Gastronomy and Wine Portal

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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Photos: facebook.com/tomasz.prangebarczynski, lubimyczytac.pl, edugaleria.pl, spirits.com.pl

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 […]

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)
  • Specialized Retail
    Gastro-wine market chain “Winetime”
  • Regional Retail
    Hypermarket chain “TAM TAM” (Lutsk)
  • National Retail
    Supermarket chain Silpo
  • E-Commerce
    Everyday items market MAUDAU
• Best Assortment of Spirits:
  • ROZETKA
  • MAUDAU
• 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 […]

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.

More information on the official website.

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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 […]

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:

Business-Focused Categories:

• The Visiting Card of the Country
• Enogastronomic Events
• Education in Enotourism
• Wine Guide ¹

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.

Personality-Focused Categories:

• Wine and Food Influencer
• Wine Ambassador

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.

Early Bird Registration Benefits

Early Bird Registration is open until December 31, 2024, and offers exclusive advantages:

• 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.

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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, […]

Immerse yourself in the sensory exploration of the world of wine and spirits at the WTA signature event “Holistic Insights: Paradoxes in Ukraine’s Import & Export,” featuring a showcase of the Wine Travel Awards community’s finest wines. Scheduled for October 30th from 15:00 to 17:00 Ukrainian time at the Wine and Spirits Ukraine Fair, this event is a must-attend for industry professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Delve into a diverse and exquisite collection of wines during a walk-around tasting, where attendees will have the opportunity to taste and discuss standout offerings from both Ukrainian and international vintners. Notably, the creations of Robert Joseph and Vladimer Kublashvili, including their 2022 K’avshiri White and 2022 K’avshiri Red wines, demonstrate a harmonious blend of ancient winemaking traditions and modern techniques from the vineyards of Kakheti and Imereti, exemplifying the innovation at the core of today’s wine production.

Also featured will be the distinguished Tenuta Manoylo, presenting several of their acclaimed wines: the Passerina (2021 Tenuta Manoylo, Passo del Borgo, Marche IGT Passerina), the award-winning Pecorino (2021 Tenuta Manoylo, Passo del Borgo, Marche DOC Falerio, Pecorino), and the robust Rosso Piceno (2022 Tenuta Manoylo, Passo del Borgo, Rosso Piceno DOC). Their Pecorino 2022 Falerio DOC, a Silver Medal winner at the 27th Japan Wine Challenge 2024, is particularly highlighted for its exceptional quality that continues to elevate the Marche region as a prime destination for wine tourism.

Furthermore, the event will feature unique spirits from Honey Badger, including Nalyvka Blackcurrant, Nalyvka Cherry, and Nalyvka Cornelian Cherry, offering a taste of traditional fruit-infused spirits that are rich in flavor and heritage.

While the tasting is a significant part of our event, the heart of it lies in the insights shared by our invited experts: Robert Joseph and Richard Bampfield. They will discuss evolving global wine trends, the profitable nexus between wine and tourism, and varying preferences across different markets. These discussions will provide a deeper understanding of the current dynamics in the wine industry and offer foresight into its future directions.

Additionally, guests of the event will also hear from top leaders in the Ukrainian wine industry about their experiences, presenting case studies that showcase the resilience and innovation of Ukrainian wine businesses despite challenges and obstacles, highlighting Ukraine’s growing recognition in the international wine community and the opportunities ahead.

This bilingual event, conducted in both English and Ukrainian, is also accessible via Zoom.

This gathering promises to not only enhance your palate but also expand your knowledge of the wine industry’s rich and varied landscape. Join us for a day of exploration and discovery, celebrating the passion, tradition, and innovation that define the vibrant world of wine.

