exceptionally high-quality wine with aging potential.” For the Pinot Noir harvest, the winery’s entire office team joined in to assist the vinergrowers. The last variety harvested this season was Cabernet Sauvignon. Although rains delayed the process, particularly on the slopes of the Mala Hora area (where tractors couldn’t access the vineyards due to muddy conditions), the grapes were ultimately harvested at peak ripeness, showing excellent promise according to Gennadiy Gutman.
Beyond the climate-specific challenges of individual regions, there are broader issues affecting nearly all businesses in Ukraine, and winemaking is no exception. Among the most widespread challenges are the steep rise in costs for essential materials, such as fuel and vineyard care products, and a labor shortage. Despite these difficulties, Zakarpattia offers reasons for optimism.
“The season was a bit nerve-wracking, but the result was worth it. Quality Ukrainian wine from Zakarpattia is here to stay! Good things are ahead!” assures Gennadiy Gutman.
Throughout the winter and spring, until late May, there were continuous rains, but summer turned out to be exceptionally sunny and hot. As a result, the grape harvest began earlier than usual, with almost all grapes collected by September 10.
“We have definitely felt the impact of climate change over the past five years,” comments Giorgi. “In our terroir, many grape varieties have started ripening almost simultaneously. This has halved the duration of the harvest season, requiring us to work twice as intensively during the harvest.”
Considering the specific weather conditions this year, SHABO harvested 3,000 tons of grapes — significantly less than in 2023, when they gathered 4,800 tons. Despite the lower yield, the winery owners are pleased with the outcome.
“The 2024 vintage is of exceptionally high quality, and we hope this will be a ‘great’ year,” says Iukuridze. “By the way, 2022 and 2023 also gave us excellent, high-quality vintages. It seems God is on our side.”
However, Giorgi Iukuridze sees the biggest challenge for SHABO not in climate change but in the shortage of labor and highly skilled specialists. According to him, this issue has been ongoing for several years and is not solely related to the war. Addressing this problem remains a key task for the winery’s owners moving forward.
Photo: SHABO winery
Southern Bessarabia
The 2024 season in this part of Odesa region was also challenging. “This year was extremely hot, and we started the harvesting almost 20 days earlier than planned — on August 12. Everything ripened almost simultaneously, and we had to prioritize our tasks. We picked the Pinot Gris just on time, with sugar levels already reaching their limits,” shares Kostyantyn Tintulov, co-owner of Villa Tinta winery.
According to his estimates, this year’s harvest volume is nearly 1.5 times lower than last year. Combined with other challenges such as increased tax burdens and labor shortages, this will raise the production cost of wine. However, the quality of this vintage is significantly higher than in 2023, aligning with the general trend.
Additionally, Villa Tinta is undergoing certain technological changes. “We have engaged consultants to improve preservation and enhance the quality of our wines. For example, our 2024 vintage white wines now have better preservation due to the use of sur lie technology (aging wine on yeast lees remaining after fermentation). We aim to create more complex, sophisticated, and stable white wines this year, with an excellent structure while maintaining freshness and a strong reflection of the terroir,” Kostyantyn shares his expectations.
Villa Tinta is renowned for its Odesa Black – a flagship Ukrainian red variety, which is also well-known beyond Ukraine.
This year, the harvest of Odesa Black at Villa Tinta amounted to 120 tons – almost three times less than in 2023. As for the quality of this variety’s harvest, 2024 is considered a success: “The grapes were picked on time and in excellent condition – sugar, tannins, and acidity are in perfect balance. The alcohol level is expected to be slightly lower than usual – we’ll see what is happening after fermentation is complete,” summarizes Kostyantyn Tintulov.
Photo: Villa Tinta – Vinhol Oksamitne
Mykolaiv region
Mykolaiv region, located in southern Ukraine on the Black Sea coast, experienced a challenging 2024 growing season due to unexpected spring frosts during the active vegetation period. These frosts caused significant damage, with many berries already formed on the clusters failing to survive. Svitlana Tsybak, CEO of Beykush Winery, noted that this year’s harvest is 15% smaller than in 2023 (when approximately 98 tons were harvested). The spring frosts had a more pronounced effect on red grape varieties than white ones, largely due to the location of the vineyards.
Yet the 2024 harvest in the Mykolaiv region has showcased exceptional quality, thanks to the very hot and sunny summer that allowed the grapes to ripen to ideal conditions. Svitlana observed that their wines, typically known for their high acidity, will have a slightly softer acidity this year, which she believes might appeal to consumers.
