Gastronomy and Wine Portal

On April 30, the main voting stage of the Wine Travel Awards 2024-2025 came to an end. Our distinguished panel of judges has made its decision, and we are proud to announce the names of the winners and extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the participants of this year’s campaign – a campaign that united representatives from 44 countries around the world!

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Wine Travel Awards Winners:

1. Ambassador

Judge: Paul Robert Blom (Netherlands). A renowned expert in wine and spirits, Paul Robert Blom has served as a judge at major international wine competitions for over five decades. For more than 33 years, he has also been dedicated to educating future winemakers, with a special focus on underappreciated wine regions and grape varieties. He has been honored with the Orde van Oranje-Nassau, a royal decoration awarded by the King of the Netherlands for exceptional service to the country.

• Ambassador of the Year

Winner: #73 Chien Hao Chen

Chien-Hao Chen (Taiwan) – Associate Professor at the Department of Wine and Spirits, National Kaohsiung University of Hospitality and Tourism, and Professor at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University. He holds a PhD in Tropical Agriculture and a Master’s degree from the OIV program at Paris Nanterre University. Chien-Hao is a certified international wine educator (CIVB) and has been a respected judge at the prestigious Mundus Vini wine competition for over 15 years. He is a driving force in the revival of Taiwan’s wine industry and the creator of Vino Formosa – the only Taiwanese wine brand to have received multiple medals at international competitions. Mr. Chen was the first winemaker in Taiwan to obtain a French oenologist license. A professional sommelier, he has also served as a wine consultant for three Michelin-starred restaurants since 2010. In 2023, Dr. Chien-Hao Chen became the first in Taiwan to explore deep-sea aging with the launch of Cuvée Marina, which won a Gold Medal at the Union des Œnologues Vinalies International.

• Creative Strategy

Winner: #76 The Imeretian Wine Association

The Imeretian Wine Association was established in 2022 with the support and initiative of DMO Imereti (Destination Management Organization of Imereti). The main goal was to introduce the world to a unique corner of Georgia – the cradle of winemaking – the lesser-known Imereti region.

2. Education in Enotourism

• Cultural mission

Judge: Yang Shen (China/New Zealand) – Estate Director at Cloudy Bay, a renowned winery celebrated for its exceptional wines in New Zealand. He studied viticulture and oenology at prestigious institutions in France before embarking on a career that led him to key positions at Moët Hennessy and Diageo.

Winner: #22 The Cité des Climats et Vins de Bourgogne

This is a network of wine museums in Burgundy, located in three cities: Chablis, Beaune, and Mâcon. These unique venues invite tourists and wine professionals alike to explore the rich diversity of Burgundy’s wine culture.

• Unique Program

Judge: Filippo Magnani (Italy) – a renowned wine travel expert and founder of Fufluns Ltd. He is a graduate of the University of Economics in Florence and holds an MBA from Brighton University. Filippo is also a respected wine writer, known for his popular blog Tales behind the wine. He is an active member of several wine associations and serves as a judge at international wine competitions.

Winner: #180 GRANDE PASSIONE di JC Viens

The head of this educational company, JC Viens, embodies a universe of knowledge about the Italian wine scene. For the past 15 years, he has worked at the intersection of education, communication, and strategy – supporting wineries, consortia, and professionals in navigating international markets. His mission is to make Italian wine more understandable and valued around the world.

3. Enogastronomic Events

Judge: Per Karlsson (Sweden) is a renowned wine tourism expert. He has made a significant contribution to shaping the landscape of wine tourism, working as an editor and author for BKWine Magazine and Forbes. His company, BKWine, sets the standards for wine travel and gastronomic experiences. Per Karlsson’s work Framtidens Vin received the OIV Book Award.

• Event of the Year

Winner: #66 Charitable Gastro Dinners

The charitable gastro-dinners project is supported by the Ukrainian Chefs Association and a community of chefs from Ukraine, Poland, Moldova, Romania, Azerbaijan, and Georgia, who have united to support Ukraine. To date, over twenty charitable events have been held both in Ukraine and abroad. Since the focus of the theme is Ukraine, the dishes served at the Charitable Gastro Dinners are typically traditional Ukrainian cuisine with a unique interpretation by the chefs. Each dinner is accompanied by an auction where guests have the opportunity to purchase exclusive lots. The proceeds are donated to support the needs of Ukrainian defenders.

• Magnet of the Region

Winner: #200 Essência do Vinho 

A prestigious event that is a cornerstone of Portuguese wine culture. Organized by Essência in February 2025, the event showcased over 4000 wines from 400 local and international producers, including rare and exclusive selections. Essência do Vinho took place at the Palácio da Bolsa, a historic 19th-century neoclassical building. A highlight of the event was the “Revista de Vinhos – TOP-10 Portuguese Wines” by Cork Supply, where an international jury selected the country’s most interesting wines.

4. The Visiting Card of the Country

• Art&History Object

Judge: Felicity Carter (Australia) is one of the world’s leading wine journalists. She has held prominent editorial positions, including being the editor-in-chief of Meininger’s Wine Business International and executive editor of The Drop at Pix Wine. Currently, she serves as the editorial director of the London-based analytical center Areni Global and hosts the podcast A Question of Drinks.

Winner: #41 The Shumi Winery

The “Shumi” tourist complex, with its wine museum, Georgian ethnographic pavilion, and a variety of gastronomic experiences, is a must-visit destination for both wine enthusiasts and those interested in exploring Georgian culture and history. Located in a historical area, it borders the National Park and the A. Chavchavadze Museum. The “Shumi” complex was recognized as the “most beautiful place in Georgia.”

• Brand – the Visiting Card of the Country

Judge: Richard Bampfield MW (United Kingdom). A leading figure in wine commentary and evaluation. He is a wine writer with extensive experience in international wine education and consulting. Mr. Bampfield’s own consulting practice serves an impressive list of clients, including renowned wine producers and retailers. He is a passionate advocate for sustainability and supports wine producers in Ukraine.

Winner: #31 The Shumi Winery

Shumi Winery is a true emblem of Georgian winemaking and an annual winner of our awards in numerous categories! The wines of Shumi Winery are medalists (over 450 awards!) in most of the leading international wine competitions. With a history spanning more than 25 years, the winery has built an excellent reputation for producing high-quality Georgian wines. Shumi Winery exports its products to over 30 countries. The symbol of Shumi is the legendary Griffin (Faskundji in Georgian mythology). According to an ancient legend, it was the Griffin who brought the first bunch of grapes to humanity, which marked the beginning of vineyard cultivation on Earth.

• Must Visit

Judge: Prof. Dr. Prof. h.c. Gergely Szolnoki (Greece, Germany). A renowned authority in the field of wine market research and sustainable wine tourism. He is a professor at Geisenheim University and an honorary professor at the University of West Attica. He is a recipient of the OIV Book Award for co-authoring works on innovative models of wine tourism.

Winner: #62 The Shumi Winery

In 2013, UNESCO added the ancient Georgian traditional winemaking method of qvevri to the list of intangible cultural heritage of humanity. Shumi Winery continues the traditions of Georgian viticulture and winemaking with an 8,000-year history. In 2003, in order to preserve the genetic integrity of Georgia’s native grape varieties, Shumi created the first private ampelographic collection in Georgia, which is now considered the largest private collection in the world, with over 2,000 grape varieties from 47 different countries.

• Progressive Approach

Judge: Marinela Ardelean (Romania). Marinela Ardelean  holds an MBA and a PhD in Marketing and is the head of Wines of Romania, being a prominent figure in the wine industry. Her groundbreaking book, which combines Romanian wines with Italian cuisine, showcases her innovative approach to intercultural culinary pairing.

Winner: #38 Castle Bethlen-Haller

A Renaissance-style castle, built between 1560 and 1624, intertwines the stories of knights with winemaking heritage. Today, it warmly welcomes guests, offering dishes made from local ingredients sourced from the castle’s own farm, as well as accommodations in one of its fifteen rooms. From here, visitors can embark on a journey to four wineries: Jidvei, Tăuni, Blaj, and Bălcaciu.

Region of the Year

Judge: Dr. Matthew Horkey (USA). An educator in the field of wine, he has authored three influential books on wine and numerous articles, as well as created a wealth of thematic videos. His deep immersion in the world’s wine regions has made Mr. Horkey a respected judge at wine competitions around the globe.

Winner: #50 Piemont

Piedmont, located in the northwest of Italy, is a renowned wine region known worldwide for its rich winemaking traditions and diverse terroir. Piedmont is the birthplace of the noble Nebbiolo grape, as well as Barbera and Dolcetto varieties, and, of course, iconic wines such as Asti, Barolo, Barbaresco, and more. With deep roots in both viticulture and gastronomy, Piedmont offers an unparalleled experience for wine enthusiasts, combining exceptional wines with stunning landscapes and culinary masterpieces.

5. Wine Guide

• Top Guide

Judge: Paul Wagner (USA). A distinguished leader in the wine industry, known for his strategic thinking, marketing innovations, and involvement in wine tourism and education. As the founder of Balzac Communications & Marketing, he played a crucial role in promoting global wine brands through creative advertising campaigns. Paul Wagner is a senior consultant for the cruise company Expedia, which pioneered the development of wine tourism routes and was a nominee for the Wine Travel Awards, eventually winning the public vote.

Winner: #172 Oleksandra Minenko-Decamps

Oleksandra Minenko-Dekamp is the ambassador of Dijon Bourgogne and Climats du Vignoble de Bourgogne Patrimoine Mondial. She plays a key role in promoting the rich heritage of Burgundy wines. A member of the jury of prestigious international competitions, Mrs. Oleksandra excels in creating personalized wine experiences that immerse guests in the rich history and flavors of Burgundy’s most renowned appellations. Each tour is carefully designed to showcase the best wineries, cultural landmarks, and the authentic atmosphere of the region.

• Travel Operator of the Year

Judge: Robert Joseph (United Kingdom). A renowned wine critic, writer, wine competition judge, and flying winemaker. An important contribution of Mr. Robert is the launch of the International Wine Challenge, which has become a benchmark for wine quality assessment worldwide. He is also well-known for his educational role, lecturing on wine business and marketing at various international platforms. He is an author for Meininger’s Wine Business International magazine, Wine Intelligence, and others, analyzing trends and consumer behavior in the wine industry.

Winner: #58 BKWine Tours

Per Karlsson and Britt Karlsson are a talented couple of wine enthusiasts who have made a significant impact on the world of wine and tourism. Together, in 2004, they founded BKWine AB, a company specializing in wine tours, which has since become one of the leading global operators. BKWine organizes high-quality wine and gastronomic tours to the most beautiful wine regions of the world. Each year, the company offers around 30 wine travel experiences. Britt and Per have written twelve books about wine, with their latest book dedicated to sustainability and organic products in wine.

