Gastronomy and Wine Portal

The Biologist winery based in Kyiv region has officially been granted Organic Producer status by Organic Standard, the first Ukrainian certification body for organic production, recognized in the EU, Switzerland, and Canada.

The certification meets both Ukrainian and EU standards. Biologist received it for wines produced from grapes grown in their vineyards in the Kyiv region (the company also owns vineyards in Odesa region).

“This process started three years ago and has finally been accomplished. It has been a complex and challenging journey of learning and research,” commented Igor Petrenko, Biologist’s co-owner and winemaker, on this joyful occasion.

The key principle of organic winemaking is the absence of chemical substances in the soil and vineyard, as well as the pursuit of harmony between humans and plants. Organic production is not just a trend. For Biologist, it is a philosophy rooted in the desire to offer winelovers a product that is both high-quality and natural. The Biologist team cares not only about consumers but also about the future of their homeland’s environment and nature.

“The Organic Standard certificate confirms that our grapes are grown with care for the ecosystem, without chemical fertilizers or pesticides. It may seem strange to focus on the land and vineyards during a devastating war, but we believe it is incredibly important. For us, organic certification is yet another step toward excellence,” reflects Petrenko.

Wines produced from grapes grown in Biologist’s certified organic vineyards in Kyiv region are featured in the “Pershotvir” collection. These wines are crafted from exceptionally high-quality grapes and made with minimal intervention.

“These wines are complex and quite different from classic wines,” says Igor Petrenko. “They have incredibly beautiful aromatic characteristics and a certain amount of sediment—this is because they are unfiltered. We are returning to ancient traditions, making wines without chemicals, using only natural treatments, and practicing minimal intervention. ‘Pershotvir’ is a product we are proud of, it demonstrates our unique terroir features and the principles we uphold: the purity of nature, the craftsmanship of the winemaker, and the pursuit of harmony.”

The Drinks+ editorial team sincerely congratulates the entire Biologist team on this achievement, which is significant not only for them but also for Ukrainian winemaking as a whole. We wish them incredible success and outstanding vintages!

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The Biologist winery based in Kyiv region has officially been granted Organic Producer status by Organic Standard, the first Ukrainian certification body for organic production, recognized in the EU, Switzerland, and Canada. The certification meets both Ukrainian and EU standards. Biologist received it for wines produced from grapes grown in their vineyards in the Kyiv […]

This year’s premiere of Valpolicella wines, coinciding with the 100th anniversary of the Valpolicella Consortium, will be held in Verona from January 31 to February 2. The event will gather 78 wineries and 106 invited journalists from leading specialized publications worldwide.

Most of the authors, specifically 73 individuals, hail from 26 countries, including Argentina, Australia, Austria, Canada, China, South Korea, Denmark, the UAE, Finland, France, Germany, Japan, Hong Kong, Israel, Kazakhstan, Latvia, Norway, the Netherlands, Poland, the Czech Republic, Singapore, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the USA.

WTA also received this prestigious invitation to strengthen the partnership as the Valpolicella region, home to this distinguished gathering, has been further highlighted for its excellence on an international stage. The Consorzio per la Tutela dei Vini Valpolicella, a key sponsor of the Wine Travel Awards, has nominated Valpolicella in the ‘Region of the Year’ category for the Wine Travel Awards 2023-2024, underscoring its significant impact and popularity among wine enthusiasts globally.

The event marks the beginning of celebrations for one of Italy’s most renowned wine denominations. The spotlight will be on the Amarone 2020, which officially debuts in the market. Christian Marchesini, president of the Valpolicella Wine Consortium, commented on the upcoming event: “In this special edition, Amarone Opera Prima looks to the future, particularly focusing on the new potential growth areas for the denomination in an accelerated evolving landscape. This shift requires a paradigm change based on renewed strategies and approaches. Our commitment to promotion is yielding results, with record participation in the event and 51 new members joining the Consortium in 2024.”

Christian Marchesini, president of the Valpolicella Wine Consortium

Amarone Opera Prima will begin on Friday, January 31, with an exclusive program for the national and international press, including two unique masterclasses.

