Gastronomy and Wine Portal

Throughout its 20-year journey, Askaneli has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from a humble family enterprise into a thriving and triumphant wine trading company in Georgia.

As we raise our glasses to toast the finest offerings from the world of wine, there’s one name that has stood out magnificently amidst the sea of contenders and managed to win hearts on the international stage – Askaneli Winery & Distillery, a WTA nominee and public voting winner in The Visiting Card of the Country/Progressive Approach category and The Visiting Card of the Country/Brand – the visiting card of the country – Gocha’s Collection – Askaneli Winery & Distillery.

Throughout its 20-year journey, Askaneli has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from a humble family enterprise into a thriving and triumphant wine trading company in Georgia. Presently, AWD stands tall with three robust factories strategically located across various regions of the country. This June has proven to be particularly momentous for the Georgian winery, as it embarked on a journey filled with achievements that strengthened its presence on the global wine market.

Starting the eventful month, Askaneli participated as a guest at the 15th International Wine and Spirits Exhibition held between June 2nd and 4th. Adding further to its impressive run, Askaneli was featured at the Merano Wine Festival Georgia 2023 on June 11th, showcasing its premium wines and connecting with industry experts and wine enthusiasts alike.

However, the pinnacle of Askaneli’s triumphs was at the Seoul International Wines and Spirits Expo 2023 from June 22nd to 24th – an exhibition that takes place in South Korea since 1992 and attracts more than 35 000 visitors annually. There, Askaneli had the opportunity to introduce the world to the vibrant and captivating wine traditions and cultural heritage of Georgia. Among the attendees were wine experts and journalists from various corners of the globe, allowing Askanel wines to captivate their palates and establish its presence on an international scale.

As if these achievements weren’t enough to make Askaneli’s June truly remarkable, the winery received exceptional ratings from the renowned James Suckling – one of the world’s most influential wine critics, whose ratings are exclusively by invitation. Scoring an impressive 90 and above rating for multiple of their wines, including the ones from Gocha’s Collection (a WTA nominee and, yet again, a public vote winner in Brand – the Visiting Card of the Country category) is a testament to Askaneli’s unwavering dedication to crafting wines of the highest calibre, and it further cements their position as a true connoisseur’s choice.

Askaneli Winery & Distillery’s journey in June has been one of recognition and success. As they continue to share their passion for Georgian wine with the world, their presence on the global stage is ever-growing. Through their commitment to preserving and promoting Georgian winemaking’s rich traditions and culture, Askaneli has undoubtedly earned its place as a true ambassador for the country’s vinicultural legacy!

Throughout its 20-year journey, Askaneli has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from a humble family enterprise into a thriving and triumphant wine trading company in Georgia. As we raise our glasses to toast the finest offerings from the world of wine, there’s one name that has stood out magnificently amidst the sea of contenders and […]

Being the cradle of the renowned Asti DOCG and the UNESCO Heritage “Underground Cathedrals,” Canelli has reached a significant milestone.

The Journal of the European Union has officially recognized Canelli’s status as a protected designation of origin (DOCG) in accordance with the European Commission’s regulation (2023/1327). This official recognition applies exclusively to grapes cultivated from Moscato Bianco vines found within the 17 municipalities surrounding the Canelli sub-area, a region that bridges the Langhe and Monferrato.

For Flavio Giacomo Scagliola, Vice President of Consorzio dell’Asti DOCG, this accolade holds immense significance: “It is a fundamental element for the socio-economic growth of an area increasingly suited to wine tourism. The next step of the process involves the assignment of the monitoring organization, which will therefore soon see Consorzio dell’Asti protect Canelli DOCG together with Asti Spumante and Moscato d’Asti DOCG.”

Emerging as an area with boundless potential, Asti DOCG currently boasts a production of over 100 million bottles. Notably, Canelli holds a rich history, with the inception of the first Spumante Metodo Classico dating back to 1865, pioneered by Carlo Gancia, the visionary behind Asti Spumante. Embodying aromatic sweetness, delicate effervescence, and low alcohol content, the esteemed cru Canelli DOCG will be introduced to the market as Riserva after maturing and refining for a minimum of 30 months.