6. Wine&Food Influencer

• Expert Opinion

Judge: Stéphane Badet (France). A lecturer at the University of Bordeaux. Appointed by the French Ministry of Agriculture as a specialist in economic indicators and agroecology within the ministry. He has extensive experience as an expert and consultant in various viticulture programs worldwide.

Winner: #151 Chan Jun Park

Chan Jun Park is the world’s most renowned Korean wine expert. He has been actively involved in various aspects of the wine industry for over 20 years. He is the director of the OIV Asia Wine Trophy, the initiator and director of the International Wine Conference, a program held in collaboration with the Asia Wine Trophy, and the director of the Institute for Wines from Eastern Europe. He is also the vice president of the Korean Sommelier Association, a wine writer and author of books (“Wine is…”, “Moldova Wine”), a publisher, and a lecturer at Kyunghee University in Seoul. He represents Korea and serves as an advisor to the French company Break Events and judges at various international wine competitions. His seminar on the South Korean wine market has received high recognition both in the country and internationally.

• The Brightest Journey

Judge: Stéphane Badet (France).  

Winner: #131 Allison Levine

Allison Levine is the owner of Please The Palate, a boutique agency specializing in marketing and event planning for the wine and spirits industry. Before launching Please The Palate, Allison worked at The Tasting Panel Magazine/Blue Lifestyle, managing the marketing and events department. Always passionate about wine and committed to turning her passion into a career, she began her journey at LearnAboutWine, where she managed a wine education startup, organizing classes and private events throughout Los Angeles. As an industry expert, she has worked with wine regions around the world. She has lived and worked in Italy, Spain, and Mexico. She has received numerous awards, including being named one of the “USA TODAY 10 Best Experts” by the Reader’s Choice Awards and “101 Best Wine Writers of 2020” by Corking Wines, among others.

• Author of the Year

Judge: Prof. Dr. Prof. h.c. Gergely Szolnoki (Greece, Germany).

Winner: #139 Andrei Cibotaru

Andrei Chibotaru is the founder and author of the blog www.finewine.md, which is written in Romanian and provides information about Moldova’s leading wines presented in various corners of the world. Chibotaru is a journalist with over 15 years of experience, including in television journalism and online media. He is a wine expert and sommelier, accepted into ASI. He is a regular judge at the Berliner Wein Trophy, Concours Mondial de Bruxelles, International Wine Contest Bucharest, Eurasia Wine & Spirits Competition, and more. He was awarded the titles of “Best Blogger of 2016” by VIP Magazine and “Best Wine Journalist of 2016” by the Wine of Moldova organization.

Also, two Drinks+ Editor’s Choice Awards from the Communications Media Group Drinks+ were presented to the winners of the public vote:

The Association of Winemakers #181 Wines of the Silver Land (Ukraine, Zakarpattia), which is currently being registered as a geographical indication, won the Region of the Year nomination.

The globally renowned center for enological culture and wine tourism, #24 World of Wine (Portugal), became the winner in the Cultural Mission category in the Education in Enotourism nomination.

 

#85 Monsoon Valley Vineyard (Thailand) in the Must Visit category in the The Visiting Card of the Country  nomination.

In addition, the Wine Travel Awards jury traditionally presents a special Judge’s Choice Award. This year, the recipients are:

#184 Fongyee Walker

• Nomination: Education in Enotourism
• Category: Unique Program
• Judge: Filippo Magnani (Italy).

Fongyee Walker was the first to earn the MW degree on mainland China. She founded the company Dragon Phoenix to focus on wine education. Mrs. Walker teaches at all levels of WSET, both for professionals and wine enthusiasts. She has also worked at Tsinghua University and Cambridge University. With an impressive track record of teaching over 100,000 students, Fongyee continues to help new generations of wine lovers in China appreciate wine not only for its prestige but also for its true complexity and taste.

#81 Château Angelus

• Nomination: The Visiting Card of the Country
• Category: Art & History Object
• Judge: Felicity Carter (Austarlia).

The legendary Château Angelus, managed by the de Boüard de Laforest family, embodies the excellence of Bordeaux. Committed to ecological sustainability, the estate has received HVE certification and has opened a new type of enterprise – Carillon d’Angelus, a modern winery that adheres to strict environmental standards. The owners of the château also run a Michelin-starred restaurant and a farm specializing in organic products.

#146 Tenute SalvaTerra

• Nomination: The Visiting Card of the Country
• Category: Art & History Object
• Judge: Felicity Carter (Austarlia).

Tenute SalvaTerra is located in one of the most prestigious wine regions – the Valpolicella Classico area. Tenute SalvaTerra spans 600 hectares of vineyards in the Veneto region, extending from Lake Garda. SalvaTerra has eight estates: Tenuta di Prun, Tenuta Villa Giona, Tenuta di Mezzane, Tenuta di Cazzano di Tramigna, Tenuta di Montorio, Tenuta di San Martino Buon Albergo, Tenuta di Oliosi, and Tenuta di Vescovana. Tenute SalvaTerra was founded by the Furia brothers and is a winemaking project managed not only by the heirs of the Furia family business but also by a group of entrepreneurial investors involved in winemaking and the hospitality industry.

#109 Azienda Agricola San Salvatore 1988

• Nomination: The Visiting Card of the Country
• Category: Progressive Approach
• Judge: Marinela Ardelean (Romania).

The Azienda Agricola San Salvatore 1988 winery, owned by Giuseppe Pagano, is a true flagship of Cilento when it comes to biodynamic wine. Even in some of the world’s most renowned wine regions, the viticulture here is more innovative and thoughtful. The vineyard fertilizers are produced through the maintenance of a buffalo herd, the winery operates with its own solar panel system, and the estate’s consultant is winemaking pioneer Riccardo Cotarella. The wines of Azienda Agricola San Salvatore 1988 have won hundreds of awards, including 93 points from Robert Parker for Corleto IGP Paestum Bio 2022. Giuseppe Pagano and his winery were awarded the Parker’s Green Emblem in 2023 (at the time, only 11 wineries in the world held this distinction).

#206 South Africa

• Nomination: The Visiting Card of the Country
• Category: Region of the year
• Judge: Dr. Matthew Horkey (Unated States).

Wine tourism in South Africa is as diverse and captivating as its landscapes. With 23 unique wine routes, stretching from the historic wine lands of Cape Winelands to coastal and inland regions, visitors are offered a multitude of experiences. In South Africa, wine tourism is not just about enjoying fine wines; it is an invitation to experience the country’s natural beauty, cultural wealth, and the stories woven into each vineyard and bottle. Each route offers a distinctive combination of world-class wines, scenic views, and warm hospitality. Visitors can enjoy picnics in the vineyards, guided tours, and exciting tastings, along with more adventurous forms of active recreation.

#57 WildChina Travel

• Nomination: Wine Guide
• Category: Travel Operator of the Year
• Judge: Robert Joseph (United Kingdom).

Founded in 2000, WildChina is an award-winning company focused on sustainable development, specializing in creating personalized journeys across every corner of China. “We believe in the power of travel to transform, inspire, and bring people together, tirelessly working to perfect every detail for our guests,” says the company. It is this dedication, experience, and passion for exploring China that makes WildChina Travel a leader in the industry.

#204 Locoporvino – André & Karla

• Nomination: Wine&Food Influencer
• Category: The Brightest Journey
• Judge: Stéphane Badet (France).

André and Carla, the duo behind Locoporvino, are passionate content creators about wine and travel from Brazil and Guatemala, now living in Georgia. In love with wine tourism and having traveled to over 100 countries, they have dedicated themselves to sharing stories about the most fascinating wine regions of the world, often working directly on vineyards. Their journey began in the culinary world, starting as chefs at Disneyland, then working on a cruise ship in Hawaii and at a remote hotel in Alaska. The transition to winemaking was a natural development, combining their hospitality experience with a deep respect for viticulture.

The Wine Travel Awards team congratulates all the winners and thanks our esteemed judges for their work!

The bright highlight of this year’s awards will be the ceremony honoring the WTA winners in London. We would like to remind everyone that the focus of the Wine Travel Awards project is not only on victory and recognition: the true value lies in building friendly connections and creative collaborations. This is exactly why we organize our events.

We invite all those involved, as well as wine lovers, to join us on May 20 at Olympia London (Gallery Suite) from 10:30 to 12:30 for the Wine Travel Awards 2024-2025 Awards Ceremony.

And in the fall, we will kick off the 5th, anniversary edition of the awards. Join the community of progressive, active, and talented nominees of the Wine Travel Awards!

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On April 30, the main voting stage of the Wine Travel Awards 2024-2025 came to an end. Our distinguished panel of judges has made its decision, and we are proud to announce the names of the winners and extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the participants of this year’s campaign – a campaign that united representatives from […]

On April 23, Kyiv hosted the awards ceremony for the Ukraine Wine&Spirits Awards 2025. This year’s competition showcased 216 wines and spirits from every corner of Ukraine — from the Carpathian foothills to the southern coastline, featuring everything from boutique producers to established brands. A few international entries also joined the lineup, adding extra flavor to the competition.

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“It’s incredibly encouraging to see not only well-known, award-winning wineries competing, but also many ‘new names’ stepping into the spotlight and taking home medals. For many of them, this is an outstanding debut!” shared Viсtoria Agromakova, founder of Wine&Spirits Awards and WS Events.

The competition was judged by five expert panels made up of top Ukrainian specialists — including members of the Ukrainian Sommelier Association, leading retail buyers, specialized journalists, and industry critics. All samples were evaluated through blind tastings, following the standards set by the OIV (International Organisation of Vine and Wine).

“I am incredibly proud of all the participants who continue to impress tasting panels not only here but also at numerous international competitions, bringing home medals and prestigious awards. My deepest gratitude goes to all the jury members for their efficiency, fairness, and outstanding professionalism,” Viсtoria Agromakova added.

Competition Results: A Stunning 200 Medals Awarded!

The 2025 Ukraine Wine&Spirits Awards concluded with impressive results: 200 samples earned medals this year.
Among them, five Platinum Medals were awarded exclusively to outstanding spirits:

• Yanolinkt Whiskey Muscatel Cask (95.14 points)
• EGO by Eduard Gorodetsky 35 Years by Tiras Winery (94.71 points)
• Yanolinkt Whiskey Muskat Cask (94.71 points)
• Yanolinkt Whiskey Madeira Cask (94.29 points)
• Yanolinkt Whiskey Smoky (93.43 points)

The remaining medals were distributed as follows:

• 93 Gold Medals — for impressive quality and character
• 72 Silver Medals — for finesse and style
• 30 Bronze Medals — for vivid individuality

Ivan Bachurin, President of the Ukrainian Sommelier Association and Ukraine’s Best Sommelier of 2009, called the spirits results unprecedented: “In the grape-based category, the Platinum Medal went to a 35-year-old brandy by Eduard Gorodetsky — a complex, mature spirit, rich with evolved tertiary notes. The judges immediately recognized it as an exceptional and aged creation. Truly, a Top performer!