The first, “Amarone: Iconic of Fine Dining in the World’s 50 Best” will be led by expert JC Viens*. Along with him, participants will explore the selection of Amarone presented in the wine lists of the world’s top 50 restaurants, as ranked by UK’s Restaurant magazine (Palazzo della Gran Guardia, 10:30 AM). Seven wines will be tasted: Meroni Il Velluto 2011 (Mountain Beak St, London), Cà La Bionda Vigneti di Ravazzol 2012 (Sezanne, Tokyo), Monte dall’Ora Stropa 2013 (Le Calandre, Italy), Zymé 2013 (Cenci, Kyoto, Asia), Buglioni Il Lussurioso 2016 (SingleThread, Sonoma Valley), Tezza Brolo delle Giare 2016 (Fat Duck, London), and Quintarelli 2017 (Eleven Madison Avenue, New York).

Following this, invited guests at Teatro Filarmonico will enjoy a refined lunch curated by renowned three-Michelin-star chef Giancarlo Perbellini.

In the afternoon, the Consortium’s Vice President, Andrea Lonardi MW, will present a spectacular second masterclass titled “The Memory of Time, A Journey Through Amarone’s Historic Vintages” (15:00 PM, Palazzo della Gran Guardia). This unforgettable tasting will introduce participants to Amarone Bolla 1950, Montresor 1969, Bertani 1975, Santa Sofia 1983, Cecilia Beretta 1985, Mazzi 1997, Bussola 2000, Marion 2007, and Cesari 2010. The esteemed names of these vintage wines exude brilliance, and Mr. Lonardi’s insightful commentary will make this an event to be remembered for generations.

The next day, February 1, the focus will be on “Valpolicella: 100 Years of the Denomination’s Past and Future.” The session will feature esteemed speakers such as Christian Marchesini, President of the Consortium,  and Carlo Flamini, head of the Wine Observatory at Unione Italiana Vini, moderated by Andrea Andreoli, director of Telenuovo.

The day’s events will culminate in a unique theatrical performance: actor and theater director Andrea Pennacchi will present a monologue titled ““Amarone, an Epic in Valpolicella” specially created for the centenary of the Consortium.

From 12:30, roundtable tastings from 78 wineries will begin, and from 16:00, the event will open to Amarone enthusiasts.

The festivities will continue on Sunday, February 2 (from 10:00 to 17:00). This day will particularly emphasize the pairing of Valpolicella wines with restaurateurs, ending with an event-appetizer titled “Valpolicella: Freshness and Creativity in the Glass,” organized by the the Consortium’s Young Group.

______________________

*Editor Note: JC Viens

JC Viens is a certified provider of WSET programs and teaches wine courses tailored to the needs of winemaking professionals, aimed at strengthening their careers and fostering business development. He also offers consultations on wine communications, including strategy and content development. JC Viens strives to enhance the reputation of Italian wines on international markets through effective storytelling. He holds a WSET Diploma level 4. For 12 years, he was a certified WSET wine instructor and later became an approved WSET program provider in Hong Kong, before moving to Verona in 2021, where he continues to conduct WSET Levels 1 – 3 courses. His passion for wine education led him to join the Masters of Wine program, during which he gained invaluable international insights into the world of wine. Throughout his wine career, he has conducted courses on winemaking in Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Italy. He has been an accredited instructor at L’École Du Vin De Bordeaux, as well as an ambassador for Italian wine at Vinitaly. An experienced wine judge for the Decanter Asia Wine Awards and 5-Star Wines (Vinitaly), he has also completed the rigorous Advanced Wine Assessment Course (AWAC), presented by AWRI to prepare judges for Australian wine shows.

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This year’s premiere of Valpolicella wines, coinciding with the 100th anniversary of the Valpolicella Consortium, will be held in Verona from January 31 to February 2. The event will gather 78 wineries and 106 invited journalists from leading specialized publications worldwide. Most of the authors, specifically 73 individuals, hail from 26 countries, including Argentina, Australia, […]

Join us on March 16, the prestigious opening day of ProWein 2025, the world’s largest wine and spirits fair, held in Düsseldorf, Germany. The Wine Travel Awards (WTA), an international wine tourism initiative representing members from 44 countries, in collaboration with Drinks+ Media Group, will present a dynamic event as part of ProWein’s meticulously curated educational program.

March 16: Opening Day Event – ProWein 2025

The “Introducing the Wine Consumer of the Future” This session will explore cutting-edge research and practical insights into the evolving demographics of winery visitors and wine consumers worldwide.