This regulatory acknowledgement reaffirms Canelli’s standing as a prime location for exceptional viticulture in Piedmont, solidifying its position as a distinguished “DOCG” label within the wine world.

Being the cradle of the renowned Asti DOCG and the UNESCO Heritage “Underground Cathedrals,” Canelli has reached a significant milestone. The Journal of the European Union has officially recognized Canelli’s status as a protected designation of origin (DOCG) in accordance with the European Commission’s regulation (2023/1327). This official recognition applies exclusively to grapes cultivated from […]

Daniel and Florence Cathiard arrived in Rioja for an exciting announcement: the unveiling of the top 50 World Best Vineyard 2023.

Recently, Daniel and Florence Cathiard, the owners of Château Smith Haut Lafitte, the Wine Travel Awards prize fund sponsor and nominee in The Visiting Card of the Country / Art & History Object category, arrived in Rioja for an exciting announcement: the unveiling of the top 50 World Best Vineyard 2023, a prestigious annual listing that celebrates the finest winery destinations across five continents, showcasing exceptional vineyard experiences from around the globe.

For the Cathiards, this recognition comes as no surprise. Château Smith Haut Lafitte has consistently held its position on this distinguished ranking for four consecutive years, and this year, it attained a remarkable milestone by securing a coveted spot in the top 5. Furthermore, it is the first French winery to achieve this remarkable feat.

Rooted in history that traces back to the fourteenth century, Château Smith Haut Lafitte has flourished under the stewardship of former French Olympic skier Daniel Cathiard and his wife Florence. Their transformative vision, spanning the past three decades, has etched an indelible mark on this quintessential Bordeaux winery, elevating it to a luxurious destination.

The Cathiards’ commitment to biodynamic farming has been central to their success, cultivating vineyards where shire horses gracefully plough the land, surrounded by verdant woodlands, lush orchards, and bustling beehives. This harmonious ecosystem enhances biodiversity, enriching not only the wines’ complexity but also ensuring the estate’s sustainability and minimising its carbon footprint.

The Cathiards have been joined in the business by their daughters. Mathilde, with the estate’s grape seeds and vine cuttings, established the internationally acclaimed beauty brand, Caudalie. Meanwhile, Alice manages the estate, including the five-star hotel Les Sources de Caudalie nestled amidst the vineyards and the two-Michelin-starred restaurant, La Grande’Vigne. The spa, featuring Caudalie Vinothérapie, provides a pampering experience, while a shop, wine bar, pool, gym, sauna, tennis court, and more offer a plethora of activities that can easily extend a visitor’s stay.

For day visitors, the tasting room in the orangery is an absolute must-visit. As you step onto the floorboards, a secret spot-lit stairway unveils itself, leading to the estate’s most treasured collection of bottles dating back to the nineteenth century.

Château Smith Haut Lafitte crafts red and white blends using the seven Bordeaux grape varieties, adhering to biodynamic principles and adopting some technological assistance. Satellite imagery diligently monitors the grapes, guiding the team to determine the precise moment for hand-harvesting.

On their way to the winery, the grapes are lovingly shielded by ergonomic hoods, designed by Daniel himself, ensuring protection from the weather. The estate’s own cooperage empowers the team to masterfully control the oak impact on the wine down to the minutest detail.

In the wake of their latest triumph, we extend heartfelt congratulations to the Cathiard family and the exceptional team at Château Smith Haut Lafitte. Their unwavering dedication to winemaking excellence and their commitment to sustainability stands as a true testament to the remarkable spirit of French winemaking.

Daniel and Florence Cathiard arrived in Rioja for an exciting announcement: the unveiling of the top 50 World Best Vineyard 2023. Recently, Daniel and Florence Cathiard, the owners of Château Smith Haut Lafitte, the Wine Travel Awards prize fund sponsor and nominee in The Visiting Card of the Country / Art & History Object category, […]

Recently, the Ukrainian city of Kyiv witnessed the unveiling of a remarkable limited edition champagne named “Victoire de la Dignité” or “Victory of Dignity.” The proceeds from the sales of this exclusive champagne will be directed towards the Main Military Clinical Hospital of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine and mobile military hospitals. Our Drinks+ journalist had the opportunity to interview the ideologist behind this philanthropic project.