The other four Platinum Medals were claimed by single-barrel whiskeys crafted by Oleg Yankovyi. Aged between 5.5 and 7 years, each whiskey matured in superb first-fill casks previously used for Muscat, Port, and Marsala wines, with cask strength ranging from 47% to 49%. The Muscatel Cask whiskey achieved the highest score ever recorded in the history of the Wine&Spirits Awards (now in its 8th edition) — an outstanding 95.4 points! Overall, the entire tasting panel thoroughly enjoyed the blind judging experience. My compliments to Ukraine’s craft distillers!”

The title of Best Wine of the Competition went to Grande Vallee Brut 2018 — a white sparkling wine aged 60 months on lees, earning a score of 91.29 points. “This sparkling wine holds a special meaning for us — it even has its own slogan: Five Years of Waiting for the Perfect Moment,” shared Ksenia Filtseva, Brand Manager of Grande Vallee. “Two years ago, there was already high demand for this unique Brut, and we did sell part of it after 42 months of aging. However, the company owner decided to hold back the remaining release for extended ageing — a decision that truly paid off. This wine didn’t just wait — it matured in silence, gaining depth and complexity over time. Today, we proudly present the Brut 2018 as a new release with a full 60 months of aging. It made its debut at ProWein, where it received high praise from numerous international experts.”

Marina Revkova, Ukraine’s Best Sommelier 2021, holder of the ASI Diploma, and a student at the prestigious Weinakademie Österreich, has extensive judging experience at tasting competitions both in Ukraine and abroad. “It was the first time that out of 43 samples on our panel, not a single one was disqualified due to a serious fault!” Marina commented. “In my view, that’s already an excellent result. Of course, there were wines that required more attention from the winemakers — for example, better hygiene practices at the winery or stricter temperature control — but even these are improving year by year.”

Marina also shared important advice for winemakers submitting their wines to competitions: “First: taste as many European wines from different regions as you can — not to copy them, but to better understand what inspires you, and what unique Ukrainian style you want to create. Second: don’t let the rank of the medal (if it’s not what you hoped for) discourage you. Remember that 90+ point scores are most often awarded to French and Italian winemakers who are several generations into their craft. Here in Ukraine, we face war, a lack of information in our native language, and a slow path toward a clear legislative framework. What the French and Italians proudly boast about today, will be the heritage of  our grandchildren and great-grandchildren — if Ukrainian winemakers don’t give up and keep moving forward.”

Olha Todoriuk, Editor-in-Chief of Drinks magazine, was also impressed by the quality of the wines presented to her tasting panel: “The star of our panel was the Citronnyi Magaracha from SlipenKo, which scored 90.50 points — a vivid, fresh, and beautifully balanced white wine, a true example of how to work with indigenous grape varieties. Among fortified wines, the undisputed leader was the Ruby Port from Sun Wine Ukraine, with a score of 88.86 — a deep, rich, and very harmonious wine that made a strong positive impression on the jury. Among the top reds, I would like to highlight the Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Reserve from Chateau Pinot, and Bukkerò from Vino Demidi — both showed impressive depth and structure.”

Across all entries, white wines dominated both in number and in results: the majority of the top 10 highest-scoring wines were whites. “This trend shows that Ukrainian winemakers are becoming increasingly skilled at working with light, fresh, aromatic varieties and adapting them beautifully to the local terroir,” says Olha Todoriuk.

Olha also noted an impressive rise in the quality of sparkling wines from Ukrainian producers, reflecting a broader global trend: “The level, diversity, and character of the sparkling wines were outstanding. One of the highlights on our panel was my Wine Sparkling Rosé Brut from EGO by Eduard Gorodetsky — an elegant rosé with fine mousse, vibrant berry aromas, and refreshing acidity — a true discovery! Another standout was Odessa Prestige Brut Rosé from French Boulevard (84.43 points), with its delicate texture and lovely fruity profile. Among the whites, Brut White from Leleka Wines (also 84.43 points) impressed with its stylish, harmonious profile — a modern Ukrainian sparkling at its best.”

Natalia Blagopoluchna, President of the All-Ukrainian Association of Winemakers and Sommeliers and founder of Ukraine’s first Sommelier School “Master-Class”, has been a judge at the Wine&Spirits Awards since the very first competition. “Over the years, the organization of the competition has improved significantly — and so has the overall quality of Ukrainian wines,” she notes. “In terms of trends, I would highlight the wines that I scored at gold or even platinum level. One of my favorites was Citronny Magaracha by SlipenKo — one of the finest whites in the competition. Another wine that impressed me was Mushlya, a dry white from Bakota Bay Winery, which earned 89 points. I also want to mention the Johanniter from Fathers Wine and the Sauvignon Blanc from CHARA & GARRA. Among the sparklings, my top picks were the Brut by Leleka Wines (89 points) and the Rosé Brut from Eduard Gorodetsky.”

As for the reds, I immediately recognized the wine from Demidi, made from the Krasen variety. Using the appassimento technique, they created a wine in an Amarone style — a rare and sophisticated approach for Ukraine. It was, in my view, the best dry red of the competition, with outstanding quality. I would also like to highlight the Cabernet Merlot and Merlot 2023 by Valerii Narovylo, both gold medalists, and the red dry wines from Chateau Pinot — the Saperavi Reserve and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Overall, the competition is evolving in a fascinating way, and with each year, Ukrainian winemakers continue to achieve impressive results.New styles are emerging, and wines are reaching new heights of quality. Anyone who doubts the potential of Ukrainian wine is mistaken. Competitions like this help identify the best and provide winemakers with crucial insights for the future. Thank you!”

For a full breakdown of the Wine&Spirits Awards 2025 results, visit W&S Awards Results Page.

A heartfelt congratulations to all the winners — and to every participant. You are incredible!

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On April 23, Kyiv hosted the awards ceremony for the Ukraine Wine&Spirits Awards 2025. This year’s competition showcased 216 wines and spirits from every corner of Ukraine — from the Carpathian foothills to the southern coastline, featuring everything from boutique producers to established brands. A few international entries also joined the lineup, adding extra flavor […]

Spring is the time when the vines awaken — and with them, the season of fresh releases, tasting competitions, and major international exhibitions kicks off. Over the past few years, Ukrainian winemakers have become increasingly active participants in these global events — and they’re making waves. One particularly encouraging development is the unification of domestic producers under the Wines of Ukraine brand. Thanks to their joint efforts and the support of the Wines of Ukraine team, Ukrainian wines are carving out a place on the world stage.

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Among the most significant events in the global wine and spirits industry remains ProWein in Düsseldorf. This is where the crème de la crème of the international wine community gathers — buyers, major retail reps, sommeliers, experts, journalists, and influencers. Despite fierce competition and a crowded field, being at ProWein means being on the global wine map.

For the third year in a row, Wines of Ukraine joined ProWein with a national stand. This year, it featured 12 producers of wine and spirits from various regions across the country. Among them were Villa Tinta and Kolonist from the Danubian Bessarabia region; Chateau Pinot, 46 Parallel Wine Group, and Bolgrad from Odesa; Beykush Winery from Mykolaiv; Chateau Chizay from Zakarpattia; and from the Kyiv region — Big Wines, Biologist, and the craft spirits maker Honey Badger. Special mention goes to Artwinery, Ukraine’s most renowned producer of traditional method sparkling wines. The story of this company has become something of a legend: their plant in Bakhmut was destroyed by Russian shelling. But not only did they manage to evacuate a significant part of their irreplaceable collection from the labyrinthine cellars before the city was seized — like a phoenix rising from the ashes, Artwinery has since resumed production of its most beloved cuvées, relocating to Odesa region.

For Chateau Chizay of Zakarpattia, this wasn’t their first ProWein. Oleksandra Polishchuk, the company’s VP of development, shared her insights: “We had our own booth at ProWein in 2017 and 2018, but for the last three years we’ve joined the collective Ukrainian stand. And honestly, that was a perfect decision — it’s proven to be a powerful way to promote each producer individually while also strengthening the Wines of Ukraine brand as a whole. It allows us to team up on exports, present a diverse and engaging portfolio, and negotiate consolidated shipments with importers.”

According to Oleksandra, this year’s ProWein felt different from previous editions: “Compared to last year’s 30th anniversary edition, this one was more low-key. There were fewer visitors overall — but the quality of business interactions was much higher. We’re hopeful for new contracts and are already in negotiations with potential buyers.”

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Artem Skubenko, co-owner of Honey Badger, sees participation in events of this scale as non-negotiable: “If you want to succeed in export, you have to show up at least at one major international exhibition. It’s a way to maintain connections with current and potential partners, to stay on their radar, and most importantly — to meet new, interesting clients. ProWein is the most recognized international (not just regional) event. That’s why it’s crucial to be there. Plus, it’s not just about wine — there’s a huge variety of alcoholic products on display and a lot of fresh, exciting ideas. Our portfolio — traditional Ukrainian bitters and liqueurs, along with a brand-new line of Ukrainian gins — is truly unique and catches the eye of international buyers. We’ve made at least a dozen promising contacts, and we’re optimistic about turning those into real partnerships.”

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Svitlana Tsybak, CEO of Beykush Winery, Chair of the Association of Craft Winemakers of Ukraine and a Wines of Ukraine ambassador, also emphasized how productive this year’s ProWein was: “Because the crowd was smaller, we had more quality time with buyers. And the geographical spread of interest in Ukrainian wines has grown — for instance, we met with importers from Malaysia and Japan who weren’t just curious to taste something ‘exotic,’ but were actively scouting for new wines to add to their portfolio.

Overall, we were really impressed with the quality of the audience and the level of engagement. For us, ProWein is a genuine launchpad for business growth.”

Should winemakers prepare for an event of this scale?

“Homework is a must — it directly impacts how successful the exhibition is,” shares Svitlana Tsybak. “Ahead of the show, I go through our existing contact base and send out personal invitations to visit our stand. I also expand that list through networking and personal connections. As for the matchmaking tools offered by ProWein — they’re not quite effective in attracting buyers yet, but hopefully, they’ll be improved in the future.”

Drawing on her own experience as an importer, Svitlana also points out that for buyers, intuition plays a big role — along with the winemaker’s ability to spark interest. “Sometimes all it takes is a welcoming smile. You have to be open, make people want to stop by and taste. From there, it’s all about the quality of your wines.”

How did visitors at ProWein react to Ukrainian wines — especially those made from indigenous or lesser-known grape varieties?