The harvest season, which typically lasts about two months — from late August to mid-October — was unusually short this year in the Mykolaiv region. At Beykush, all 17 grape varieties ripened almost simultaneously, allowing the entire harvest to be completed in just one month.
“Overall, I can say that despite all the challenges, we are satisfied with the quality of the 2024 vintage. Now it is up to our winemaking experts to make it work perfectly. We are expecting some very interesting blends from the 2024 vintage,” summarized Svitlana Tsybak, the director of Beykush Winery.
Photo: Arsen Fedosenko for Beykush Winery
Ternopil region
“Ternopil region’s 2024 harvest was perfect!!!” This enthusiastic response, complete with three exclamation points, came from Oksana Buyachok, co-owner of the craft winery Father’s Wine, when asked about the season.
For the winemakers and vinegrowers of the region, this year was just as challenging and interesting as it was for the rest of Ukraine, characterized by intense summer heat and an unusually early harvest. For instance, in 2024 Father’s Wine began harvesting on August 26, much earlier than in previous years.“This summer was very hot for us, as well as for most of our colleagues, but we had better rainfall than they did in the south,” Oksana commented. “There were minor diseases in the vineyards, but we managed to overcome them. In the end, we achieved ideal conditions across all varieties and are expecting excellent wines from this vintage!”
Regarding production volumes for 2024, Father’s Wine is maintaining the same levels as last year, with an estimated release of 55,000 bottles.
Photo: Father’s Wine
Kyiv Region
The craft winery Biologist operates vineyards near Kyiv, in the villages of Lisnyky and Bezradichy, as well as in Odesa region. According to co-owner and winemaker Ihor Petrenko, 2024 was a challenging year. “The main problem was the abnormal heat in July, which caused the harvest to start two weeks earlier than expected, leaving us unprepared,” Ihor explained. Another significant challenge was the simultaneous ripening of white and red grape varieties, particularly in Odesa region. In Ihor’s opinion, Odesa has become too hot for growing white grape varieties, which are unable to develop the desired acidity. As a result, Biologist may stop cultivating these varieties in the region in the future. Labor shortages, especially in southern Ukraine, further exacerbated the situation. The simultaneous ripening of white and red varieties meant they couldn’t harvest the Pinot Noir on time, leading to slight overripening.
Unlike the challenges in Odesa, the vineyards near Kyiv are thriving. The owners of Biologist plan to continue expanding their “land bank,” planting about half a hectare of new vineyards annually. The planting density is rather high — approximately 10,000 vines per hectare — due to the growing cost of land in the Kyiv region. Both viticulture and grape harvesting are done manually.
This year, the Biologist team processed over 65 tons of grapes, an 80% increase compared to the previous year. Winemaker Ihor Petrenko noted that increasing wine production is a strategic priority for the winery, as they are actively expanding their export.
In conclusion, the best thing to say would be that the strength, talent, hard work, and remarkable resilience of Ukrainian winemakers are truly impressive. Where others might see setbacks and challenges, Ukrainian vintners find new opportunities. Giving up or surrendering to difficulties is simply not an option for them. We are incredibly proud of them — passionate artists of wine who continue to revive and create winemaking traditions, shaping and developing Ukraine’s wine culture, and writing its modern wine history.
Photo: Biologist
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The 2024 grape harvesting and processing season is over. Winemakers worldwide are summarizing the outcomes, often with mixed feelings: in many regions, spring was too late, summer and early autumn too cold and rainy, or excessively hot and dry, affecting both the volume and quality of the vintage. What was the 2024 season like for Ukrainian […]
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|Коментарі Вимкнено до “The season was a bit nerve-wracking, but the result was worth it”: Ukrainian winemakers report on the 2024 vintage
Respected wine critic, writer and nominee and winner of the Wine Travel Awards public vote in the Wine & Food Influencer/Expert opinion category – Tomasz Prange-Barczyński has recently published a book about unusual food and wine pairings on European routes.