The limited edition of Victoire de la Dignité comprises 2388 collectable bottles, created specially and exclusively for Ukraine. However, its uniqueness doesn’t end there. Victoire de la Dignité goes beyond being mere champagne; it is an exquisite collection of art objects. The labels of each bottle showcase reproductions of six paintings by contemporary Ukrainian artists, symbolizing the nation’s spirit of victory. These labels were crafted at the renowned Eclair printing house, which specializes in collaborating with esteemed Champagne brands. The entire collection was made possible through a charitable initiative initiated by the esteemed restaurateur, Mariia Didkovska, who partnered with the prestigious French family Champagne House, Pierre Morlet.

Located in the heart of Champagne, Avenay-Val-d’Or, Pierre Morlet is an independent Champagne House with a rich legacy spanning four generations. The Morlet family has been dedicated to producing robust and harmonious wines and nurturing vineyards in the region’s finest areas. Setting their vineyards apart is the unique use of a terraced cultivation system, a rarity for this region, which required complex creation and organization processes. Over 12 years, the Morlet family crafted this system by hand, combined with the region’s exceptional chalk-rich soil and moderate climate, creating an ideal environment for cultivating Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes.

Victoire de la Dignité was born from the 2015 harvest, which faced a threat due to an exceptionally early winter. The entire family worked tirelessly, day and night, using special burners to protect the vines and ensure full ripening of the grapes. Their relentless efforts resulted in the creation of this extraordinary champagne. Comprising 85% Chardonnay and 15% Pinot Noir, sourced from Premier Cru and Grand Cru vineyards, Victoire de la Dignité has been aged on lees for over six years, boasting ageing potential until 2030 when stored in a 10-12°C wine cellar. The Millésime qualification is backed by the meticulous process of manual harvesting and sorting. Victoire de la Dignité is available for purchase on the website and at the Citronelle restaurant.

On the artistic front, the project draws inspiration from Ukrainian artists. Oleksii Apollonov, Mykola Bilous, Olena Pryduvalova, Maryna Skugareva, Oleksandr Sukholit, and Oleh Tistol are the talented artists who infused their spirit into Victoire de la Dignité.

The original paintings, reproduced on the champagne labels, are being showcased at the National Art Museum of Ukraine during the “Anticipation of Victory” exhibition from July 6 to 20. This exclusive event offers visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of art and experience the creative essence through installations featuring the artists’ workshops.

Mariia Didkovska, the driving force behind this generous initiative and the owner of Citronelle restaurant and Saint Bar, has actively engaged in charitable initiatives for over seven years, her noteworthy projects being “Open Music of the City”, “Ode to Independence”, “Winter Wonders”, “Sounds of Peace”, “For the Sake of the Future” and many others. During the full-scale invasion, her charity funds have raised over 5 million hryvnias to acquire essential surgical and laparoscopic instruments for military mobile hospitals.

During the presentation of the Victoire de la Dignité project, Mariia shared her thoughts and insights with our Drinks+ observer about her collaboration with the House of Pierre Morlet and her visions for this champagne and future endeavours.

Drinks+: You previously collaborated with the House of Pierre Morlet to create champagne for your restaurant. Can you tell us more about that collaboration and how the idea for the Victoire de la Dignité project emerged?