“There was both curiosity and surprise,” says Oleksandra Polishchuk of Chateau Chizay. “For instance, many had never heard of the Chersegi grape variety. We produce sparkling wines from it — both Charmat-style and traditional method — as well as still wine. But the real star of the stand this year was Furmint, which we showcased in four styles: our barrel-aged Furmint, produced by the method of stabulation (not yet on the market), an Orange Furmint, and our award-winning Furmint Late Harvest. Visitors were genuinely intrigued to see how this iconic Hungarian variety performs on Ukrainian soil — and we were thrilled with the positive feedback.”

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Nadiia Krasilenko, Marketing Director at Bolgrad Winery, noted that visitors were especially impressed by their Chardonnay Grand Reserve, the red Odesa Black, and Odesa White — a blend of Sukholymansky and Chardonnay.

“What stood out to us,” Nadiia shared, “was the strong interest from importers in Germany, Canada, and Turkey. We also received great feedback on our label design, which we specifically adapted for export markets.”

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Kostiantyn Tintulov, co-owner of Villa Tinta — one of the most award-winning producers of wines from the Odesa Black grape — confirmed the growing appeal of local varieties.

“International experts responded very positively to our Odesa Black and Sukholymansky, local white. Recognition of these grapes has noticeably increased compared to last year,” he said. 

But wines made from European varieties — like Gewürztraminer, Riesling, and Chardonnay — also attracted serious attention. “Tasters were comparing our wines to their European counterparts, noting both the quality and unique character. Some were even a little surprised — in a good way!” he added with a smile.

Among this year’s trends, Tintulov pointed out the rising interest in Ukrainian bulk wines from buyers in the Czech Republic, Slovenia, and Greece. “They demonstrated strong attention to this issue, especially since 2024 yielded a lower harvest, and Spanish bulk prices have gone up.”

During the exhibition, several international visitors to the Wines of Ukraine stand also shared their thoughts with me on Ukrainian wines.

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Chan Jun Park, Asia Director of the OIV wine competition Asia Wine Trophy, Vice-President of Korea International Sommelier Association, Founder and Director of Institute for Wines from Eastern Europe, and the WTA public voting winner, has already tasted a few Ukrainian wines and plans to deepen this acquaintance in the future:

“My first Ukrainian wine experience was a sparkling wine produced by SHABO. It was presented in early March 2024 in Berlin by Kateryna Yushchenko, a wine expert and founder of the Wine & Spirits School in Kyiv. The sparkling wine was made from international grape varieties using the traditional method. I was truly surprised by its high quality.

My second encounter with Ukrainian wines was tasting sparkling wines by Artwinery at the Ukrainian booth at ProWein 2025. I tried four sparkling wines — one produced by the Charmat method and the others by the traditional method — all made from international grapes. The traditional-method sparklings showcased refined, well-balanced flavors with mineral notes. I really enjoyed them.

In my opinion, the price-quality ratio is very good. These wines definitely have strong potential for the Asian markets. However, as more and more winemakers in Eastern European countries are producing high-quality sparkling wines, competition will be intense.”

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Shahzad Talukder, Vice-President for the Association of Sommeliers of Germany, who visited the Wines of Ukraine’s booth at ProWein, says it wasn’t his first acquaintance with Ukrainian wines —  but the first time he’s tasted so many of them: “I was deeply impressed by the range of wines and their high quality. Of course we know Ukraine is a big country, but your wines are not presented so widely in Germany, so very little we know about. I was very impressed to find out that Beykush Winery is making Timorasso. This grape variety is quite rare even in Italy, where it originates from. I find both experimenting with unique grapes from all over the world, as well as promoting local grapes, fascinating. I think it demonstrates that Ukrainian winemakers have a deep understanding of wine technology and a vision of a diverse future for wines from Ukraine.”

Shahzad tasted several samples made from indigenous and local varieties, and he believes these wines have a chance to win the German market — despite a very strong competition from local and foreign producers: “Telti Kuruk is a Ukrainian grape variety which probably has the best chances to settle on the market. The name of the grape is relatively easy to pronounce for central-europeans, and the flavour profile is close to that of Pinot Gris and Trebbiano, a little more complex. I am sure it has a chance to find its consumers”. 

Shahzad believes that now is the best time to promote Ukrainian wines in the west:  “There is a strong sense of solidarity with Ukraine because of the war, so people are open to Ukrainian products. You can combine the presentation of local Ukrainian grape varieties with more familiar ones, such as Syrah, Cabernet, or Furmint. Including well-known international varieties, especially in sparkling wines (the German market loves bubbles), can help introduce Ukraine as a wine-producing country and open the conversation about your native grapes.”

The war in Ukraine continues to shape how both Ukrainians and Ukrainian products are perceived abroad. It’s a powerful emotional factor — one that draws attention, stirs compassion, and inspires a genuine desire to support. The very fact that grapes are still being grown and wine is still being made in Ukraine — today, just as it was three years ago — still sparks admiration. But among industry experts from the UK, Sweden, Poland, Germany, the US, and beyond, that surprise has faded. What remains is respect. It’s safe to say now: Ukraine has claimed its place on the world wine map.

Have Ukrainian winemakers managed to turn the early wave of attention and solidarity — sparked, tragically, by war and the country’s brave fight for independence — into something lasting? Absolutely. The geography of Ukraine’s wine exports has grown significantly in the last three years. Today, Ukrainian wines are sold in the UK, the US, Sweden, Estonia, Poland, the Netherlands, across the EU, and in several Asian markets.

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Recently, Ukraine secured a new foothold in Germany, and, as the cherry on top, the importer is a company founded by Ukrainians. Ruslan Khan, co-owner of Munich-based BlackSeaWine, currently collaborates with wineries like Beykush, Villa Tinta, Kolonist, Frumushika Nova, and Stakhovsky Wines — and he’s not stopping there. “To many in Germany, Ukrainian wine is still a dark horse, and that’s exactly what makes it exciting,” he says. “We decided not to wait and became the first to import Ukrainian wine into Germany, because we see a fast-evolving industry that deserves its own niche here.”

Despite the large Ukrainian community in Germany, Ruslan says it’s the German consumers — known for being patriotic and price-conscious — who are actually buying most of the Ukrainian wine. “Even though Ukrainian wines aren’t cheap,” he notes, “it’s the Germans who are buying them, both in our shop and in the restaurants that now include them on their wine lists.”

So, what do German wine lovers reach for? “It’s definitely the whites,” says Ruslan. “Chardonnay from Stakhovsky and Kolonist, Albariño from Beykush, Irsai Olivér from Villa Tinta — these are all hits. And there’s also growing interest in white wines from local grapes like Citron of Magarach and Sukholymansky from Frumushika Nova and Villa Tinta. As for reds, Odesa Black is the clear favorite. We carry outstanding expressions of this powerful variety from both Kolonist and Villa Tinta.”

So, what’s the takeaway?
We’re gaining hard-earned experience, expanding our reach, learning how to work with our native and lesser-known varieties — and falling in love with them ourselves. More importantly, we’re getting the world to fall in love with them too. 

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Spring is the time when the vines awaken — and with them, the season of fresh releases, tasting competitions, and major international exhibitions kicks off. Over the past few years, Ukrainian winemakers have become increasingly active participants in these global events — and they’re making waves. One particularly encouraging development is the unification of domestic […]

Last year, Drinks+ proudly joined a select group of international media outlets supporting the high-profile debut of Judgement of London — an event paying homage to Steven Spurrier’s legendary 1976 “Judgment of Paris”, which sparked wide discussion across the global wine community. Inspired by the resonance and success of that tasting, London Wine Fair returns with a thrilling new theme: “Battle of the Bubbles”, […]

The morning light filtering through Hotel Kö59’s grand windows illuminated a wine industry at a crossroads as over 100 global wine executives gathered for the third annual Meininger’s Wine Conference on March 15.

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Sponsored by ProWein with Wine Travel Awards and Communication Media Group Drinks+ as official informational partners, this year’s discussions confronted the central question, “How to Find the Best Ways to Sell Wine?” with unprecedented urgency. For those arriving just as the conference commenced – some delayed by flights touching down at the very hour the event began – there was no gradual warm-up. The tone was set immediately: this would be a day of unflinching examination, where the industry’s challenges would be dissected without sugarcoating, and where solutions would need to be as substantive as the problems were deep.

The mood was palpably different from previous years. Robert Joseph, Meininger’s International Associate Editor and weekly columnist, captured it perfectly when he noted after his opening presentation, “Time for a Change?”: “The situation is fundamentally different this year. We’re not debating whether problems exist, but how structural they are.” His words hung in the air as attendees grappled with the new reality of shrinking margins, stubbornly shifted consumption patterns, and a global market that refused to rebound to pre-pandemic norms. Joseph had structured his talk with deliberate bluntness, explaining, “I put all the bad stuff in the first three minutes – shrinking margins, consumption shifts, stagnant recovery. Not to depress everyone, but because we need to stop pretending this is just cyclical or about Ukraine or COVID, or you name it.” Yet, in stark contrast, Joseph offered a glimmer of hope, saying, “However, I truly believe strong businesses will survive through one thing: branding. This is the direction we should look at.”

This unflinching approach set the tone for discussions that exposed the industry’s tendency to rationalize its struggles. Some participants still clung to the belief that current difficulties were temporary – mere aftershocks of pandemic disruptions or geopolitical conflicts. But the conference systematically dismantled these notions. The potential for new Trump tariffs on European wines loomed particularly large in discussions during the break. “It’s a nightmare,” Joseph emphasized. “Unlike China’s targeted tariffs on Australian wines, Trump could impose 25% duties tomorrow, rescind them next week, and then reimpose them capriciously. The uncertainty alone is paralyzing when ocean freight takes weeks.”

He continued, adding more context: “It may be that Champagne gets nothing, while other regions could get hit. We’ve seen this before, where Italian wines weren’t tariffed, but French wines were. That could change at any time. What’s truly frightening is that with China’s tariff on Australia, which reached 200%, we at least knew where we stood. There was diplomacy, and eventually, the tariffs were lifted. But with Trump, there’s no telling what will happen. It could be imposed, taken off, and then put on again. That constant uncertainty is terrifying. When you’re shipping wine to America, it takes a long time. You have boats crossing the Atlantic, and suddenly Trump may decide to retaliate over something. Today, Australia might feel safe, but tomorrow? It’s anyone’s guess. South Africa, for example, might seem safe, but Trump doesn’t like them. He could turn on them at any moment. This constant unpredictability makes the world a very uncertain place.”

After this thought-provoking opening presentation by Joseph, Prof. Dr. Simone Loose of Geisenheim University took the floor, discussing the shifting dynamics of emerging markets in her presentation, “Shifting Dynamics: Will Emerging Markets Compensate for the Decline in Established Ones?” She presented data showing how markets like China, with its economic growth and demand for Western luxury goods, offer vast potential for high-quality products.