Tomasz Prange-Barczyński is a journalist and wine critic who has been dealing with the topic of wine for a quarter of a century. He is the editor-in-chief of Ferment and the initiator, founder and editor-in-chief for many years of the bimonthly Magazyn Wino, which popularizes the culture of wine consumption in Poland. Mr. Tomas is also the author of the PIN do wina radio show and a translator of books on wine and judges famous international wine competitions. In 2023, in Krakow, during the ENOEXPO exhibition, where the presentation of wines and spirits of the Wine Travel Awards community participants took place, Mr. Tomasz presented the study “The present and the future of the Polish wine market. The best wine tourism places in Poland”. Mr. Tomasz is also a member of the talented and professional team of organizers of the Warsaw Wine Experience. At the 2023 exhibition in Warsaw, where Wine Travel Awards was the information partner of the event, Prange-Barczyński held a seminar “German Riesling and terroir” and presented an overview of the most famous Georgian wines.
“Riesling and tapas. About unusual combinations of food and wine on the routes of Europe” is not a cookbook, it is a journey with a story about the delights that the author felt in wineries, restaurants, taverns and bars during his travels. In his new work, Tomasz Prange-Barczyński outlines the varieties of wines with suggestions of the best culinary compositions.
The author takes the reader to different wine-producing countries. Tomasz Prange-Barczyński not only talks with enthusiasm about the tastes of different types of alcohol, but also about their combination with the peculiarities of local cuisines, which he tried: about the best sylvaners with asparagus, Venetian cicchetti with prosecco, a combination of baked octopus with pettanot and much more interesting and very tasty things. But wine and accompanying dishes are only part of this story, the book is filled with meetings with people, stories of places and local traditions. This book will not only awaken your hunger and thirst, but also inspire you to travel. In “Riesling and tapas. About unusual combinations of food and wine on the routes of Europe” included stories about Mr. Tomasz`s 24 wine and culinary travels.
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Respected wine critic, writer and nominee and winner of the Wine Travel Awards public vote in the Wine & Food Influencer/Expert opinion category – Tomasz Prange-Barczyński has recently published a book about unusual food and wine pairings on European routes. Tomasz Prange-Barczyński is a journalist and wine critic who has been dealing with the topic […]
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The professional exhibition of wines and alcoholic beverages, Wine&Spirits Ukraine 2024, took place in Kyiv at the end of October. The communication media group Drinks+ was the international information partner of the event.
This year, Wine&Spirits Ukraine was held alongside World Food Ukraine. According to the organizers’ estimates, over three days, more than 4,000 guests attended both events, with at least a third of them being professionals from the wine and alcohol industry.
“The main criterion for the exhibition’s success for me is the feedback from guests and participants, and this time it was very positive; the results exceeded our expectations!” comments the organizer of Wine&Spirits Ukraine, Victoria Agromakova. “Our most important task is to create a platform for effective communication between producers and buyers, finding new business partners, expanding the assortment for HoReCa and retail establishments, and promoting the development of Ukrainian winemaking and alcohol production. Based on the feedback, our team successfully achieved this goal.”
As part of Wine&Spirits Ukraine, an event by Wine Travel Awards was held – “A Holistic Approach: Paradoxes of Ukraine’s Import and Export,” where invited experts Robert Joseph and Richard Bampfield, both members of the WTA 2024-2025 jury, discussed global trends in the wine industry, the profitable connection between wine and tourism, and various advantages in different markets. After the exciting presentation by the well-known speakers, a tasting session was held, showcasing the best samples of drinks from the award community: wines from K’avshiri and Tenuta Manoylo, as well as vibrant liqueurs from Honey Badger. Additionally, all exhibition participants were treated to a surprise from the Drinks+ media group – at the media group’s stand and during the event, visitors had the opportunity to get acquainted with and receive the latest issue of the Drinks+ magazine.
Among the visitors to Wine&Spirits Ukraine 2024, the number of representatives from regional retail and regional HoReCa from various parts of Ukraine significantly increased, which, according to the organizers, is a sign of very positive business processes. Interest in Ukrainian wines and other alcoholic products created by domestic producers has also been growing each year. This was confirmed by the Wine&Spirits Restaurant & Retail Awards for the best assortment of Ukrainian wines and spirits in retail and the restaurant sector, which took place as part of the exhibition.