Mariia Didkovska: Our collaboration with the House of Pierre Morlet started through a twist of fate and a deep-rooted friendship. About seven years ago, I had the privilege of meeting them, and it feels as if it was destined for this very moment, bringing forth the Victoire de la Dignité project today. The Champagne community is a close-knit one, not easily welcoming newcomers; those who have worked with them understand this well. My friend, Maryna Kerbitskaya, a Parisian chef, invited me to dinner once. We have been friends and collaborating for a long time: she occasionally introduces me to interesting chefs, and together we organise dinners at Citronelle in Kyiv. So, while in Paris, she invited me to dinner with her friends, where she brought a bottle of champagne from the House of Pierre Morlet. We found ourselves amidst a fascinating group of true Parisians, many of whom were involved in the world of art, creating a truly special atmosphere. A bit snobbish perhaps, but very, very delightful. So, as we were enjoying the champagne, many of the guests, who had experienced the richness of life and tasted various delicacies, showered compliments upon this wine, even though they were unfamiliar with the Champagne producer, Pierre Morlet. It was then that my friend began recounting their story, and to our surprise, among us was Mr Vincent, a friend and neighbour of the Morlet family. This revelation felt like a plot twist from a movie. Vincent and his father, Olivier, besides being close friends with the Morlet, also had a grandfather who happened to be the lawyer responsible for registering champagne as a product with an appellation of origin. This fact sparked countless conversations. Later, we visited Vincent’s place and met Eric Morlet, and from there, our regular meetings commenced. It all started with a simple idea from my friend: since there was exquisite champagne and the Citronelle restaurant, why not collaborate? However, we were cautious about undertaking a grand project, so we decided to create something unique for Citronelle first. We exchanged ideas, and I shared insights about our guests’ preferences. Eric Morlet proposed various options to create a special cuvée for us. That’s how our first release came to life, which we introduced to Kyiv five years ago. Since then, there have been subsequent releases, culminating in a delightful surprise on Citronelle’s 10th anniversary, where they crafted a special blanc de blancs dedicated to us. Over time, a special bond formed between us, rooted in genuine human connections. As the war unfolded, we received a call from them on the very first day, offering their support to our family. We discussed many plans and the possibility of providing financial assistance to Ukrainians in need. It was clear that collecting targeted amounts continually might not be sustainable, prompting us to envision a project with lasting impact. Thus, the inspiring concept of blending Ukrainian art’s expressiveness with the allure of champagne was born, giving life to Victoire de la Dignité.

D+: How would you describe the 2015 vintage, bottled in these champagne bottles?

M.D.: Creamy. It can be best likened to creamy French butter – both dense and delicate in character. With notes of white flowers. Smooth and buttery, owing to the dominant presence of Chardonnay.

D+: Are there any plans to expand the “Victory of Dignity” project?

M.D.: Certainly, there is some understanding of what we will do next, and there are ongoing activities. Currently, we host creative evenings at Saint Bar, and occasionally at Citronelle, where we bring together writers, composers, philosophers, and fascinating individuals. These gatherings not only inspire creative interactions but also serve as fundraising events, with the proceeds donated to the hospital. We intend to continue with these efforts. But I also have some ambitious visions for the future – I can’t reveal the details yet, but everything is related to these artists. While working together, we have become part of each other’s lives and have a vision of what we can do together in the future, involving other people as well. I’ve come up with an exciting thing, but it’s a secret for now.

D.+: Thank you for sharing your insights and for your dedication to this noble project. We eagerly await the further development of “Victory of Dignity,” a project that truly embodies the essence of Ukrainian creativity and the shared values with the French – a strong yearning for freedom and an unwavering belief in victory.

We’d like to remind our readers that t

his exceptional collection is available for purchase on the website and at the Citronelle restaurant. All proceeds from the sale of Victoire de la Dignité directly support the needs of the Main Military Clinical Hospital.

Recently, the Ukrainian city of Kyiv witnessed the unveiling of a remarkable limited edition champagne named “Victoire de la Dignité” or “Victory of Dignity.” The proceeds from the sales of this exclusive champagne will be directed towards the Main Military Clinical Hospital of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine and mobile military hospitals. Our Drinks+ […]

This year, the London Wine Fair, the official exhibition partner of Drinks+ and the Wine Travel Awards, brought together more than 400 exhibitors and more than 10,000 visitors. The London Wine Fair’s Net Promoter Score was an exceptional 23.7, which certainly speaks to the success of the event. Top UK agents have already confirmed their return next year. Organizers have announced the next dates, the London Wine Fair 2024 will take place from May 20 to 22 next year.