WTA Panel: “Sustainable Wine Tourism”

• When: March 16, 15:15–16:15
• Where: Business Forum ProWein – Hall 16, K05

Description:
As health, wellness, and sustainability increasingly define consumer priorities, this session will delve into opportunities for wine tourism businesses to adapt. Learn how to attract new audiences with innovative strategies, emphasizing environmental and economic sustainability.

Speakers:
The panel will be led by Dr. Gergely Szolnoki of Geisenheim University, with another distinguished guest speaker to be announced soon.

March 18: Closing Day Event – WTA and Wines of Ukraine Presentation and Tasting

On March 18, as ProWein 2025 concludes, the WTA, in collaboration with Wines of Ukraine, will host a compelling presentation and guided tasting of wines from Ukrainian WTA nominees and participants of the Wines of Ukraine national booth.

This tasting was made possible thanks to the generous support of Dr. Ricardo Nunez, owner of the international wine group Vinos de La Luz and a passionate advocate for Ukrainian winemaking.

Presentation and Tasting: “Paradoxes of Ukraine: Winemaking and Tourism in Wartime”

• When: March 18, 16:00–17:00
• Where: Hall 12, D02

Description:
Discover the resilience and innovation of Ukrainian winemakers as six producers showcase their stories and finest wines. The session will highlight both emerging brands investing amid wartime and established leaders shaping the future of Ukrainian winemaking.

Speakers:
The tasting will be hosted by Nataliia Burlachenko, CEO and owner of Big Wines, part of the Vinos de La Luz group, internationally renowned for its patronage, support of progressive international projects, and investments in Ukraine. Other speakers will be announced soon.

Exclusive Preview: The WTA Guide 2023–2024

During ProWein 2025, the Wine Travel Awards will also unveil the latest edition of the WTA Guide 2023–2024, featuring vibrant print and digital catalogs of this year’s nominees.

Stay tuned for updates on speakers, featured wines, and registration details for these unmissable events. Don’t miss your chance to be part of these extraordinary moments at ProWein 2025!

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Join us on March 16, the prestigious opening day of ProWein 2025, the world’s largest wine and spirits fair, held in Düsseldorf, Germany. The Wine Travel Awards (WTA), an international wine tourism initiative representing members from 44 countries, in collaboration with Drinks+ Media Group, will present a dynamic event as part of ProWein’s meticulously curated […]

In the final three days of January, twenty-one wine specialists from eleven countries will convene for the now customary intensive training at the ‘Valpolicella School’.

These experts are enrolled in the Valpolicella 2025 (VEP) educational program, scheduled from January 28 to 30 in the DOC zone of the Verona district. Designed by the Consortium, the VEP program delivers an all-encompassing learning experience, featuring lectures, practical training sessions, winery tours, and masterclasses, culminating in two rigorous assessments: a written exam and a blind tasting. Successful completion awards participants a diploma certifying their expertise in Valpolicella wines.

Since its founding in 2018, the program has drawn professionals from around the globe – including sommeliers, journalists, wine educators, trendsetters, and other top-tier industry figures – who have passed these tests and earned recognition as certified Valpolicella wine specialists. The Consorzio per la Tutela dei Vini Valpolicella, a key sponsor of the WTA, has also nominated the Valpolicella region in the “Region of the Year” category for the Wine Travel Awards 2023-2024, further highlighting its commitment to promoting the region’s wine heritage.

Christian Marchesini, President of the Valpolicella Consortium

“The Consortium’s decision to develop a specialized education program was a visionary one,” evaluates this initiative, Christian Marchesini, President of the Valpolicella Consortium. “’It allowed us to create a community of experts in key markets for our denomination.” he continues, “Over the last three years, we have expanded VEP, adding two levels of training: a course for beginner consumers and an advanced study course for professionals. These courses can be taken both on-site and remotely online. Since 2021, we have certified over 700 Valpolicella enthusiasts worldwide. ”

Notably, this year’s VEP will take place on the eve of Amarone Opera Prima and will include visits to several leading wineries in the region, including Zýme, Pasqua Vini, and Villa Canestrari for educational sessions, as well as I Tamasotti, Talestri, and Palazzo della Torre by Marilisa Allegrini for production tours.