Wine&Spirits Restaurant & Retail Awards 2024
This year, 30 applications were submitted for the award, and the esteemed jury selected 13 winners in various categories:
Best Assortment of Ukrainian Wines and Alcohol in Retail:
Independent Retail Wine store “Vynny Krai” (Zhytomyr)
Store “Vynolovy” (Lviv)
Best Selection of Ukrainian Wines and Spirits in Wine Lists:
Wine Bars Wine Bar “Artania” (Kyiv)
Wine Bar ZWIN (Lviv)
Best Selection by Glass Wine Bar “Artania” (Kyiv)
Restaurants Restaurant MAREVO (Lviv)
Best Selection by Glass Restaurant MAREVO (Lviv)
“Both the geography of the applicants and the level of the assortment and wine lists presented impressed all the jury members,” says Victoria Agromakova. “Most participants work not only with well-known large producers but also with the most relevant and interesting Ukrainian craft. A lot of attention is paid by professionals in the wine and alcohol market to regional producers, but they also strive to create a representative picture of Ukrainian winemaking and the traditions of producing liqueurs, tinctures, whiskey, gin, vodka, and other alcoholic beverages. Once again, we are convinced: we have much to be proud of!”
Beer and Ciders at Wine&Spirits Ukraine 2024
This year, a special section for beer and ciders was created at the exhibition, where around 10 participants from various parts of Ukraine presented their products. The segment of these beverages in Ukraine is rapidly developing, and the quality and variety of products from domestic producers continue to grow, so the organizers hope to expand this direction in future exhibitions.
News from Ukrainian Importers
New additions to the assortment were presented by import companies at Wine&Spirits Ukraine. Ukrainian imports have adapted to the current challenging conditions and continue to introduce domestic wine and spirits enthusiasts to the best global products. What has changed in the approach to forming import portfolios, and what challenges are importers facing? Vadym Gurov, head of the wine and spirits department at the WINETIME chain – winner of the Wine&Spirits Restaurant & Retail Awards 2024 – shared his thoughts on this issue: “The import structure has a clear trend toward more budget-friendly options, due to rising prices amid inflation and a significant increase in foreign currency exchange rates. As the cost of imported goods increases rapidly while income levels remain relatively unchanged, consumers are seeking more affordable products.”
Does the Expansion of Ukrainian Wines and Spirits Affect Import Volumes?
“With each year, demand for Ukrainian products grows, and this is a positive trend,” Vadym believes. “Today, Ukrainian production is supported by all industry professionals, whereas about 10 years ago, it was only the prerogative of a few enthusiasts. As for the sale of imported alcohol in Ukraine, it is unlikely that volumes will significantly decrease in the coming years. The main factor here is the price of imports, which is often more competitive compared to Ukrainian products. Nevertheless, based on WINETIME’s experience, I have to say that consumers are now willing to pay more for Ukrainian wine.”
International Contracts
Among the guests of Wine&Spirits Ukraine 2024 were importers from Sweden, Denmark, Lithuania, and Estonia, as well as a delegation of buyers from Norway, who signed several contracts with Ukrainian producers during the exhibition. The recognition of Ukrainian wines abroad and demand for them is steadily growing – especially in the Nordic markets. The arrival of such a large number of importers in Kyiv, despite the martial law situation, indicates that European consumers are eager to see our wines on the shelves of their stores.
Ukraine Wine&Spirits Awards Competition: Experience and Prospects
As part of the exhibition, the Ukraine Wine&Spirits Awards 2024 tasting competition took place. This year, it gathered 225 wines, ciders, tinctures, and other alcoholic beverages from all over Ukraine and abroad. A total of 204 samples were awarded prizes.
According to the feedback from the esteemed jury, in the past two years, not only the quantity but also the quality of the wines and alcoholic drinks participating in the competition has increased – especially regarding Ukrainian products. “Considering this experience and the dynamics of development, we plan to elevate the competition to a new, larger scale. From now on, this event will take place once a year, separately from the Wine&Spirits exhibition,” shares her plans Victoria Agromakova.
So, we are looking forward to the next Ukraine Wine&Spirits Awards competition in April 2025. The Wine&Spirits Ukraine 2025 exhibition will be held on October 28-30, 2025, at the Kyiv International Exhibition Center.
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The professional exhibition of wines and alcoholic beverages, Wine&Spirits Ukraine 2024, took place in Kyiv at the end of October. The communication media group Drinks+ was the international information partner of the event. This year, Wine&Spirits Ukraine was held alongside World Food Ukraine. According to the organizers’ estimates, over three days, more than 4,000 guests […]
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|Коментарі Вимкнено до ‘Results Surpassed Expectations’: Summing Up Wine&Spirits Ukraine 2024 by the Organizers
In 2025, Vinexposium begins a new chapter in its history with Wine Paris-2025, which will take place on February 10-12.