As the largest beverage trade exhibition in Great Britain, the London Wine Fair has been attracting tens of thousands of buyers from numerous bars, restaurants, supermarkets, independent traders, etc. for more than 40 years. This year, the London Wine Fair was visited by more than 10,000 people and more than 400 exhibitors became its participants. At the London Wine Fair 2023, the awarding ceremony of the WTA winners took place for the second time.

The London Wine Fair’s Net Promoter Score – the metric used by organizations to measure customer loyalty to their brand, product or service – was an exceptional 23.7 compared to the industry average of four. This score, which is 22 points higher than in 2022, speaks for itself about the success of the 2023 event. In response to such a triumph, key industry players have already announced their return to the 2024 event.

Leading UK agents including Hatch Mansfield, Enotria&Coe, ABS Wine Agencies, Felix Solis, Richmond Wine Agencies, Ellis Wines, Friarwood Fine Wine and EWGA have already confirmed they will be back next year. Mentzendorff announced its participation, with other major suppliers preparing to sign up in the coming weeks.

As for “far abroad”, after the effect that the New Zealand Wines pop-up tasting had on the attendees, they confirmed their intention to attend the 2024 event. A large Chinese wine stand will also be present in 2024.

Ronan Sayburn MS, CEO of The Court of Master Sommeliers Europe, will organize and host The Judgment of London at the London Wine Fair 2024. “This will be a reconstruction of the Judgment of Paris of 1976”, when the producers of Bordeaux and California competed with each other. And, as it is known, according to the result of the blind tasting, the wines of California won. The Judgment of Paris was organized by Steven Spurrier, a British wine expert, writer, educator, winemaker and trader. In 2019, Drinks+ editor-in-chief Olga Pinevich-Todoriuk was lucky enough to have had an exclusive interview with this legendary man.

At The Judgment of London, the best Bordeaux and New World estates will compete in blind tastings.

Photo: londonwinefair.com, facebook.com/londonwinefair

This year, the London Wine Fair, the official exhibition partner of Drinks+ and the Wine Travel Awards, brought together more than 400 exhibitors and more than 10,000 visitors. The London Wine Fair’s Net Promoter Score was an exceptional 23.7, which certainly speaks to the success of the event. Top UK agents have already confirmed their […]

On November 8-10, the 20th ENOEXPO will be held in Krakow – the largest and most important event in Poland, which unites the entire wine industry. Wine Travel Awards will present its own stand at ENOEXPO, where WTA partners will be able to present their wines; also there will be Walk-Around Tasting, and many other interesting activities. Follow the announcements at www.winetravelawards.com and www.drinks.ua.

This year Drinks+ & Wine Travel Awards begins fruitful and active cooperation with the largest wine exhibition in Poland – ENOEXPO, which now has the status of “The fair-partner of Wine Travel Awards” and has become a nominee of the WTA`s third season in the nomination “Enogastronomic Events – Magnet of the Region “. The exhibition will be held on November 8-10. The event will feature a stand where WTA partners will display their wines. WTA is a global project in the field of wine, culinary and tourism industries that brings together international professionals from all over the world. Also, on one of the exhibition days, the Wine Travel Awards will feature a special event, which we will be covering in the following news.

ENOEXPO is the largest wine event in Poland, a professional B2B meeting that provides an opportunity to establish business contacts between producers, importers and distributors from all over the world. The exhibition offers presentations of wines from different parts of the world, meetings and master classes held by recognized experts of the ENOEXPO Wine Academy, and prestigious wine competitions.

This year, the ENOEXPO Wine Competition will be held for the fifteenth time. Producers and importers of wine are invited to participate in the competition, regardless of whether they are participants of the ENOEXPO exhibition or not.

Applications for the participation in the competition are accepted in five nominations:

• Dry and semi-dry white wines (up to 18 g of sugar);
• Sparkling wines;
• Dry and semi-dry rosé wines (up to 18 g of sugar);
• Dry and semi-dry red wines (up to 18 g of sugar);
• Sweet, semi-sweet and fortified wines (more than 18 g of sugar).

The ENOEXPO medal is a prestigious award that confirms the exceptional quality of the presented samples and helps to achieve commercial success. The medal ceremony takes place on the first day of ENOEXPO, and the awarded wines are displayed in the showcases of the exhibition for the audience to see.