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Immerse yourself in the sensory exploration of the world of wine and spirits at the WTA signature event “Holistic Insights: Paradoxes in Ukraine’s Import & Export,” featuring a showcase of the Wine Travel Awards community’s finest wines. Scheduled for October 30th from 15:00 to 17:00 Ukrainian time at the Wine and Spirits Ukraine Fair, this event is […]

It’s always exciting to see wineries like Tenuta Manoylo not only uphold quality traditions but also innovate in viticulture and winemaking.

Their recent success at the 27th Japan Wine Challenge 2024, a highly respected competition known for shaping wine trends in Japan, is a testament to their dedication and expertise. Tenuta Manoylo’s Pecorino 2022 Falerio DOC won a Silver Medal, spotlighting the Pecorino grape – a varietal that deserves global recognition and highlights the rich viticultural heritage of Marche.

Tasting Notes on Tenuta Manoylo Pecorino 2022 Falerio DOC:

• Appearance: The wine showcases a vibrant lemon color with golden hints, indicative of careful vinification.
• Nose: The aroma is a rich mix of linden blossom, citrus, stone fruits, honeydew melon, and pear, enhanced by subtle mineral nuances.
• Palate: Dry yet smooth, it balances good acidity with flavors of white peach and orange peel, enriched by aromatic herbs and a long, fruity finish.

The Pecorino grape, primarily from Marche, is known for its robust, dry, and mineral-rich wines that age well. Tenuta Manoylo’s expertise has elevated this local variety to impressive heights. This accomplishment not only showcases the potential of Marche wines but also boosts the region’s appeal as a prime destination for wine tourism, inviting enthusiasts to explore its landscapes and wineries firsthand.

As wine communities evolve, awards like this highlight the importance of international competitions in promoting outstanding wines. Tenuta Manoylo’s work with Pecorino is setting the stage for wider appreciation of Marche’s indigenous grapes and its burgeoning wine tourism industry.

For those interested in this award-winning Pecorino or exploring the enchanting wine routes of Marche, visit Tenuta Manoylo’s website (https://tenutamanoylo.it/en/). It’s a must-try for those keen to experience the best of Marche’s wine offerings and the rich, cultural tapestry of its wine regions.

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It’s always exciting to see wineries like Tenuta Manoylo not only uphold quality traditions but also innovate in viticulture and winemaking. Their recent success at the 27th Japan Wine Challenge 2024, a highly respected competition known for shaping wine trends in Japan, is a testament to their dedication and expertise. Tenuta Manoylo’s Pecorino 2022 Falerio DOC won a Silver Medal, […]

From October 14 to 18, 2024, France played host to the 45th World Congress of Vine and Wine in Dijon, a city now home to the new headquarters of the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV). As part of the centennial celebrations of the OIV, Ukraine proudly introduced the international community to its unique autochthonous grape variety, Odesa Black. Drinks+ media group served as the media partner for the Ukrainian delegation at the 45th World Congress of Vine and Wine in Dijon. The event featured a presentation and guided tasting of Ukraine’s flagship grape, Odesa Black, as well as a discussion on “The Global Influence of Climate Change on the wine-growing zones of Ukraine.”

Despite the ongoing hardships caused by the war, Ukraine’s wine industry has shown remarkable resilience and growth, carving out a prominent place in the global wine landscape.

Thanks to the country’s European integration efforts, the number of winemaking enterprises has surged by an impressive 65% in recent years. Showcasing these achievements on the world stage is vital, especially as Ukrainian wines continue to gain recognition through prestigious international awards, the establishment of new wineries, and the creation of the “Wines of Ukraine” brand.

The Ukrainian delegation made a strong impact at the Congress. On October 16, they took the stage to share Ukraine’s rich winemaking history, the challenges it faces, and the opportunities available in today’s global market. A highlight of the presentation was the guided tasting of Ukraine’s flagship grape, Odesa Black, which captivated the distinguished international audience.

Guests were first introduced to Ukraine’s wine scene with a glass of welcome wine, BIG WINES Big Art Telti-Kuruk 2023.