Walking through the conference halls, one could trace the event’s evolution in real time. The first edition of the Meininger’s Wine Conference unfolded in 2023, with a focus on the pressing topic of sustainability, “From Production to Selling: Sustainability Redefined.” This had evolved beyond theoretical discussions into practical case studies. Last year’s technology showcase under the theme “Wine Goes Tech: From Robots to AI, from Vineyard to Shelf,” had given way to tangible applications changing how wine reaches consumers through pioneering technologies and how the wine industry can leverage them profitably.

This year, with the official topic “Wine Sales 4.0: Roadmap to the Market of the Future,” with talks on everything from appealing to new demographics to finding new markets, the progression felt natural, like watching a vine mature through successive vintages.

What became immediately clear was that traditional sales approaches are being challenged at every level. Millennial and Gen Z buyers – now representing nearly half of premium wine purchases – approach the category with entirely different expectations. This topic was explored in depth during the session “Key Factors, Cultural & Gender Differences: The U.S. Experience,” presented by Christian Miller, President of the Wine Market Council, whose research specializes in generational shifts in wine consumption.

Eliah Werner, founder of Young Poets, distilled this shift perfectly in his session “How to Engage with Gen Z”: “They’re less impressed by scores from critics or fancy chateaux they’ve never heard of, and more interested in the story behind the bottle. They want to know about the vineyard’s water conservation efforts before considering the tasting notes. What’s important to them in wine is simplicity, story, fun, and yes, sexy design. They’re just as likely to discover new wines through Instagram reels as they are from shelf displays.”

His point was underscored by Rowena Curlewis, CEO & Co-Founder of Denomination Design, who, later in her presentation “How Design Drives Wine Sales,” demonstrated how packaging aesthetics now function as silent salespeople in an overcrowded market. “A label isn’t just branding – it’s the first touchpoint in a conversation with a consumer who might never read your technical sheet,” she noted, showcasing examples where bold, minimalist designs outperformed traditional ornate labels among younger buyers.

Yet for all the focus on new consumers and digital frontiers, the conference didn’t shy away from the harsh economics reshaping the industry. Bourcard Nesin, Vice President of Research at Rabobank, presented sobering data in his talk “Global Wine Trends: Market Data Insights and Case Studies Driving Innovation,” showing how inflation and supply chain disruptions have compressed margins, particularly for mid-tier producers. “The squeeze isn’t temporary,” he warned. “Wineries that relied on restaurant sales pre-pandemic are finding that channel hasn’t fully recovered – and may never return to previous volumes.” His analysis was complemented by Claudia Burgdorf, Head of Corporate Consumer & Market Knowledge at Rotkäppchen-Mumm, who, in her presentation “What Will We Drink Tomorrow? Future Perspectives for the Wine Industry,” outlined how premiumization strategies are colliding with cost-conscious drinking habits. She explained that today’s consumers will pay premium prices for perceived value, but their definition of value has expanded beyond traditional markers of heritage and prestige to prioritize sustainability credentials, convenience, and experiential elements.

Sara Norell of Systembolaget offered a comprehensive analysis of the trends and opportunities shaping the Swedish market. She pointed out that although overall wine consumption is on the decline, there is a growing demand for no- and low-alcohol beverages, ready-to-drinks (RTDs), and ciders.

Norell’s session was followed by a panel on emerging categories, moderated by Dr. Anja Zimmer, Editor-in-Chief of Meininger’s International, which closed the day on a lighter, more informal note – resembling a casual conversation among old friends and colleagues. Experts including Wim Boekema (World of Nix), Sommelier Marc Almert (Baur au Lac), Claudia Burgdorf (Rotkäppchen-Mumm), and Willi Klinger (Wein & Co.) delved into the trends and potential of RTDs, non-alcoholic alternatives, and wine cocktails. These rapidly growing segments of the beverage industry sparked a lively – and at times heated – discussion, with a focus on the significant improvements in product quality over recent years. The session provided valuable insights into the shifting dynamics of the international wine market. As the afternoon unfolded, the throughline was clear: adaptation is essential. As Wim Boekema, Founder of World of Nix, aptly stated, “The brands that will thrive are those that stop seeing these trends as threats and start treating them as opportunities for reinvention.”

This year, the lineup was truly fantastic, and each of the 12 speakers provided many more insights than we can cover here, presenting in four key blocks: ‘Market Update’, ‘The Consumer of Tomorrow’, ‘Trade out of the Box’, and ‘Beyond the Horizon’. We’ve touched on just a fraction of the discussion. For an in-depth look at the insights shared during the conference, visit the official Meininger website: Meininger Wine Conference 2025. (Additionally, do not miss the exciting announcement of the Meininger Awards 2025, which was unveiled on the same day – explore all the details here: Meininger Awards 2025.

The conference concluded not with grand statements, but with actionable insights – embodying Meininger’s legacy as a leading industry voice, committed to high journalistic standards, objectivity, and staying ahead of the curve. They don’t just report on the industry but help chart its course.

Attendees left with a clear mandate: the future belongs to those willing to rethink everything, from how wine is packaged to who it’s for.

In the end, Meininger’s 2025 conference was more than just a gathering – it was a mirror held up to an industry in transition. The meticulously curated program didn’t merely diagnose challenges but offered actionable solutions, from engaging Gen Z to protecting margins. With its perfect blend of German precision and a global perspective, the event provided something rare: an equal mix of sobering reality and an inspiring roadmap forward. The takeaway was clear – the wine industry’s vulnerabilities are matched only by its extraordinary capacity for reinvention, and those who act on these insights will shape its next chapter.

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The morning light filtering through Hotel Kö59’s grand windows illuminated a wine industry at a crossroads as over 100 global wine executives gathered for the third annual Meininger’s Wine Conference on March 15. Sponsored by ProWein with Wine Travel Awards and Communication Media Group Drinks+ as official informational partners, this year’s discussions confronted the central question, “How […]

From April 8 to 11, 2025, the leading food and hospitality exhibition in Asia – FHA-Food & Beverage – will be held at Singapore Expo, where the ProWine Singapore stand will be presented.

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This week, leading food and beverage manufacturers and emerging brands gathered in one place. FHA-Food & Beverage is the largest showcase of popular products and solutions for food and beverage; hospitality; advanced technologies for food and beverage production, and more.

This mega event will feature a ProWine Singapore stand, hosting tastings that showcase the synergy between exquisite culinary offerings and exceptional wines.

The next ProWine Singapore is scheduled for April 21-24, 2026, but today at the stand you can discover new trends, chat with industry leaders and learn how this exhibition can boost your business in the wine and spirits sector.

ProWine Singapore organizers call the event “the gateway to the dynamic wine and spirits market in the Asia-Pacific region.” The largest exhibition of its kind in Southeast Asia, jointly organized by Informa Markets and Messe Düsseldorf Asia, will present a wide range of products from around the world next April; the latest trends and technologies in viticulture; premium wines and spirits that meet the highest standards, plus many unique workshops and seminars from industry speakers.

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From April 8 to 11, 2025, the leading food and hospitality exhibition in Asia – FHA-Food & Beverage – will be held at Singapore Expo, where the ProWine Singapore stand will be presented. This week, leading food and beverage manufacturers and emerging brands gathered in one place. FHA-Food & Beverage is the largest showcase of […]

On April 1st, an essential phase of Wine Travel Award 2024–2025 – the public voting stage – concluded. We are thrilled to announce the winners and extend our congratulations to all participants! The next phase of our journey is the selection of the winners by our esteemed panel of judges, distinguished professionals in the wine and wine tourism industry. However, it is important to reiterate that in our community, prizes and diplomas are not the primary focus. What truly matters is participation and building connections.

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As you peruse our community gathered this year, you will notice several exciting developments. The geographic scope has expanded – the project now unites 44 countries, with the WTA’s fourth edition welcoming nominees from nations such as Mexico, Thailand, and Cuba, alongside a notable surge in participants from the USA – including the stellar wineries of California.

Moreover, we are delighted to highlight the arrival of unique newcomers to our community, such as Wines of the Silver Land – an association of winemakers from western Ukraine, a country enduring military aggression. And symbolically, Wines of the Silver Land emerged as the winner of the public vote! Of course, this small region is still far from the renown of the world’s leading wine-producing areas, but this victory speaks to the immense support Ukrainians have received from the global community – including winemakers across the planet.

Notably, this year has also seen the emergence of waterborne wine routes on the world’s wine tourism map, pioneered by Expedia Cruises, the foremost innovator in wine-themed cruise tours. Despite the challenges facing the industry, wine tourism continues to expand – and we are thrilled to be part of this vibrant and diverse world!

This is precisely the vision we had for the WTA community – a diverse assembly of individuals and brands capable of making a positive impact on the world.

Take this opportunity to explore the distinguished nominees – each already a victor in their own right, having been selected and embraced by wine lovers, industry experts, and devoted supporters.

Their inclusion is a testament to their excellence and the confidence placed in them by the global wine community:

1. Ambassador

Ambassador of the Year

#194 – 580 votes – Micaela Fonseca

#86 –  425 votes – Solomiia Begun

#153 – 286 votes –  Tomasz Witkowski

#160 – 176 votes –  Florence Authier Meuric

#73 – 174 votes –  Chien Hao Chen

Creative Strategy

#170 – 1234 votes – Oleksandra Minenko-Decamps

#136 – 624 votes – Országos Bortúra

#77 – 137 votes – Deschidem Vinul Romanesc

#76 – 135 votes – The Imeretian Wine Association

#205 – 471 votes – Olimpia Pleșa Brandhuber

2. Education in Enotourism

Cultural mission

#21 – 2045 votes – The Shumi Winery

#24 – 298 votes – World of Wine (WOW)

#130 – 243 votes – IWINETC

#22 – 227 votes – The Cité des Climats et Vins de Bourgogne

#23 – 213 votes – Vivanco Museum

Unique Program

#180 – 334 votes – GRANDE PASSIONE di JC Viens

#184 – 277 votes – Fongyee Walker

#20 – 224 votes – The Wine School. World of Wine (WOW)

#16 – 144 votes – Kovach Sommelier School

#18 – 140 votes – Kabistoni Wine School

3. Enogastronomic Events

Event of the Year

#66 – 616 votes – Charitable Gastro Dinners

#67 – 300 votes – Yerevan Gastronomic Days

#191 – 281 votes – Balkans International Wine Competition

#89 – 269 votes – London Wine Fair

#70 – 258 votes – “VinOPERA” Castel Mimi

Magnet of the Region

#84 – 2037 votes – The Shumi Winery

#200 – 694 votes – Essência do Vinho

#188 – 507 votes – BAROMETER International Bar Show

#61 – 389 votes – Yerevan Wine Days

#65 – 347 votes –  VieVinum

4. The Visiting Card of the Country

Art&History Object

#197 – 2222 votes – Adega Mayor

#41 – 1983 votes – The Shumi Winery

#81 –  245 votes – Angelus

#120 – 210 votes – Casa Gancia

#146 – 198 votes – Tenute SalvaTerra

Brand – the Visiting Card of the Country

#31 – 2107 votes – The Shumi Winery

#203 – 315 votes – Tenuta Santa Maria (Villa Mosconi Bertani)