You can find out more about the competition and participation in it here.

The Polish Wine and Cider Competition will also be held as part of the exhibition, the main idea of which is to promote wine, cider and mead produced in Poland. The competition is open to producers of the specified beverages, regardless of whether they are participants of the ENOEXPO® exhibition or not. More detailed information is here.

ENOEXPO is held simultaneously with HORECA/GASTROFOOD – the 30th International Exhibition of Equipment for Hotels and Catering Enterprises HORECA and the 21st Food and Beverage Exhibition for Catering GASTROFOOD.

On November 8-10, the 20th ENOEXPO will be held in Krakow – the largest and most important event in Poland, which unites the entire wine industry. Wine Travel Awards will present its own stand at ENOEXPO, where WTA partners will be able to present their wines; also there will be Walk-Around Tasting, and many other […]

The Old Vine Registry is a new online database that aims to be the most comprehensive resource for information about old-vine vineyards around the world. The registry was launched by a group of wine lovers and experts who are passionate about preserving and celebrating the unique character of old vines. 

The Old Vine Registry is a valuable resource for wine lovers, winemakers, and academics. The registry is covering all major wine-producing regions in the world, each entry including details such as the location of the vineyard, the grape varieties grown, the age of the vines, and the winemaker responsible for producing the wines. The registry also includes terroir and tasting notes for many of the wines produced from old vines.

In addition to providing information about old vines, the Old Vine Registry encourages people to get involved in the preservation of these special vineyards. The registry includes a “Submit a Vineyard” button that allows people to share information about old vines that are not yet in the database. It helps to ensure that the registry remains as comprehensive as possible.

The future of old vines is uncertain. Many old vines are being pulled up and replaced with younger ones due to several factors, including the increasing cost of winemaking, the changing climate, and the popularity of international grape varieties. However, there is a growing movement to preserve old vines. 

Why do old vines matter? They hold the key to sustainability in the face of a planetary crisis. These ancient plants have survived and adapted to extreme conditions, making them more resilient to drought, heatwaves, pests, and diseases. They require less irrigation and chemical inputs, contributing to healthier soils and reduced environmental impact. Furthermore, old vines preserve clonal diversity and rare varieties, providing valuable genetic material for studying and propagating more resilient young vines. They also play a crucial role in local ecosystems, contributing to biomass, carbon storage, and hydrological cycles. Additionally, old vines represent a connection to history, tradition, and the people who have nurtured them. To protect these vital resources, we need to assign greater value to old-vine wines, invest in preservation efforts, and support initiatives that incentivise winegrowers and educate the community. 

The creators of the Old Vine Registry deserve immense gratitude and recognition. Jancis Robinson, a renowned international wine writer, has played a crucial role in recognising and writing about the importance of old vines. Alder Yarrow, a WTA nominee in “Wine & Food Influencer/Author of the Year” category, was the architect and project manager who dedicated countless hours and expertise to developing the online platform. Tamlyn Currin collaborated with Jancis to bring the Old Vine Registry to life, contributing entries and regular articles. Sarah Abbott MW gathered the wine trade community, connecting people and transforming ideas into action. Benjamin Roelfs significantly expanded the registry, and Christo Spies, Ulrich Enslin, and their colleagues provided invaluable technological support. Lauren Bessen’s web design work added to the platform’s appeal. The launch of the platform was made possible through a generous grant from Jackson Family Wines.

The Old Vine Registry is a new online database that aims to be the most comprehensive resource for information about old-vine vineyards around the world. The registry was launched by a group of wine lovers and experts who are passionate about preserving and celebrating the unique character of old vines.  The Old Vine Registry is […]

Britt and Per Karlsson, nominees and winners in various categories of the Wine Travel Awards and a renowned couple in the world of wine tourism, have recently embarked on a project focused on wine tourism in Ukraine. 

Impressed by the dedication of Ukrainian winemakers to their craft and the emerging interest in wine tourism, Britt and Per Karlson felt delighted and honoured when asked to deliver a series of presentations on developing wine tourism and establishing effective collaborations within the industry. 