Volodymyr Pechko, head of Ukraine’s official delegation and chairman of the public association “UKRSADVYNPROM”, set the tone for the event. “Today, we invite you on a journey through Ukraine’s diverse geography, exploring the effects of global warming on our vineyards and the legislative and promotional strides we are making. Our goal is to bring Ukraine closer to the global winemaking family and the OIV community,” he remarked.

Nataliia Burlachenko, deputy head of “UKRSADVYNPROM” and CEO of BIG WINES, delivered an insightful presentation on “The Global Influence of Climate Change on the wine-growing zones of Ukraine.” Nataliia reported that Ukraine’s average annual air temperature rose from approximately 7°C in 1901-1910 to around 9.5°C in 2011-2019. Research on the evaluation and zoning of natural moisture conditions across the country shows that southern regions, including Odesa, Mykolaiv, Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, and the Crimea, have become drier over last 50 years. As a result, new wine-growing regions have emerged in areas such as Lviv, Ternopil, Khmelnytskyi, Vinnytsia, Kyiv, and Chernihiv.

Following this, she led a commented tasting of five wines from the Odesa Black variety, all carefully selected from top Ukrainian producers for this special event.

• Winery Mon Crafto 2023

Region: Zhytomyr region, Andrushivka town, Ukraine

Aroma: prunes, chocolate, notes of currants and blackberries

Taste: rich, tannic, multifaceted with a hint of dried fruit

Ageing: 6 months in oak barrels

Alcohol: 13%

• Gigi Wine 2022 – Gigineishvili Wine House

Region: Vinnytsia, Ukraine

Aroma: developed, with tones of ripe grapes, mulberry and notes of sweet red figs

Taste: rich, moderately tannic with tones of aging and dried fruit

Ageing: 12 months in oak barrels

Alcohol: 14,5%

• BIG WINES Big Art 2021

Region: Odesa region, Izmail district, Reni city, Ukraine

Aroma: smoked cherry, blackberry, black mulberry, white and black pepper, prunes in chocolate, dark chocolate, eucalyptus, light notes of currant

Taste: balanced, rich, with the velvet tannins in the duration of the aftertaste

Ageing: 12 months in French oak barrels

Alcohol: 13,8%

• Maryan Shevchenko Winery 2020

Region: Odesa region, Ukraine

Aroma: aging in a barrel is felt, notes of prunes, figs, spices (black and white pepper), smoked plum, light notes of vanilla

Taste: rounded, drinkable wine, with high tannins, dried plum, smoked plum, black berries. Good potential for bottle aging.

Ageing: 10 months in oak barrels

Alcohol: 13,5%

• “Taïrovske Soborne” 2021 – “V.Ye. Tairov Institute of Viticulture and Winemaking» NAAS of Ukraine (dessert wine)

Region: Odesa region, village Tairove, Ukraine

Aroma: bright bouquet, dried cherry, prune, chocolate, fresh milk cream

Taste: full, high dessert, oiliness, dried cherry, prune, chocolate

Ageing: 12 months in oak barrels

Alcohol: 12%

Sugar: 21%

The Ukrainian delegation in Dijon is supported by Dr. Ricardo F. Nunez, thanks to whose efforts Ukraine was able to regain its place in the OIV, the owner of the international group of companies Vinos de La Luz and an investor in Ukrainian winemaking.

“Believe me I am very impressed of today. For me, as an investor, the most important thing today is to talk about the future of Ukraine. In this case, we, foreign investors, are only talking about the future. You have to be there before the victory to enjoy the victory and develop your own vineyards to be able to come everywhere. Today it is cheap, tomorrow it will be very expensive,” said Dr. Ricardo F. Nuñez, encouraging foreign businessmen to invest in Ukraine’s future.

Interest in Ukrainian wines is rapidly increasing. The tasting event was fully booked, with attendees eager to learn more about the country’s wine scene. Engaged and curious, the audience posed numerous questions throughout the session. Ukrainian wines garnered enthusiastic praise from international experts, further solidifying their reputation on the global stage.