The training for the 21 candidates (from Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Latvia, Malaysia, and the Netherlands) will include five lectures from distinguished experts such as Maurizio Ugliano, professor of enology at the University of Verona; Alberto Brunelli, enologist of the Consortium; Paolo Veronesi, a lawyer appointed by the Consortium to protect the association’s interests worldwide; Giambattista Tornielli, professor of viticulture at the University of Padua; and Marianna Fasoli, professor of viticulture at the University of Verona. The tasting will be conducted by Filippo Bartolotta, sommelier and wine educator.

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In the final three days of January, twenty-one wine specialists from eleven countries will convene for the now customary intensive training at the ‘Valpolicella School’. These experts are enrolled in the Valpolicella 2025 (VEP) educational program, scheduled from January 28 to 30 in the DOC zone of the Verona district. Designed by the Consortium, the […]

The Wine Travel Awards (WTA) are proud to announce the launch of the WTA Guide 2023-2024, the third edition of its prestigious annual publication. Highlighting members of the WTA community from 42 countries, this essential guide offers a rich panorama of inspiring experiences and showcases the influential personalities shaping the world of wine tourism.

A Comprehensive Resource for Wine Tourism Professionals

The WTA Guide is a must-have resource for professionals and enthusiasts in the wine and wine tourism industry. Packed with insights into emerging trends, renowned wine regions, notable producers, and global wine tourism opportunities, the Guide serves as a definitive reference for industry leaders.

Available in Print and Digital Formats

The Guide is available in both print and digital formats, ensuring accessibility for a wide audience:

• Print Distribution: The printed version will be featured at major international wine and wine tourism events throughout 2025, including Wine Paris, ProWein, IWINETC, and the London Wine Fair, among others.
• Digital Access: The digital edition is available via the WTA Guide link and at digital kiosks at Wine Paris and ProWein.

Innovative QR Code Accessibility

The printed Guide includes QR codes that link directly to the digital version, offering readers a seamless way to access additional content and explore WTA community members’ profiles. At Wine Paris and ProWein, attendees can scan QR codes on posters displayed across various halls, granting instant access to the Guide on their mobile devices.

Distribution and Networking Opportunities

Scheduled for circulation at premier wine fairs and tourism events, the WTA Guide 2023-2024 is set to facilitate unparalleled networking and promotional opportunities for its participants.

WTA Community Members Benefit

WTA community members receive the Guide free of charge, with only logistic costs to cover. For those interested in purchasing the Guide, our team is ready to assist.

Advertising and Promotional Value

Produced by Drinks+ Communication Media Group, the WTA Guide is a distinguished advertising platform. With around 200 pages (A4 size) of curated content and various advertising options, it offers unmatched visibility at leading international wine exhibitions.

• Each issue has premium advertising options, offering brands an opportunity to showcase their presence to a highly targeted audience.
• The Guide’s strategic distribution guarantees exposure to over 150,000 wine professionals globally.

Targeted Email Marketing Campaigns

The Guide is also a key component of WTA’s targeted email campaigns, reaching a database of 23,750 international wine and tourism professionals. These campaigns aim to expand awareness, foster new partnerships, and attract distributors and consumers worldwide.

Elevate Your Brand with WTA

The WTA Guide continues to function as a vital resource for professionals, consolidating the WTA community and offering unparalleled visibility in the global wine and wine tourism markets.

To learn how to be featured in the next edition of the WTA Guide 2024-2025, please contact us at partnership@winetravelawards.com.

Join Us in Shaping the Future of Wine Tourism

The Wine Travel Awards Guide is your gateway to the global wine community. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this influential network – available now in both print and digital formats.

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The Wine Travel Awards (WTA) are proud to announce the launch of the WTA Guide 2023-2024, the third edition of its prestigious annual publication. Highlighting members of the WTA community from 42 countries, this essential guide offers a rich panorama of inspiring experiences and showcases the influential personalities shaping the world of wine tourism. A Comprehensive […]

ProWein, the world’s largest wine fair, will once again welcome participants and visitors from March 16–18, 2025, in Düsseldorf, Germany. This iconic wine and spirits fair not only showcases the latest trends and innovations in the global industry but also provides a glimpse into the future of wine.