2024 was a landmark year for Wine Paris & Vinexpo Paris (as the exhibition was then called), the flagship international event of the wine and spirits industry surpassed all its previous achievements and confirmed its reputation as the epicenter for business and all industry stakeholders, gathering a record number of exhibitors (4,070 from 48 countries, +53% international participants compared to last year’s exhibition) and visitors (41,253 from 139 countries, +30% key buyers compared to last year’s event). The opening of the sixth Wine Paris is just over three months away, which means that organizers and exhibitors alike are gearing up and looking forward to this exciting event.
In 2024, Drinks+ & Wine Travel Awards continued fruitful and active cooperation with Wine Paris & Vinexpo Paris – the exhibition became a nominee of Wine Travel Awards in Enogastronomic Events / Event of the Year. As part of the partnership, the Wine Travel Awards Guide 2022-2023 was distributed at the event – a unique printed and digital catalog that unites members of the WTA community. In the summer of 2024, Wine Paris & Vinexpo Paris announced a name change. Now the exhibition is called Wine Paris.
Involvement in the 2025 exhibition has already been confirmed by participants from various continents, including Henkell Freixenet, Gérard Bertrand, Baron Philippe de Rothschild, Australian Wine, Uruguay Wine, Les Grands Chais de France, Jackson Family Wines.
Wine Paris is an opportunity to meet your partners and interact with potential French and international customers in Paris. Participation in the exhibition maximizes the chances to improve the brand and product recognition.
Over the years, the international appeal of the event is growing and Wine Paris-2025 will present even more offers, with a variety of origins, products, opportunities and content. The program of master classes, conferences, tastings, panels and battles will also be powerful. The Vinexpo Academy program will take you on an educational journey where you will learn about the trends, tastes and views that make up the world of wine and spirits.
The wide range of products and industry players represented in Paris, from small wineries to major international brands, is the essence of this inclusive event that covers all areas of the industry.
“Since 2020, the international reach of Wine Paris has become one of the pillars of its development. The exhibition lives up to its promises and confirms its role as a must-see event. Our duty is to support the industry in times of global challenges, namely geopolitical tensions, environmental issues, changing consumer patterns,” says Rodolphe Lameyse, CEO of Vinexposium.
In 2025, Vinexposium begins a new chapter in its history with Wine Paris-2025, which will take place on February 10-12. 2024 was a landmark year for Wine Paris & Vinexpo Paris (as the exhibition was then called), the flagship international event of the wine and spirits industry surpassed all its previous achievements and confirmed its […]
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|Коментарі Вимкнено до Wine Paris-2025: just over three months to go until the industry’s flagship event
The Wine Travel Awards (WTA) invites wine tourism professionals to become part of its vibrant community for the 2024-2025 campaign.
By joining, you’ll gain access to a robust, 1.5-year global marketing campaign designed to elevate your visibility and connect you with an international audience of peers and enthusiasts. This marketing campaign includes representation at exhibitions, in media, and at events across various markets. Building on past successes, WTA continues to expand, uniting members from over 44 countries and celebrating contributions from both established brands and emerging names in the industry. This year, we plan to broaden our geographical reach, and we are already welcoming new nominees from diverse parts of the world – from Thailand to the Nordic countries, where winemaking is just beginning to develop.
Our esteemed panel has included industry luminaries such as Robert Joseph (UK), Felicity Carter (Australia), Per Karlsson (Sweden), Dr. Prof. h.c. Gergely Szolnoki (Germany), Stephane Badet (France), Yang Shen (New Zealand), Paul Wagner (USA), Richard Bampfield MW (UK), Paul Robert Blom (Netherlands), Matthew Horkey (USA), Marinela Ardelean (Romania), and Filippo Magnani (Italy).
Previous campaigns have set high standards, forming partnerships with renowned wine labels like Asti DOCG, and spotlighting participants at major industry events such as ProWein, Wine Paris, Vinitaly and the London Wine Fair, alongside multiple local market activations. This year’s awards structure includes six distinct categories to honor the diverse talents within the wine tourism industry:
¹ Note:The ‘Wine Guide’ category is positioned under Business-Focused Categories because it welcomes both businesses, such as travel operators and wine tourism providers, as well as individual guides, reflecting its broad scope within the industry.