Ignacio Sanchez Recarte, Secretary General of CEEV – Comité Européen des Entreprises Vins (Belgium): “It was a superb wine tasting. It is always good to be able to travel through the wine to Ukraine. I am impressed by the evolution of the quality. Personally, even though I know that the global appreciation of sweet wines is decreasing, the dessert wine that you presented was superb. Just amazing! I think that the choice of Odesa Black as a flagship variety of Ukraine is quite successful and promising.”

Pascal Durand, President of PNAcademy, professor at l’Institut Agro Dijon (France), has visited several Ukrainian wine regions in the past and is familiar with some of the country’s wines. However, Odesa Black was a revelation for him during this tasting. Afterward, he remarked on the intriguing diversity of expressions from different wineries, regions, and winemaking approaches using the same grape variety: “The aromas are remarkably distinct. I’m not accustomed to tasting wines like these—fruity, powerful, with a rich, full-bodied texture. But I can absolutely see why it appeals to many. Odesa Black offers exciting potential for food pairings.”

Julie Hesketh-Laird, Chief Executive of FIVS, an international federation that works for the overall sustainability of the global alcohol beverage sector, shared her impressions: “I was so excited to hear about Ukrainian wine today that I am really only just learning about. We tried some amazing samples today. It is great to taste something promising, putting Ukraine on the map, bringing Ukraine to the international organisations and wine communities where you belong.”

As Ukraine continues to showcase its winemaking potential on the global stage, the success of Odesa Black at the 45th World Congress of Vine and Wine marks an important milestone. With growing international interest and recognition, Ukrainian wines are proving that even in the face of challenges, innovation and tradition can thrive. The world is beginning to take notice, and Ukraine is firmly establishing its place in the future of global winemaking.

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From October 14 to 18, 2024, France played host to the 45th World Congress of Vine and Wine in Dijon, a city now home to the new headquarters of the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV). As part of the centennial celebrations of the OIV, Ukraine proudly introduced the international community to its unique […]

The Wine Travel Awards* is excited to announce a signature event at the Wine and Spirits Ukraine Fair, the leading professional event for wine, spirits, beer, and low-alcohol drinks in Eastern Europe. This pivotal gathering will occur at the International Exhibition Center in Kyiv on October 30th, from 15:00 to 17:00 Ukrainian time in the Masterclass Zone.

Esteemed Master of Wine Richard Bampfield and renowned wine critic Robert Joseph, both jurors for the WTA 2024-2025 edition, will lead a comprehensive panel discussion titled “Holistic Insights: Paradoxes in Ukraine’s Import & Export” Supported by a moderators, Richard will explore his interest in the broader aspects of the wine industry in Ukraine, focusing on sustainable practices and essential strategies for local producers, while Robert will discuss ways to enhance competitiveness in the international market.The session will also examine practical case studies of successful export and import projects, offering valuable insights into the dynamics of the Ukrainian wine industry.

Additionally, the event will feature a walk-around tasting of outstanding wines, giving attendees the opportunity to experience the quality and diversity of Ukrainian and international wines firsthand.

We invite industry professionals to register and participate in this landmark event as we explore the evolving landscape of Ukrainian wine, marking a pivotal moment in the global wine industry! Please register here. The event will be held both online and offline. 

For more information, registration details, or to engage with the discussion and ask questions to Richard and Robert, please contact us via winetravelawards@gmail.com. 

* The Wine Travel Awards (WTA), launched by Drinks+ Communication Media Group, is part of one of Eastern Europe’s most renowned and established media organizations, founded in 1993 in Ukraine and operating on an international scale. Specializing in the promotion of the wine and food industries, Drinks+ publishes leading media outlets in wine, gastronomy, and tourism. Its flagship publications, Drinks+ Magazine and the website www.drinks.ua, offer comprehensive global coverage in both English and Ukrainian.