Under the dynamic and promising slogan “Discover the Taste of Tomorrow,” exhibitors from over 60 nations will gather at the legendary Messe Düsseldorf.

A Fresh Look and Enhanced Layout

ProWein 2025 will unveil a modernized look and a more efficient hall layout, locating all participants, events and facilities in 11 halls of the Messe Düsseldorf. This year’s exclusive side events are set to be even more engaging, with an elevated ProWein Forum offering deeper insights into current industry trends and fostering meaningful exchanges within the sector.

ProWein 2025 is poised to become the ultimate meeting point for the global wine and spirits industries. The expanded Business Forum will feature expert lectures on pressing industry issues alongside high-quality Masterclasses. These enhancements create more opportunities to network with top industry leaders and professionals.

Peter Schmitz, Director of ProWein, emphasizes:
“In these challenging times, the interest in ProWein remains immense. We are investing significantly in new offerings and services to provide the industry with the exact support it needs now.”

Wine Travel Awards Events

On March 16, the opening day of the ProWein exhibition, the WTA – an international wine tourism award uniting members from 44 countries – will host a vibrant event as part of the educational program meticulously prepared by the ProWein team.

The event will feature the latest research from leading visionaries in the wine world and practical case studies of new visitor demographics at wineries and consumers.

To conclude the exhibition at ProWein on March 18, the Wine Travel Awards (WTA) will host a distinguished presentation and guided tasting, showcasing wines from Ukrainian nominees. This pivotal event, held live, is supported by the generous patronage of Mr. Ricardo Nunez, owner of the international group of companies Vinos de La Luz. Known for its global involvement in the most progressive projects and strategic investments in Ukraine, Vinos de La Luz’s support has been instrumental in bringing the spotlight to Ukrainian wines at this prestigious venue. The full array of wines presented will be complemented by insights from a lineup of speakers whose details will be announced shortly, ensuring a comprehensive and enlightening experience for all attendees. This collaboration highlights the ongoing commitment of Vinos de La Luz to foster international recognition of Ukrainian viticulture through their substantial support.

Date 18.03.2025
Time 16.00

Six Ukrainian producers will showcase their cases and finest wines in an insightful tasting session. The session will feature both emerging companies that are actively investing during the war and seasoned players in the industry.

The tasting, titled ‘Paradoxes of Ukraine: Development of Winemaking and Tourism in Wartime. Successful Cases of the Wine Travel Awards nominees,’ will be led by Nataliia Burlachenko, CEO and owner of Big Wines. Big Wines is a Ukrainian wine-making and distribution company within the international wine group Vinos de La Luz.

In addition to events, the Wine Travel Awards will also showcase the newly published WTA Guide 2023-2024 nominee catalog in vibrant print and digital versions.

Keep an eye on our updates for exclusive insights into the speakers, featured wines, and how to register for our events at ProWein venues – plus much more!

The Entire World of Wine and Spirits

ProWein 2025 is already shaping up to be a standout event.

The no/low alcohol segment continues to surge in popularity, resulting in a 50% expansion of the ProWein Zero area. Every year this segment is getting more and more interesting, offering new opportunities to taste and discover low alcohol wines and spirits that actually demonstrate good quality.

Germany will make a strong showing, occupying Halls 1 and 4. Highlights include representation from all major wine-growing regions, the VDP, the MUNDUS VINI tasting zone, and the Gastro-Lounge “urban gastronomy by #asktoni & ProWein.” Organic offerings will also shine, with a large section dedicated to individual exhibitors, the special show Organic World, and the sustainability prize CARLO by Fair and Green.

Italy, the world’s largest wine producer, will take center stage in Halls 15 and 16. Exhibitors will range from boutique wineries to well-established exporters, representing all 20 regions. The Italian Trade Agency (ITA/ICE) will host a robust program featuring Masterclasses and complimentary tastings.

France will present a curated selection in Hall 10, highlighted by the exquisite Champagne Lounge and an exclusive tasting of “Union des Grands Crus de Bordeaux” on ProWein Monday. Renowned producers like Castel Frères, Albert Bichot, and Gérard Bertrand will be present, along with iconic Champagne houses such as Nicolas Feuillatte and Champagne Mailly.