#173 – 255 votes – Chateau Montelena

#169 – 250 votes – Nico Lazaridi Wines

#171 – 249 votes – Robert Mondavi Winery

Must Visit

#62 –  2042 votes – The Shumi Winery

#85  – 1312 votes – Monsoon Valley Vineyard

#90  – 504 votes – Shaloshvili Cellar&Hotel

#154  – 244 votes – FASOLI GINO Winery

#202  – 178 votes – Domaine Vino Formosa

 

Progressive Approach

#36 – 2020 votes – The Shumi Winery

#39 – 365 votes – Ijevan Wine-Brandy Factory

#109 – 311 votes – Azienda Agricola San Salvatore 1988

#37 – 276 votes – Tenuta Manoylo

#38 – 233 votes – Castle Bethlen-Haller

Region of the Year

#181 – 681 votes – Wines of the Silver Land

#189 – 370 votes – South Moravia

#176 – 301 votes – California Wines

#206 – 251 votes – South Africa

#50 – 245 votes – Piemont

5. Wine Guide

Top Guide

#511 – 505 votes – Miguel Leal

#172 – 1274 votes – Oleksandra Minenko-Decamps

#54 – 419 votes – Einat Klein

#193 – 357 votes – Olena Cherkashyna

#183 – 258 votes – Fongyee Walker

Travel Operator of the Year

#95 – 1040 votes – ML-Private Tours wine experiences

#201 – 341 votes – Expedia Cruises

#57 – 252 votes – WildChina Travel

#58 – 183 votes – BKWine Tours

#59 – 156 votes – SweetEasy Wine Tours

6. Wine&Food Influencer

Author of the Year

#137 – 518 votes – Corné van Nijhuis

#87 – 320 votes – Solomiia Begun

#139 – 311 votes – Andrei Cibotaru

#5 – 171 votes – Sigala Marianna

#2 – 125 votes – Wine.Pop

Expert Opinion

#174 – 1193 votes – Janina Doyle

#7 – 1105 votes – Teresa Colaço do Rosário

#151 – 1075 votes – Chan Jun Park

#91 – 1003 votes – Anne-Wies van Oosten

#94 – 535 votes – Tomasz Prange-Barczyński

The Brightest Journey

#92 – 867 votes – Anne-Wies van Oosten

#204 – 832 votes – Locoporvino – André & Karla

#13 – 482 votes – Elizabeth Smith

#131 – 207 votes – Allison Levine 

#15 – 203 votes – Gwendolyn Alley

 

The top five nominees from each category advance to the professional jury round, where their profiles will be evaluated by twelve leading industry experts in winemaking, gastronomic tourism, marketing, and journalism. Judging follows a 10-point scoring system in accordance with the official Wine Travel Awards (WTA) protocols.

The WTA winners will be unveiled at the WTA Ceremony, the event’s grand finale, held during the London Wine Fair on May 20, 2025, from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM.

The Wine Travel Awards Ceremony will highlight the results of the 2024 – 2025 campaign, where the winners of both public voting and professional jury selection will be appraised to that moment and new and prosperous names in the wine tourism business will be revealed.

The 2-hour program agenda includes:

• An announcement of the winners and WTA discoveries
• A walk-around tasting of wines from WTA community members

We invite sponsors and partners to be part of this prestigious event, celebrating the achievements of the Wine Travel Awards nominees. For partnership inquiries, please contact: partnership@winetravelawards.com

 

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On April 1st, an essential phase of Wine Travel Award 2024–2025 – the public voting stage – concluded. We are thrilled to announce the winners and extend our congratulations to all participants! The next phase of our journey is the selection of the winners by our esteemed panel of judges, distinguished professionals in the wine and […]

ProWein 2025 showcased innovations and fresh approaches in the ever-evolving wine and spirits industry, addressing both global and regional challenges. For today’s winemakers and all those involved in the wine industry value chain, adapting to shifting consumer preferences and embracing sustainable practices is more crucial than ever.

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On March 16, the Wine Travel Awards (WTA), in collaboration with Drinks+ Media Group, hosted an insightful session at ProWein 2025: “Introducing the Wine Consumer of the Future.” This engaging discussion offered forward-thinking perspectives on the future of wine tourism, highlighting how evolving consumer trends are reshaping the industry.

The session took place at the ProWein Business Forum – a  pioneering addition to ProWein 2025, designed as a dynamic platform for innovation and thought leadership. This Illustrious forum united leading industry experts, media representatives, and wine enthusiasts to explore the key trends and challenges which influence the future of the global wine tourism market.

Shaping the Future of Wine Tourism: Engaging the Next Generation of Consumers

Panel Overview

The panel was hosted by Veronika Busel, Head of Operations of the Wine Travel Awards (WTA) and Communication Media Group Drinks+, whose background includes over a decade in international wine marketing and wine tourism.

This year, through the joint efforts of WTA and ProWein, the event achieved a remarkable milestone: attracting top industry voices to provide attendees with practical insights, innovative ideas, and actionable inspiration to advance their businesses.

Speakers’ Profiles

The discussion featured two pivotal speakers, symbolizing the synergy between academic expertise and hands-on business leadership:

º Professor Dr. Gergely Szolnoki (Geisenheim University)

• • A preeminent academic in wine tourism and consumer behavior, his research focuses on evolving wine consumer demographics and strategies to engage new markets.
  • Recently appointed President of the OIV’s Expert Group on Economic Analysis, Markets, and Consumption (ECOMAR), where he leads a team developing a sustainable wine tourism framework.
  • Delegated expert to the Great Wine Capitals and a founding figure in the WTA, serving as both a global judge for wine tourism awards and a consultant to the organization.
  • Shared data-driven insights to outline the theoretical future of wine tourism.

º Adrian Bridge (CEO of The Fladgate Partnership & Managing Director of The Porto Protocol)

• • Heads one of Portugal’s most renowned wine groups, celebrated for its historic legacy and innovation.
  • A pioneer in transformative wine tourism, best known for World of Wine (WOW) in Porto – a WTA award-winning project (recognized in the Education in Enotourism category by WTA) with the WOW Wine School earning a Special Judges’ Choice Award under Nina Basset’s leadership.
  • Represented the practical business perspective, detailing how to integrate large-scale tourism with traditional wine models sustainably.
  • Creating World of Wine (WOW) in Porto – a WTA award-winning project Represented the practical business perspective, detailing how to integrate large-scale tourism with traditional wine models sustainably.

Essential Insights on the Future of Sustainable Wine Tourism

Professor Dr. Szolnoki opened with a compelling exploration of evolving wine tourism trends, drawing from his deep expertise in consumer behavior and market dynamics. His presentation revealed how wineries – whether boutique estates or sprawling vineyards – can adapt to shifting visitor expectations, ensuring they captivate the next generation of wine enthusiasts.

1. Beyond the Glass: Diversification as a Growth Engine

To captivate a broader audience, wineries must move past standard tastings and embrace a more immersive vision. Integrating local cuisine, hands-on winemaker interactions, and outdoor adventures transforms the experience – appealing not only to oenophiles but also to explorers seeking unique escapades. By pairing wine with sports, wellness, or art, estates can widen their allure, turning casual visitors into devoted guests. The key lies in offering more than just wine; it’s about crafting moments that resonate with both connoisseurs and curious adventurers alike.

2. Sustainability as a Cornerstone & Local Authenticity

Eco-conscious practices – environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and economic resilience – are now non-negotiable. Wineries that embrace sustainability earn trust while standing out in a crowded market. Meanwhile, leveraging regional charm (especially when international travel dips) ensures a unique, place-rooted experience.

3. Active Enotourism: Where Wine Meets Adventure

Today’s travelers seek hybrid experiences – hiking through vineyards, caravan stays, cycling wine trails, or even marathon events. These wellness-infused adventures appeal to active tourists who want to stay fit while embracing an exploratory, health-conscious, and nature-driven lifestyle – all while enjoying wine.

4. Digital Bridges & Tech-Enhanced Storytelling

Virtual tastings, augmented reality tours, and immersive apps allow wineries to engage global audiences remotely, planting the seeds for future visits. Meanwhile, VR and digital education tools deepen engagement, making wine culture accessible to all.

5. Seamless Accessibility & Family-Friendly Appeal

Removing barriers – better transit, RV-friendly routes, and streamlined logistics – encourages more visitors. And for families? Playgrounds, grape-juice tastings, and interactive tours transform wineries into destinations for all ages.

The Bigger Picture: Wine Tourism as an Emotional Journey

Speaking to the audience, Prof. Dr. Szolnoki underscored that contemporary wine tourism transcends mere bottle sales – it is an art of storytelling, where visitors crave a deeper bond with the land, its heritage, and its people. He posed a pivotal question for the modern wine industry: What truly defines our offering? Beyond the wine itself, it is the allure of experience, the resonance of emotion, and the richness of culture. Wineries that master this alchemy do not merely draw visitors; they inspire devoted ambassadors. In this, he affirmed, lies the essence – and the enduring profitability – of wine tourism.

Travelers, Not Tourists: Redefining the Wine Experience

Adrian Bridge, drawing from his experience leading The World of Wine – one of the most dynamic wine tourism projects globally – positioned wine tourism not merely as a tasting experience but as a powerful economic engine capable of reshaping winery business models. He highlighted its potential to unlock new pricing strategies, diversify revenue streams, and enhance financial stability. More than just an attraction, wine tourism, when executed professionally, transforms visitors into brand ambassadors, fostering long-term consumer loyalty.

Bridge’s vision reframes wine tourism as a strategic imperative rather than an add-on. Wineries must innovate beyond tastings, embed sustainability, and bridge the urban-rural divide. As he put it: “The future belongs to those who see tourism not as a side activity, but as the heartbeat of their brand.”

One of the most compelling aspects of his presentation was the idea of urban access to wine tourism. Bridge advocated for connecting city centers with vineyard experiences, making wine tourism more accessible to a larger audience. By closing the gap between urban environments and traditional wine regions, wineries can attract visitors who might not otherwise embark on a dedicated wine trip.

Consumer engagement was another critical theme. Bridge argued that wine tourism should be immersive, weaving the brand’s identity, culture, and values into the experience. He noted that meaningful engagement turns visitors into loyal customers, ultimately benefiting wineries. Echoing Dr. Szolnoki, Mr. Bridge agreed that wine tourism is about attracting new consumers but pushed back against oversimplified strategies: “Many wine companies think that wine tourism is purely the extension of what is happening at ProWein – you got wines on a table, you got a tasting, you are done. That’s not how it works.” He emphasized that successful wine tourism requires a deeper, more immersive approach, integrating storytelling, hospitality, and a clear strategic vision.