*The Wine and Spirits Ukraine Fair serves as a key platform for global producers to connect with distributors, retailers, and representatives from the restaurant industry. It showcases the full spectrum of wine production technology and offers excellent opportunities for networking and business development.

The Wine Travel Awards* is excited to announce a signature event at the Wine and Spirits Ukraine Fair, the leading professional event for wine, spirits, beer, and low-alcohol drinks in Eastern Europe. This pivotal gathering will occur at the International Exhibition Center in Kyiv on October 30th, from 15:00 to 17:00 Ukrainian time in the […]

Just 8 days remain to dive into the revolutionary world of “The Wine People” by Robert Joseph, a seminal figure in wine journalism and a trusted member of the Wine Travel Awards jury since its inaugural year. This campaign is a rare opportunity to support a project that promises to shift the paradigm of wine literature.

In this innovative 240-page book, Joseph deploys artificial intelligence to breathe life into over 200 fictional personas, each embodying a distinct role in the wine industry. This isn’t just a book; it’s a gateway to the untold stories of the wine world, from vineyard workers to elite vintners, captured through a lens that combines decades of wine expertise with groundbreaking technology.

Robert Joseph, a revered friend of the Wine Travel Awards community, invites you to be part of this unique narrative that intertwines wine education with engaging, interactive experiences. Each persona in the book comes to life with QR codes that update their stories, making every interaction a new discovery.

Your support not only secures a signed copy of the book with your name printed in it but also aids Alzheimer’s Research, reflecting Joseph’s commitment to social impact through wine storytelling.

Don’t miss out on contributing to a project that redefines the art of wine communication, making it accessible, engaging, and profoundly influential. Visit the Kickstarter page here (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/winepeople/the-wine-people) to join Robert Joseph in making wine history and exploring the transformative landscape of global wine culture.

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

⇒ Every like is taken as a toast!

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Just 8 days remain to dive into the revolutionary world of “The Wine People” by Robert Joseph, a seminal figure in wine journalism and a trusted member of the Wine Travel Awards jury since its inaugural year. This campaign is a rare opportunity to support a project that promises to shift the paradigm of wine […]

English wine writer and winemaker Chris Boiling explores the Zakarpattia wine region in western Ukraine, uncovering the exciting potential of local grape varieties…

My search for lesser-known grape varieties with huge potential brings me to the Zakarpattia region, in western Ukraine. I’m crossing the Tisza River by train from Hungary to show my support for Ukrainian winemakers and to see if I can set up a small project to help promote Ukrainian wine, this relatively unknown wine region and its local grape varieties.

Zakarpattia, which borders Hungary, Slovakia, Poland, and Romania, translates as ‘Transcarpathian’ – ‘beyond the Carpathians’. Over the last century it has been ruled by Hungary, Romania, Czechoslovakia, the Soviet Union and Ukraine. In the Soviet era, it was designated as a “land of orchards and vineyards”, but most of the vines were uprooted during Mikhail Gorbachev’s anti-alcohol campaign in the mid-1980s. So, at my first stop, I’m excited to find some Bakator and Királyleányka vines from the 1960s – possibly some of the oldest vines in Ukraine. I’m also excited by the wide variety of grapes growing here. At the Sass K Winery, in the small village of Kígyós, I spot stainless-steel tanks filled with wines from traditional Carpathian Basin grapes: Királyleányka, Hárslevelű, Cserszegi Fűszeres, Szerémi Zöld, and Olaszrizling (Welschriesling). I also spot tanks labelled Traminer, Muscat, Chasselas, Riesling, Regent, Solaris, Cabernet Sauvignon and Saperavi. In a couple of other wineries I visit during my brief tour, I notice barrels filled with Chardonnay, Merlot and Zweigelt, and plastic tanks labelled Müller-Thurgau, Furmint and Zenit.