Spain will feature leading names like Miguel Torres and Codorníu, as well as strong regional representation from areas like Valencia and Castilla y León.

The New World will showcase its diversity in Hall 12, with participants from the USA (California, Washington, Oregon), South America (Chile, Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay), South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, and Asia (Japan, Korea, China).

Portugal will have a dedicated space in Hall 9, alongside a robust presence from Central and Eastern Europe, featuring 15 country pavilions.

Wines of Ukraine at ProWein 2025

This year, the Ukrainian pavilion in Hall 9 will feature 12 wine and spirit producers from across the country. We will publish more info about the participants soon, in the meantime, we are happy to confirm that many of them are renowned members of the WTA community. Stay tuned for more details, and best wishes for a successful showcase to Ukrainian winemakers who participate in the Messe despite the on-going russian aggression in Ukraine!

Spirits Take the Spotlight

Building on its success in 2024, the ProSpirits brand world returns to Hall 5. In addition to classic spirits, the spotlight will be on trending categories like whiskey, low-alcohol beverages, rum, and fruit brandies. A tasting zone and bar will be hosted by ISW (Meininger’s International Spirit Award).

Nearby, the same but different trend show in Hall 7.0 will feature craft spirits, craft beer, and cider, catering to trade visitors from trendy gastronomy, bars, and food retail.

A Must-Visit Event

Tickets for ProWein 2025 are available online, offering the easiest and fastest way to secure your visit. All tickets are personalized, and trade credentials are required, as the event is exclusively for professionals in retail and gastronomy.

For more information, visit www.prowein.com.

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ProWein, the world’s largest wine fair, will once again welcome participants and visitors from March 16–18, 2025, in Düsseldorf, Germany. This iconic wine and spirits fair not only showcases the latest trends and innovations in the global industry but also provides a glimpse into the future of wine. Under the dynamic and promising slogan “Discover […]

In early February, the wine world anticipates yet another grand event: Amarone Opera Prima 2025. What sets this event apart? In truth, each Amarone Opera Prima, traditionally held annually, is a grand celebration, as it features one of the most popular premium wines – Amarone. This year, the event will mark the debut of the outstanding 2020 vintage and celebrate the centenary of the Consorzio Tutela Vini Valpolicella (1925-2025).

Wine professionals, buyers, stars of wine journalism, and titled sommeliers from around the globe will soon converge on Verona to express their appreciation for their favorite – Amarone. The galas are scheduled for Saturday, February 1, and Sunday, February 2, 2025, in the majestic Palazzo della Gran Guardia (Piazza Bra). Among the invited guests will be representatives from the Wine Travel Awards, ensuring that members of our community and wine enthusiasts receive an exclusive report from this significant wine event.

Meanwhile, we are pleased to outline the forthcoming schedule for the organizers of Amarone Opera Prima. The twenty-first edition of this prestigious event, also marking a significant milestone of maturity, will begin on Saturday, February 1, with an inaugural conference for the press and accredited guests, followed by a series of luxurious tastings.

During this flagship event, Amarone, the main protagonist, will be presented to the global community accompanied by a gastronomic pairing inspired by local traditions. One can understand the envy of all who read these lines: it will be a unique opportunity not only to discover exceptional Amarones with exquisite pairing but also to interact with the most renowned producers from Valpolicella in an artistic atmosphere, within the walls of a famed historical and architectural landmark. As of today, the number of participating companies has nearly reached seventy. By the way, their names can be viewed here.

It should be noted that the event is primarily open to professionals, the international press, and buyers. However, should there be available seats, wine lovers and enthusiasts may also purchase tickets. It must be noted, though, that such an opportunity is rare.

Recall that one of the previous events, in 2023, showcased the 2018 vintage. Then, Amarone Opera Prima gathered: 64 wine-producing zones of Valpolicella, three hundred national and international journalists (about 100 from 20 countries), with over 1500 wine enthusiasts assessing the potential of the vintage. The focus of that event, organized by the Consortium for the Protection of Valpolicella Wines, was the completion of the procedure to inscribe the region’s winemaking method as UNESCO Intangible Heritage. Thus, this time, on its centenary, this esteemed organization of winemakers will present a list of significant achievements made for the glory of Vini Valpolicella.

We shall soon return with more stories from the forefront of this celebrated event.