Bridge also addressed the evolving nature of consumer experience, offering his own perspective on tourism: “I’d challenge the term ‘tourists.’ To me, tourists are those who visit places simply to take from them. I prefer to talk about travelers – people who seek new experiences, explore, and engage with different cultures and destinations. This group is especially valuable because travelers become the best ambassadors. It really makes you think about what kind of experience you need to offer them.”

His insights painted a comprehensive picture of the changing role of wine tourism. From economic impact to branding, sustainability, and accessibility, he demonstrated that wine tourism is not just an ancillary activity but a transformative force in the wine industry. His perspective challenges wineries to rethink their approach, leveraging wine tourism as a tool for long-term growth and consumer engagement.

In the Vision Advised by Both Speakers: Contemporary Wine Tourism’s Key Principles

• Be Memorable: stand out from the competition with a unique experience that people will remember.
• Align with Your Brand: ensure the experience reflects your winery’s values and identity.
• Be Innovative and Inclusive: offer options that cater to all guests, including families.
• Create Authenticity: provide a genuine and immersive experience that connects guests to your winery’s story.
• Focus on Guest Needs: consider the interests and preferences of your visitors to deliver a personalized experience.

Debate and Networking

The session wrapped up with a lively Q&A, giving the audience a chance to engage directly with the speakers, exchange ideas, and discuss potential collaborations. With over 50 attendees, the WTA event drew strong interest, and many took the opportunity to continue conversations with the experts long after the discussion ended.

Veronika Busel on WTA’s and ProWein’s Role in Transforming Wine Tourism Through Strategic Dialogue

I truly believe organizing this important discussion was a significant achievement – attracting professionals of this caliber who were willing to share genuine insights. This year, the WTA was responsible for organizing two events in collaboration with ProWein, and I’m confident we achieved our most important milestones: engaging a highly motivated audience (the auditorium was filled with industry professionals), sharing our vision on the key drivers of sustainable wine tourism, and improving our collective understanding of evolving consumer preferences in a changing global wine market.

The audience engagement exceeded our expectations. During the dedicated Q&A session, we received so many thoughtful questions that our entire panel was not only pleased but also surprised by the depth of perspectives shared. By the end, it wasn’t just three panelists speaking – it was a room full of professionals passionately debating the future of sustainable wine tourism!

Beyond the formal discussion, the energy continued even after the talk concluded, with conversations lasting an additional 25 minutes. We succeeded in creating a platform for meaningful dialogue, blending great content with a relaxed, approachable atmosphere that resonated with everyone in attendance. Most importantly, we had a great time – the team spirit on stage and the audience’s enthusiasm made it a truly memorable experience.

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ProWein 2025 showcased innovations and fresh approaches in the ever-evolving wine and spirits industry, addressing both global and regional challenges. For today’s winemakers and all those involved in the wine industry value chain, adapting to shifting consumer preferences and embracing sustainable practices is more crucial than ever. On March 16, the Wine Travel Awards (WTA), […]

ProWein 2025, held from March 16 to18 in the German Düsseldorf, made a bold statement about innovation, fresh ideas, and staying ahead in tough times for the global wine and spirits industry, which is currently facing shrinking international sales and rising trade barriers. The fair wasn’t just about showcasing products  — it was about exploring future opportunities, focusing on new trends, and sealing plenty of business deals.

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A global meeting point

Around 4,200 exhibitors from 65 countries filled eleven exhibition halls with wines and spirits from all the key regions, including top industry players. Despite the challenging market, the energy was high, the professional level of participants and visitors, as well as organisational quality, were top-notch, and ProWein once again proved to be the place where the global wine world connects and does business. It is worth noting some changes in the organization: the pavilion layout has become more compact, and navigation more convenient for both exhibitors and visitors, wine connecting people.

Big business, big players

Around 42,000 industry professionals from 128 countries came to Düsseldorf to catch up on the latest trends, connect with key exhibitors, and lock in valuable deals. Nearly half of the top buyers — spanning food retail, specialty and online shops, as well as the hospitality sector — came from Germany, one of the world’s biggest import markets. But ProWein’s reach goes far beyond: it also draws high-level decision-makers from major European regions like Benelux, the UK, and the Nordic countries, as well as heavy-hitters from the USA, Japan, South Korea, and China.

While there was strong interest in German wines, the diverse global selection also grabbed attention. The verdict? According to the organizers, 94% of attendees rated their ProWein experience as a success — proof that it’s still the must-visit spot for serious wine and spirits business.

For Barbara Wanner, the co-founder of Organize Communications, one of Germany’s most successful wine marketing agency, it was the 30th ProWein: “This year we saw fewer trade visitors at some stands, but most exhibitors were pretty busy. Our surveys at the stands of our clients — Wines of Portugal, Wines of California, Cantina Terlan/Andrian, Vietti, Markgräfler Winzer and others — were mainly positive. It is clear that those who prepared well were able to make enough good contacts. We were particularly pleased with the good response to all our masterclasses and events. They were all well attended, no sign of a lull”.

“Particular highlights this year were the new sessions at the Wines of California booth and the new set-up of the Wines of Portugal in Hall 9, as well as master-classes for Wines of Greece, for which we received a lot of positive feedback,” sums up Ms Wanner.

I asked Barbara to share her vision and recommendations regarding the “homework” that participants should do, to be efficient at ProWein, or, for that matter, any international wine fair: “Simply going to a trade show has never been particularly efficient. It is especially important to take an analytical rather than an emotional approach to selecting a trade show and to make decisions based on facts. Everyone should ask themselves questions such as: which markets have potential or relevance for me? At which trade shows can the financial and time commitment be converted into sales? Where can I meet existing customers? Where is there realistic potential for new customers?” 

Mrs Wanner is sure that simply doing what others do has never been the best choice. She believes it is extremely important to see the trade fair as an important point of communication and to use it as such: “How do I prepare for a trade fair professionally? How do I approach customers or potential new customers? Do I want to meet journalists, and if so, how do I organize that? What do I have to talk about at the trade fair? Is my team prepared for these topics? And, of course, how efficiently and quickly can I follow up? Without these points, you can wait a long time for visitors, and I am also firmly convinced that you cannot expect a trade fair to do all this work for you”. 

Insights, Innovation, and the future of wine

ProWein 2025 kicked off with Meininger’s Wine Conference, setting the tone for an eventful educational and tasting program. The newly introduced ProWein Business Forum was a key highlight, with industry leaders discussing sustainability, digitalization, and the future of wine consumption. Over three days of the fair, experts shared practical strategies for navigating the evolving wine and spirits market. 

Thomas Brandl, the CMB’s Ambassador for Eastern and Central Europe, was very impressed by the level of organisation and attendance of ProWein’s educational events: “My masterclasses with Armenia and North Macedonia worked extremely well – underlining the growing interest for wines from the “unknown” Southeastern European countries. The Armenian event was overbooked! I’ve been marketing the country for two years, and I am very satisfied by the growing awareness of Armenia as a winemaking country. The master class for North Macedonia was almost full too. Organisation and support for educational events and tastings by Messe Duesseldorf could not have been better!”

Wine Travel Awards and Drinks+ hosted two successful events during ProWein 2025, one on the opening day and another on the closing day. On March 16, WTA, in collaboration with Drinks+ Media Group, presented a panel discussion on “Sustainable Wine Tourism.” The session delved into cutting-edge research and practical insights into the changing demographics of wine tourism and global wine consumers. The panel was moderated by Veronika Busel, Managing Partner for WTA, and featured Prof. Dr. Gergely Szolnoki from Geisenheim University and Adrian Bridge, Managing Director of The Fladgate Partnership and The Porto Protocol, who has significantly influenced the evolution of the Port industry. The discussion engaged a highly interested audience and prompted many questions for the distinguished speakers.

The second WTA / Drinks+ event, presentation “Paradoxes of Ukraine: Winemaking and Tourism in Wartime,” followed by a tasting of six wines made from Telti Kuruk, Sukholymansky, and Odesa Black, was also a great success, attracting nearly 50 attendees. This presentation was hosted by Natalia Burlachenko, CEO BIG WINES, and supported by Vinos de La Luz and its founder, Dr. Ricardo Núñez, an investor, mecenate and committed advocate of Ukrainian winemaking.

Wines of Ukraine shine at ProWein

The national booth for Wines of Ukraine showcased 12 wine and spirit producers from all around Ukraine. Visitors gave very positive feedback to the fine quality of Ukrainian wines featuring significant local varieties — Telti Kuruk, Sukholymansky, Odesa Black, as well as still and sparkling wines made from international grape varieties. Unique and authentic spirits by Honey Badger, a producer based in Kyiv region, caused tremendous interest.

Ukrainian exhibitors reported they were happy with the growing understanding of Ukrainian wines among professionals, as well as with the efficiency of business contacts at ProWein 2025. 

“We are witnessing a positive shift in how buyers and the media view Ukrainian winemaking,” says Svitlana Tsybak, CEO of Beykush Winery and ambassador for Wines of Ukraine. “Ukrainians are no longer seen simply as victims of Russian aggression; our wines are now recognized for their quality, diversity, and character. Despite Ukraine’s long winemaking history, we are considered to be a bold, emerging wine region, and we are proud of that.”

The diverse world of wines

The international representation of exhibitors at ProWein 2025 was as impressive as ever, introducing new wine regions and expanding the presence of the ever-successful headliners, such as Wines of Portugal, whose stand actually seemed to occupy half of the pavilion, offering multiple master-classes and tastings hosted by renowned speakers.

The national booths for Wines of Georgia and Wines of Macedonia were also big and busy, featuring a large number of participants and high-quality wines. 

As a matter of fact, I was surprised to discover the amazing wines by Tikveš Winery from Macedonia, which, apart from participating in the national stand, had a booth of their own. I was totally enchanted by elegant, sophisticated and powerful wines originating from the winery’s unique terroirs — Barovo valley, Bela Voda and Lepovo.

Wines of Turkey showcased 8 wineries at their national booth this year, including two of my long-term favourites, Paşaeli and Suvla. Turkish wines were also presented in two master-classes hosted by Caro Maurer MW and Wojciech Bońkowski MW, telling the story of unique indigenous grape varieties — Emir, Narince, Kalecik Karasi — which capture the soul of this ancient land and its timeless flavours.

The Austrian Wine booth looked professional and elegant — exactly as it should, showcasing the refined Austrian wines.

As always, it was a warm and pleasant meeting with Chris Yorke, CEO of Austrian Wine, and the party at the booth, where he also invited Ukrainian winemakers and members of the Wines of Ukraine team, was incredibly fun and lively.