The standout surprise, however, is Bakator. In a mixed vineyard where many grapes have been affected by botrytis, the indigenous Bakator bunches are still clean. As well as being highly resistant to diseases, this variety produces wines with low alcohol and good acid structure. The Sass K Winery makes a fresh white wine from it and plans to use the variety to produce classic sparkling wines. “It has become very important for this region,” winemaker Krisztián Sass says.It’s the grape I suggest we focus on for our wine project, which aims to raise the profile of rare and underrated grape varieties. So far, the portfolio – due to be launched later this year – includes Kisi and Khikhvi from Georgia, Pearl of Victoria from Hungary, Debine e Zezë from Albania, Rumeni Plavec from Slovenia, Pugnitello from Italy, and two disease-resistant (piwi) grapes, Muscaris and Souvignier Gris, grown in Austria.

Krisztián, who has been making wine with his grandfather, Károly, since 2011, says we can use the Bakator grapes from the old vines. Krisztián farms 11ha organically. Most of the vines are above Kígyós, on Hazanéző hill – which Krisztián is trying to push as the region’s ‘cru’ site because the soil has a volcanic base and an upper layer of hard clay. As we wander between some rows and taste the berries, he says the plants are less productive now after a couple of years of hot and dry summers. The winemakers in this region, which looks and feels Hungarian, talk more about the weather than the war (at least in my company). A mild winter, some scary moments with frost and hail, and another hot and dry summer have all taken their toll on yields. But the quality of the grapes is good. When I arrive, the harvest has paused midway through, awaiting the passage of heavy rains – the fallout from Storm Boris, which devastated large areas of Poland, Slovakia, Austria, Italy and Romania in September. Outside the winery are basket presses freshly painted in case the electricity supply goes down during the harvest. “Four days ago, we couldn’t press and destem because there was no power,” Krisztián says.

Things have got a little easier generally, he informs me. After the Russian invasion in 2022, Sass K Winery bottled its wines by siphoning them from the barrels and tanks because there was no power. He also struggled to get hold of the right bottles and had to put his orange wine, made from Muscat grapes, in a bottle rejected for sparkling wines.

He believes there has been a sharp increase in quality in the region since 2016 but now it’s levelled off. “Is this due to the war?” I wonder.

He says some producers are investing in temperature-controlled tanks but are increasing their yields (or planting higher-yielding clones) to pay for it. The big talking point inside the winery is the Királyleányka. Krisztián welcomes me to the former chicken farm with a glass of sparkling wine made from this ancient Carpathian Basin or Transylvanian variety, a natural crossing between Leányka and Kövérszőlő. Across the border, in Hungary, it is used to produce fresh, light, fruity wines, with delicate aromas and notes reminiscent of grape blossom and sugar. And it is rarely matured in oak. Krisztián tells me he once hated this variety but says he likes it now “because I have from 2019 to 2024, and sparkling”.

It’s the fresh, light, and fruity version that he dislikes. He prefers it once it has aged and thinks it could be good after a decade or so because “it has high alcohol content, and high acid content. For example, average is 14% alcohol and more than 7g/L total acidity. In Hungary, they told me that it’s a smooth, easy wine with low acidity. Okay, but this area on top of the hill, the clay is very hard and the bunches are small and the berries are concentrated.”

This vintage, he has experimented by making the wine in three ways: whole-bunch pressed and destemmed – both fermented in used oak – and with some skin contact, fermented in a tank. This amber wine has now been on skins for nine days, which is high for Krisztián, who prefers to make clean, straightforward wines with low-intervention techniques. The three versions of Királyleányka will be blended and left on lees for a few months. Short lees ageing is typical for his white wines. He tells me he tastes the lees more than the wine to check the sedimentation is still healthy. Otherwise, his winemaking is very simple: spontaneous fermentation in barrels or tanks for whites, ageing on lees for a few months, clarification with bentonite, and filtered if there is some residual sugar. “Reds are unfiltered and unfined, and I usually don’t add sulphur for eight months at least because of malolactic fermentation,” Krisztian comments. Inspired by the Királyleányka experiments, we agree our project will involve Bakator whole-bunch pressed, as well as fermented on skins and co-fermented with about 5% of the extremely rare grape Szerémi Zöld. The final wine will be a blend of these components.