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In early February, the wine world anticipates yet another grand event: Amarone Opera Prima 2025. What sets this event apart? In truth, each Amarone Opera Prima, traditionally held annually, is a grand celebration, as it features one of the most popular premium wines – Amarone. This year, the event will mark the debut of the […]

The 27th edition of the prestigious Mondial des Vins Blancs Strasbourg will take place on 5 and 6 April 2025 at the Palais de la Musique et des Congrès in Strasbourg. This unique event is the only competition in the world dedicated entirely to the diversity of white wines. Ukrainian winemakers are invited to participate free of charge.

As always, the competition will gather experts, judges and winemakers from all over the world. The event takes place under the patronage of OIV and VINOFED.

Drinks+ and the unique Ukrainian Wine Travel Awards project are information partners of the Mondial des Vins Blancs Strasbourg.

The organizers of the competition inform that participation is free for Ukrainian wineries!

In 2024, Ukrainians brought home six medals from the Mondial des Vins Blancs Strasbourg: 1 GRAN GOLD, 3 GOLD and 2 SILVER.

Registration for the Mondial des Vins Blancs Strasbourg is open until March 5, 2025.

Start sending samples from January 6, 2025.

As there is a growing trend in France and around the world to produce alcohol-free and low-alcohol wines, for the first time in the history of this prestigious event, de-alcoholized and partially de-alcoholized wines are invited to participate.

Wineries around the world have until March 5 to register their best white wines in 12 categories (Chardonnay, Chenin, Gewürztraminer, Muscat, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Sauvignon, Sylvaner, Viognier, Blended white wines, Other White grape varieties).

The organizers remind you that all the wines that won awards in the VINOFED competitions are subsequently included in the commercial platform Wine-searcher.com. This ensures excellent visibility for award-winning wines, which has a direct impact on increased sales.

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The 27th edition of the prestigious Mondial des Vins Blancs Strasbourg will take place on 5 and 6 April 2025 at the Palais de la Musique et des Congrès in Strasbourg. This unique event is the only competition in the world dedicated entirely to the diversity of white wines. Ukrainian winemakers are invited to participate […]

This Tuesday, January 14, ProWein – the leading international trade fair for wines and spirits – unveiled their ProWein Business Report 2025: “The Future of Wine,” sharing its results with partners and wine business professionals during the ProWein Business Talk: Shaping the Future of Wine.

This pivotal study, commissioned by ProWein and expertly conducted by the Institute for Wine and Beverage Business at Geisenheim University, brought together over 1,300 experts from the global wine value chain, surveyed in late 2024. These industry insiders from more than 30 countries, ranging from producers in major wine-growing regions to representatives of the food service, hospitality, and hotel sectors, contributed their insights to the report. This year’s enhanced methodology incorporated representatively weighted responses based on OIV data for both producers and trade indices, ensuring a comprehensive and balanced perspective.

The unveiling took place during the ProWein Business Talk, a gathering renowned for its focus on pioneering approaches within the wine industry. The session featured illustrious speakers such as Piero Mastroberardino, Vice President of Federvini and a renowned Italian winemaker, and Maren Lahm, Chief Marketing Officer at Henkell Freixenet Germany, who shared their profound insights on advanced marketing strategies. Prof. Dr. Simone Loose from Geisenheim University, a driving force behind the study, moderated the discussion, which began with an introduction by Peter Schmitz, Director of ProWein. He posed the central question: “How can wine marketing evolve in an era of declining global wine consumption?”

Building on this rich dialogue, the Wine Travel Awards (WTA) team, having been invited to participate, is set to further deepen the conversation. With a long-standing partnership with ProWein, WTA is at the forefront of this engaging platform, ready to share key insights from the discussions. Eager to broaden the discourse and contribute more comprehensively to the evolution of wine marketing, WTA will host two pivotal events on March 16th and 18th. The opening day will feature Session Four: Sustainable Wine Tourism, incorporating leading experts and WTA members from Geisenheim University. On the closing days, a special WTA nominees tasting event will take place in partnership with Wines of Ukraine.

These sessions aim to delve deeper into the themes presented in the Business Report, offering seasoned industry professionals and enthusiastic wine aficionados fresh perspectives and actionable strategies. As part of a series of discussions and presentations, these gatherings will explore innovative approaches to wine marketing and consumer engagement. Additionally, for the third consecutive year, the WTA Guide will be distributed during the event, providing attendees with invaluable insights into current wine tourism trends and future directions.