Zero Alcohol, Zero Delight? The Mixed Reality of No/Low Wines

The low and zero-alcohol wine market is expanding rapidly, with both consumer demand and industry investment signaling a lasting shift toward these alternatives. This category is poised for further innovation and an increasing variety of products in the coming years. ProWein continues to lead in the no/low alcohol sector. With 40 international exhibitors and a curated tasting ZERO-zone by MUNDUS VINI, the event showcased this rapidly growing category.

However, despite the buzz, the quality of most No/Low wines remains underwhelming. The offerings at the ProWein ZERO zone were, for the most part, a bitter-sweet-sour disappointment for me and many other tasters.

All in all, exhibitors from 12 countries participated in ProWein ZERO, showcasing a diverse range of non-alcoholic alternatives to conventional wines. The best performers, in my opinion, were zero-alcohol sparkling wines, particularly from well-known producers such as Codorníu, Freixenet, and Rotkäppchen, as well as smaller players like Weingut Julius Zotz and Manufaktur Jörg Geiger.

Among the most notable exhibitors in the No/Low segment were:

• BIBO Runge (Germany): known for their innovative approach, BIBO Runge presented their ‘REVOLUZZER’ wines from the Rheingau region.
• Carl Jung GmbH Weinkellerei (Germany): A pioneer in the non-alcoholic wine sector, Carl Jung showcased a broad selection of de-alcoholized wines.
• Edenvale Beverages Pty Ltd (Australia): Edenvale highlighted their premium alcohol-removed wines, promising the same taste, aroma, and complexity as their traditional counterparts.
• Oddbird (Sweden): presented by the Schlumberger Group, Oddbird is Scandinavia’s leading non-alcoholic wine brand, known for its high-quality, de-alcoholized wines.
• Cognato (Sweden): sourcing grapes from South Africa, Cognato offers a range of non-alcoholic wines — including white, rosé, and sparkling varieties — crafted with a focus on quality and distinction.

These exhibitors represent the industry’s ongoing commitment to elevating the No/Low category. Yet, while the market is growing, one question remains: can zero-alcohol wines ever deliver the sensory satisfaction that wine lovers crave? Only time — and taste — will tell.

ProWein vs. Wine Paris: leading the global wine trade

How well does ProWein maintain its leadership compared to other international wine events, particularly Wine Paris?

Thomas Brandl shares his impressions: “Even though ProWein has seen a decline in exhibitors and visitors’ numbers, it still remains the most important and most international wine and spirits trade fair in the world. Although, in the rivalry between ProWein and Wine Paris the momentum currently seems to be on the French side, business is made in Düsseldorf. I spoke with many participants who did both shows, and they told me that they had much more international leads in Düsseldorf than in Paris six weeks ago.” 

According to Mr. Brandl’s estimation, around 70 percent of the exhibitors of Wine Paris 2025 were French, even though the organizers made huge efforts to internationalise their show and engage many international buyers there. “The diversity of exhibitors is much bigger in Düsseldorf, which makes more sense for international business”, he sums it up. “Yet in terms of logistics and accommodation Düsseldorf was beaten completely by Paris. In my opinion, Messe Düsseldorf did not make a serious effort in negotiations with the local hoteliers to bring down their outrageous room rates to a more or less acceptable level,” says Thomas Brandl, disappointed. “Prices are way too high. In the 15 times bigger French capital it doesn’t make a difference if there’s a trade show going on or not. In Duesseldorf the insatiable hoteliers are damaging the image of their local Messe!

Barbara Wanner, whose agency officially represents Wine Paris and has been handling communications for their clients at ProWein for many years, considers these two events the most important wine trade fairs in Europe with a truly international reach: “London Wine Trade Fair is quite important from a local perspective, but in terms of visitor numbers, it is no competition. Vinitaly is a large wine fair, but it is not really an international fair, as it is primarily focused on Italy. Then, of course, there are many emerging country-specific fairs, such as the Barcelona Wine Week, as well as local fairs with smaller and more regional approaches. However, for international business ProWein is unbeatable, at least for now.”

To sum it up, despite the fierce competition, ProWein continues to reign as the biggest and most significant international event in the wine and spirits industry. With such a powerhouse reputation, it would be easy to rest on its laurels — but ProWein refuses to do that. I want to thank the organizers for their dynamic approach, constant openness to innovation, trendwatching, and trendsetting, and for delivering unforgettable experiences and reliable business connections year after year. Until next time, ProWein! Bis bald!

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Photo credits: Messe Düsseldorf / ctillmann, Wines of Ukraine, Wines of Türkiye, Wines of Portugal, ENTERPRISE GREECE, Thomas Brandl, Organize Communications

ProWein 2025, held from March 16 to18 in the German Düsseldorf, made a bold statement about innovation, fresh ideas, and staying ahead in tough times for the global wine and spirits industry, which is currently facing shrinking international sales and rising trade barriers. The fair wasn’t just about showcasing products  — it was about exploring […]

On the final day of ProWein 2025 — the world’s largest international wine and spirits exhibition — a tasting and educational event served as a fitting conclusion to the ProWein Business Forum’s masterclass series. Wine Travel Awards, Vinos de La Luz, and Ukrainian winemakers (WTA nominees) showcased Ukraine’s wine regions and indigenous grape varieties, offering tastings of wines made from three iconic Ukrainian grapes: Telti Kuruk, Sukholymansky, and Odesa Black.

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This event, organized by Drinks+ Media Group and Wine Travel Awards, was made possible with the support of the international winemaking company Vinos de La Luz and its founder, Dr. Ricardo Núñez. As a long-standing patron, investor, and partner of Drinks+, Dr. Núñez has continuously supported the development of the Ukrainian wine industry for many years.

The presentation and tasting titled “Paradoxes of Ukraine: Winemaking and Tourism in Wartime” brought together approximately 50 guests, including new faces and long-time friends of Drinks+ and Ukrainian wine enthusiasts. Dr. Ricardo Núñez shared the success story of BIG WINES, a winery that is part of Vinos de La Luz, emphasizing his commitment to sustaining investments and business growth despite the ongoing Russian aggression in Ukraine. 

BIG WINES winery is located near Kyiv, their own vineyards are located in Odesa region. The winery produces both aged and young red and white wines — still and sparkling — focusing on indigenous and local grape varieties such as Odesa Black and Telti Kuruk. Recently, BIG WINES acquired 46 Parallel Wine Group, a successful producer of fine wines from classic international varieties, also based in Odesa region and renowned for its sparkling wines crafted using the traditional method.

Originally, BIG WINES planned to focus solely on producing high-quality wines. However, recognizing the growing demand for wine tourism, the owners decided to expand their vision. This led to a strategic shift in the project to include welcoming spaces for winery visits, tastings, and events, enhancing the overall guest experience.

Natalia Burlachenko, CEO of BIG WINES, provided insights into the history of Ukrainian winemaking, its wine regions, and grape varieties, focusing on the three showcased varieties. Further on, Natalia presented wines from 46 Parallel Wine Group and BIG WINES. 

The tasting also featured nominees of the Wine Travel Awards — Beykush Winery from Mykolaiv region, as well as Villa Tinta and Kolonist Wineries from the Danube Bessarabia. Beykush, Kolonist, and Villa Tinta are true gems of wine tourism in southern Ukraine. Notably, Villa Tinta and Kolonist are part of the Ukrainian Bessarabia’s Wine and Taste Route, which previously won the Wine Travel Awards in the Region of the Year category.

Despite the challenges of war, Beykush, Kolonist, and Villa Tinta continue to welcome visitors, albeit in limited numbers and by prior arrangement only. During the ProWein tasting, Alla Plachkova, co-owner of Kolonist, and Kostiantyn Tintulov, co-owner of Villa Tinta, gave a vibrant presentation of their wines and shared insights into the challenges Ukrainian winemakers face during wartime.

The tasting lineup included the following wines:

• Welcome Drink: Grand Admiral Brut Nature 2018 from 46 Parallel Wine Group (Gold Medal, MUNDUS VINI Spring Tasting 2025). This elegant sparkling wine, crafted using the traditional method and aged on lees for 49 months, set a sophisticated tone for the event.
• Telti Kuruk 2023 (Beykush Winery): A fresh and vibrant wine from Mykolaiv region, featuring aromas of citrus, fresh herbs, quince, and acacia, with a light mineral finish and crisp acidity.
• Telti Kuruk 2023 (BIG WINES): Aged in oak for six months, this version offered a delicate floral-honey bouquet with notes of white fruits, dried herbs, and stone fruit, balanced by refreshing acidity.
• Kolonist Sukholymansky 2024: A distinctive example of this unique local grape, showcasing aromas of fresh apples, wild herbs, sweet pears, and exotic fruits. This full-bodied wine featured a noticeable acidity and a mineral-driven finish.

The red wine segment included:

• Villa Tinta Premium Collection Odesa Black 2022 (Gold Medal, MUNDUS VINI Spring Tasting 2025): Made from Ukraine’s flagship Odesa Black grape and aged in stainless steel, this wine boasted intense color, lively tannins, and aromas of dark fruits, blackberries, blueberries, mint, black pepper, and spices, with a hint of plum jam.
• Big Art Odesa Black Ivan Marchuk Limited Edition 2022 (Grand Gold and Best of Show Ukraine, MUNDUS VINI Spring Tasting 2025): Aged in oak for 12 months, this complex and elegant wine featured rich aromas of blackberries, blueberries, black pepper, chocolate, and violets, delivering both intensity and finesse.

The presentation’s dynamic atmosphere and the outstanding quality of the wines left a lasting impression on the attendees. Many guests stayed afterward to engage with the winemakers and share their compliments and feedback. Natalia Burlachenko commented: “Events of this scale provide an excellent opportunity for Ukrainian winemaking to make a statement on a major international business and networking platform, which ProWein has been for many years. Our goal is to highlight the unique character of Ukrainian wines and to demonstrate that even in these challenging times, our winemakers continue to craft wines of exceptional quality. BIG WINES, 46 Parallel Wine Group and Vinos de la Luz are dedicated to promoting Ukrainian winemaking both nationally and internationally, and we will continue doing our best to support our colleagues and to develop the brand of Ukrainian wine”.

This event marks another milestone in promoting Ukrainian winemaking and positioning Ukraine as a serious contender on the international wine scene. Drinks+ Media Group extends its gratitude to Vinos de La Luz for their partnership and support in organizing this event and to ProWein for their impeccable coordination and professionalism.

With pride in Ukrainian winemakers, the Drinks+ team remains committed to fostering the global reputation of Ukraine as a producer of exceptional wines.

See you at the next big international wine event!

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On the final day of ProWein 2025 — the world’s largest international wine and spirits exhibition — a tasting and educational event served as a fitting conclusion to the ProWein Business Forum’s masterclass series. Wine Travel Awards, Vinos de La Luz, and Ukrainian winemakers (WTA nominees) showcased Ukraine’s wine regions and indigenous grape varieties, offering […]