Having dedicated over two decades to organizing wine tours professionally, the Karlssons have amassed a wealth of experience. Their journey began in 1986 with a wine tour to Bordeaux, initially undertaken with friends. Reflecting on their early encounters with renowned estates like Chateau Pétrus and Chateau d’Yquem, they acknowledged that times have changed. Today, the key element in wine tourism, they believe, lies in connecting with the right individuals at the wineries visited. This personalized touch has become one of the primary reasons people choose to travel with them.

Returning to their recent engagement in Ukraine, Britt and Per Karlsson conducted a four-session series of seminars covering a wide range of topics encompassing “everything about wine tourism.” The discussions included exploring the economic impact of wine tourism, motivations for wineries to engage in it, the various types of wine tourism, and the different profiles of wine tourists. They also delved into strategies for wineries to enhance the visitor experience and shared insights on marketing, collaboration, and overall development in both wine tourism and the wine business.

Their involvement in the project was part of a broader initiative supported by the United Nations and organized by the International Trade Centre, which has ties to the World Trade Organization. Additionally, the Swedish government provided partial financial backing.

Anticipating the day when they, along with wine enthusiasts worldwide, can discover the wines and wine regions of Ukraine firsthand, Britt and Per Karlsson invite others to join them on a potential future wine tour to Ukraine. Until then, they encouraged individuals to support Ukraine by enjoying Ukrainian wines – a simple yet meaningful gesture that can make a difference.

Britt and Per Karlsson, nominees and winners in various categories of the Wine Travel Awards and a renowned couple in the world of wine tourism, have recently embarked on a project focused on wine tourism in Ukraine.  Impressed by the dedication of Ukrainian winemakers to their craft and the emerging interest in wine tourism, Britt […]

Ukrainian winery‘s first biodynamic release opens the gate for the industry.

“But, seriously, do you really have a bull’s horn filled with manure buried in the ground somewhere?” – “Not just a horn. We have the whole skull. Would you like to take a look? Over here, behind the barn” – says winemaker Ihor Petrenko, co-owner of Biologist, an organic and biodynamic winery located in the village of Lisnyky near Kyiv. He takes up the shovel, and one minute later there’s a cow’s skull in his hands, spreading a very peculiar “organic“ odor. Because, well, manure is manure.

“We make preparations from fermented herbs, too: St. John’s wort, celandine, clover, nettle – in total, more than 20 varieties of plants and herbs growing in the neighborhood. In biodynamics, it is important to use everything that is at hand, which is exactly what we do,” continues Igor. – “The bad news is, fermented herbs don’t smell very good either. Two weeks after the start of fermentation, when we add a little sulfur and copper to the vats and start cultivating the vineyards, even the birds fly away in horror, unable to stand this ombre, and the neighbors wonder if we have set up a pig farm in the vineyards. This situation usually lasts a couple of days – short, but rather intense. In a while the aroma dissipates, the birds come back, and the neighbors are happy and relaxed again.”

Here we have to make a disclaimer regarding organic and biodynamic traditions in Ukraine. For Ukrainians, organic method is nothing unusual: even if we do not take into account the ancient history of Ukrainian winemaking, which is currently being actively researched and revived by experts and which, according to their estimates, dates back at least a couple of thousand years, we can be sure that Ukraine’s “new wave” winemakers, primarily craft ones, have been producing organic and natural wines for many years, even though they’ve never bothered with certification. However, Biologist is the first Ukrainian winery to announce the use of the biodynamic method in viticulture and winemaking. This year, they’ve had their first release of biodynamic wines under the symbolic name of Pershotvir, which, translated from Ukrainian, means “the first creation“.