For those keen to explore the specific insights and strategic directions discussed during the ProWein Business Talk, and to understand how these could reshape business and market strategies, a comprehensive overview, including detailed findings from the ProWein Business Report 2025, is available on the official ProWein website: ProWein Business Reports 2025.

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This Tuesday, January 14, ProWein – the leading international trade fair for wines and spirits – unveiled their ProWein Business Report 2025: “The Future of Wine,” sharing its results with partners and wine business professionals during the ProWein Business Talk: Shaping the Future of Wine. This pivotal study, commissioned by ProWein and expertly conducted by the Institute […]

The International Wine Tourism Conference (IWINETC), a leading event for the wine tourism industry, is scheduled to take place this year at the renowned Mikulov Castle in South Moravia, Czechia, on March 26-27, 2025.

This edition is set to be particularly influential, with the conference focusing on new strategies to enhance global wine tourism. As usual, this international conference will attract key leaders from around the world, featuring a fantastic lineup and providing insightful moments.

Mikulov Castle in South Moravia

Anthony Swift, Director of IWINETC, will open the conference alongside leading officials from Czechia and South Moravia. The opening session will provide a detailed examination of the significant contributions of the Bohemia and South Moravia regions to the global wine tourism industry, complemented by tastings that showcase the diverse flavors and cultural heritage of the area. This event will effectively underscore the latest achievements of this prominent wine region.

Featured Presentation by Wine Travel Awards: Highlighting this year’s IWINETC, the Wine Travel Awards (WTA) will present “Blazing Trails in Wine Tourism – How Wine Travel Awards Foster Innovation and Connectivity“. This pivotal presentation will demonstrate how WTA utilizes extensive promotional tools to enhance the visibility and success of global and local wine brands among international trendsetters. It will feature insights and case studies from influential figures in the industry. Nataliia Burlachenko, CEO of Big Wines and ambassador of Vinos de La Luz, a key partner of the WTA project since its inception, will underscore the vital role of WTA in shaping the wine tourism landscape.

Conference Highlights:

• Paul Wagner, Renowned for his expertise in wine tourism and acting as a WTA judge for the 2024-2025 edition, Wagner will discuss how to strengthen regional brands through effective wine tourism strategies amid global market challenges.
• Robin Shaw will share insights on transforming traditional wine tasting rooms into destinations that emphasize wellness, sustainability, and luxury.
• María Adela Pereira Alvarez will address the role of technology in refining visitor experiences and maximizing revenue in wine tourism.
• Judith Lewis will provide digital marketing strategies essential for small businesses aiming to enhance their online engagement and presence.

The conference will also feature the Grand Tasting event, guided by national sommelier Klára Kollárová, offering an in-depth exploration of Czechia’s unique terroir and wines.

As always, IWINETC offers exceptional networking opportunities, with sessions designed to foster business connections between wine tourism providers and international agents, including the B2B Wine Tourism Workshop.

There is always a sense of eager anticipation about which destination will next play host to the conference. This year, participants at the conference will be treated to the eagerly awaited announcement of the host location for IWINETC 2026, offering a glimpse into the exciting future of this prestigious assembly.

About IWINETC: The International Wine Tourism Conference (IWINETC) is a leading event dedicated to advancing wine tourism. Each year, it gathers industry professionals, experts, and enthusiasts to share knowledge, network, and explore the future of wine tourism.

For more details on the conference program and registration, please visit the IWINETC website.

This year, marking the third time that WTA partners with IWINETC, promises to deliver an enriching experience, uniting wine tourism professionals from around the globe to discuss trends, strategies, and innovations in the industry.

⇒ Join our social networks ⇒ Optimistic D+ editors will take this as a compliment.

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• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/drinks-media-group

Photo: facebook.com/winetravel, freepik.com, lookphotos.com

The International Wine Tourism Conference (IWINETC), a leading event for the wine tourism industry, is scheduled to take place this year at the renowned Mikulov Castle in South Moravia, Czechia, on March 26-27, 2025. This edition is set to be particularly influential, with the conference focusing on new strategies to enhance global wine tourism. As […]