These categories cover a broad range of contributions, celebrating both businesses and individuals, and are crafted to recognize innovative leaders aligned with emerging trends in wine tourism. The WTA platform highlights influential personalities and brands, enhancing the global wine community’s rich and diverse tapestry. By participating in the Wine Travel Awards 2024-2025, you’ll broaden your global reach, boost your brand, and connect with a network dedicated to advancing excellence and innovation in wine tourism, as well as supporting the promotion, export, and distribution of wines and spirits.
Reduced fees for an extended, high-impact marketing campaign¹
An early promotional boost for maximum visibility
Priority access to updates and WTA community events for networking and collaboration
¹ Note: The registration fee for one category is 380 euros. If you confirm two categories in the package, the cost of the second one will be 285 euros (-25%). Applying for three categories in a package, the third one costs 190 euros (-50%).
This is a unique opportunity for wine tourism professionals to leverage WTA’s expansive network and resources. Join the WTA community and embark on a journey that celebrates and elevates the global wine tourism industry.
Register now to take advantage of the Early Bird Registration benefits and begin your journey with the WTA, where wine and travel meet excellence.
⇒ Join our social networks ⇒ Optimistic D+ editors will take this as a compliment.
The Wine Travel Awards (WTA) invites wine tourism professionals to become part of its vibrant community for the 2024-2025 campaign. By joining, you’ll gain access to a robust, 1.5-year global marketing campaign designed to elevate your visibility and connect you with an international audience of peers and enthusiasts. This marketing campaign includes representation at exhibitions, in media, […]
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|Коментарі Вимкнено до Stay Ahead with Early Bird Registration for Wine Travel Awards 2024-2025 – Open Until December 31st!
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Digital magazine subscription DRINKS+ 2020
• DRINKS+ magazine: information addressed to both, professionals in the domestic alcohol market and advanced lovers of quality drinks. • DRINKS+ magazine: news about the best and the most interesting beverages in the world, wine routes, legendary wineries and star restaurants. • DRINKS+ magazine: it is information about beverage and gastronomic exhibitions, contests and forums in Europe, America, Asia. • DRINKS + magazine includes news, expert advices, interviews with famous personalities, tastings articles, market researches, ratings, publications on national traditions and the culture of beverages consumption.
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Print magazine subscription DRINKS+ 2020
• DRINKS+ magazine: information addressed to both, professionals in the domestic alcohol market and advanced lovers of quality drinks. • DRINKS+ magazine: news about the best and the most interesting beverages in the world, wine routes, legendary wineries and star restaurants. • DRINKS+ magazine: it is information about beverage and gastronomic exhibitions, contests and forums in Europe, America, Asia. • DRINKS + magazine includes news, expert advices, interviews with famous personalities, tastings articles, market researches, ratings, publications on national traditions and the culture of beverages consumption.
The cost of an annual subscription in 2020: • 230 euros
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Журнал DRINKS+ – о самых лучших и интересных напитках мира, о винных дорогах, легендарных винодельнях и звездных ресторанах.
Журнал DRINKS+ – это информация о напиточных и гастрономических выставках, конкурсах и форумах Европы, Америки, Азии.
Журнал DRINKS+ – это новости, советы специалистов, интервью с известными личностями, тесты, исследования рынка, рейтинги, материалы о дегустациях, публикации о национальных традициях и культуре потребления напитков.
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Ждем Ваши заявки по тел. +38 067 405 62 03
E-mail: gabrelka@ukr.net
ПОДПИСКА на журнал DRINKS+ на 2020 год
Журнал DRINKS+ – специализированное издание с уникальной информацией, адресованной как профессионалам внутреннего алкогольного рынка, так и продвинутым любителям качественных напитков.
Журнал DRINKS+ – о самых лучших и интересных напитках мира, о винных дорогах, легендарных винодельнях и звездных ресторанах.
Журнал DRINKS+ – это информация о напиточных и гастрономических выставках, конкурсах и форумах Европы, Америки, Азии.
Журнал DRINKS+ – это новости, советы специалистов, интервью с известными личностями, тесты, исследования рынка, рейтинги, материалы о дегустациях, публикации о национальных традициях и культуре потребления напитков.
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Стоимость годовой подписки на один экземпляр журнала в 2020 году (10 номеров) составит:
1500 грн – при отправке по Украине
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IBAN UA223808380000026003799963479 в АТ “Правекс-банк” м. Києва МФО 380838
Ждем Ваши заявки по тел. +38 067 405 62 03 E-mail: gabrelka@ukr.net