While in the area I also visit the small Parászka Winery in Bene, a village in the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains. One room at the family-run winery is crammed with plastic tubs, covered by cardboard, and plastic tanks. This year’s juice is bubbling noisily; the temperature in the room is controlled by a wall-mounted air-conditioning unit. Another room is filled with plastic tanks storing wine from previous vintages. There are no shiny tanks here – stainless steel is too expensive for brothers Gergely and László Parászka, who took over the winery after the early death of their father, György Parászka. Most of the wine from their 2.5ha of vines is sold to tourists. Degustations take place in a very old cellar, which was built by Italian prisoners of war who were captured by Austro-Hungarian soldiers during the First World War. Experienced miners, they dug six cellars in the Berehiv district in exchange for food. This is the last cellar they carved out of the rocky subsoil. They didn’t finish this one – the others have smooth ceilings.

Gergely and László’s Hungarian ancestors used to sell their grapes to the Budafoki State Winery in Budapest, where it was destined for the production of Törley sparkling wines. Their great-grandfather was exiled to Siberia and his vineyards were destroyed during the Soviet repression of peasants in the 1920s and 1930s. When he returned, he got his three sons together and dictated to them the family’s protocols for 35 wines. These form the core of the family wines, which are now sold under the Parászka Pincészet label. László says they have about 250 grape varieties in their collection, and that the Beregsász wine region has been referred to as Tokaj-2, because of the similar climate and grape varieties. He pours me a couple of fresh white wines – a Zenit and then a Furmint – and a Golubok-Alibernet red blend. Both varieties were bred in the Ukrainian Scientific Research Institute for Wine and Vines in Odesa and have Cabernet Sauvignon in their lineage. Alibernet also goes by the names Odesa Black and Odesskij čornyj in Ukraine.

Nearby, but at the other end of the production scale, is the Cotnar winery. It used to make 20 million litres of wine for the Russian market. Now it produces one million litres for the domestic market. It used to have 11 people working in the cellar at this busy time of year; now there are three. Crates of Isabella grapes are stacked outside the winery – awaiting the arrival of the ‘mashgichim’ so they can be turned into Kosher grape juice. The winery is large and industrial, but the wines I taste from the barriques in the large barrel-ageing room are of good quality. It’s a nice surprise. I taste Chardonnay, the only white aged in wood, from French and Ukrainian barrels. The Ukrainian barrels, from Sport 23, are an experiment. The wine seems less refined and has a bitter finish.

I also taste Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Saperavi from wood with winemaker Veresh Geizo. The wines here are commercial and the focus seems to be on international grape varieties.

The other big producer in the region is Chateau Chizay. I only have time for a burger at their restaurant, which I wash down with an orange Furmint. I’m told it’s their most interesting wine. Then it’s off for drinks with one of the local mayors. The guests have brought their homemade alcohol – wine, palinka and a surprisingly good cider which the producer describes as “a pet-nat with apples”.

When I return to Hungary, I open one of the bottles of wine I’d been gifted. It’s Sass K Winery’s flagship product, Karlot – a field blend comprising Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. I recall Krisztián’s words: “It’s our most successful wine, it usually scores very high in wine competitions. Many people wonder how Cabernet and Merlot can actually be of such high quality in Zakarpattia. The answer is very simple: amazing terroir and 60-year-old vines.”

English wine writer and winemaker Chris Boiling explores the Zakarpattia wine region in western Ukraine, uncovering the exciting potential of local grape varieties… My search for lesser-known grape varieties with huge potential brings me to the Zakarpattia region, in western Ukraine. I’m crossing the Tisza River by train from Hungary to show my support for Ukrainian winemakers and to […]