Only a few years have passed from winemaker Ihor Petrenko‘s first acquaintance with biodynamic wines till the moment when he released his first biodynamic collection. “Even before I launched my own winery, I‘d heard a lot about biodynamics, but I hadn’t really immersed myself in the subject. In 2019, at the stand of my favorite Michel Chapoutier at ProWein expo in Dusseldorf, I was especially impressed by one of his wines from Condrieux – I think it was Coteau de Chery 2012. By then I was very well familiar with Chapoutier‘s wines, and I really loved them. However, that was the first biodynamic wine I tasted from him, and the first biodynamic wine I‘ve tasted, in general. And I realized that an inspired and professional winemaker who knew what he was doing could create truly outstanding wines with the help of biodynamics.”

Among the “stars” of biodynamics, Ihor singles out, of course, Nicolas Joly, Loire’s pioneer of the biodynamic movement. He also believes that excellent biodynamic wines are produced in Tuscany and Alsace, and he is overly impressed by the transition of the winery producing the most expensive wines in the world, La Romanee-Conti, to biodynamic viticulture and winemaking. However, the biodynamic wines of M. Chapoutier remain to be iconic for Ihor Petrenko.

Inspired by these wines, Igor decided to set up biodynamic vineyards in two small plots near Kyiv, in the villages of Lisnyky and Bezradychy. Besides the biodynamic approach, these plots can boast a remarkable collection of grape varieties. In Lisnyky, mainly typical French, Austrian and German varieties are grown: two reds – Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon, and whites – Grüner Veltliner, Müller-Thurgau, Weissburgunder (Pinot Blanc), Gewürztraminer, Riesling and Chardonnay.

In Bezradychy, the choice of vines is even more eclectic: reds – Pinot Noir and Saperavi, whites – Aligote, Gewürztraminer and the famous Ukrainian indigenous grape, Telti-Kuruk, which, until now, has been grown only in the south of Ukraine, in Odesa and Mykolaiv regions. This year “biologists” expect their first vintage of Telti-Kuruk grown in the north, near Kyiv. Currently, the total area of both vineyards does not exceed 3 hectares, but every year Biologist is expanding, planting new vines and looking for new plots. 

Ihor Petrenko considers his decision to produce not only organic and natural, but also biodynamic wines, to be a completely logical development: “First and foremost, biodynamics is all about autonomy and harmony, totally matching my vision and perception of the world. It’s a constant search for a healthy balance in the relationship between humans, plants and animals coexisting in the same space, as well as immune protection and maintaining the biodiversity of each plot. I felt that this would be a very interesting path in viticulture and winemaking. So far, I have never regretted choosing it.”

Ihor Petrenko’s background education in biodynamic agriculture comes from the AgroCare Ukrainian Center for Applied Biodynamics. Vitaly Vorontsov, the Center’s leading expert, advises Petrenko on cultivation, production of biodynamic preparations and other issues. But biodynamics is a lot more than the set of rules for viticulture and vinification. “I’m aware of the fact that my current understanding of biodynamics is not complete. There is a long way of learning ahead of me. There are a lot of spiritual and philosophical issues that I have to study, to get a better understanding of the method and its true deep meaning. I read Rudolf Steiner’s works, and it’s never easy, but, step by step, I am moving forward,” – says the winemaker.

Ihor considers the lack of local biodynamic winemaking expertise to be the biggest challenge at the moment: “I spoke with several European biodynamic winemakers, they shared their experience with me, but those were, mostly, some basic things: the calendar, the list and recipes of preparations, nothing more. I still feel the need for a profound understanding of the biodynamic processes and professional consultations.”

Now it’s time to say a few words about the Pershotvir wines. “This is our first biodynamic vintage, 2022, and the first release of biodynamic wines by Biologist winery. The vines are still very young, these wines are not perfect and need some improvement, but I see a lot of potential in them. We took a risk and made this series of wines completely sulfur-free, so I give all our customers advice on how to store them properly.”

There are currently three dry wines in Biologist’s biodynamic series: Pershotvir Sparkling Biodynamics, a blend of three varieties – Chardonnay, Grüner Veltliner and Müller-Thurgau, methode ancestral; Pershotvir Rose Biodynamics – skin contact, a blend of Traminer, Chardonnay, Grüner Veltliner, Müller-Thurgau and Riesling; Pershotvir Red Biodynamics — a blend of Merlot, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenere. These wines are bright and rich in aroma and taste, with a lot of character, despite the relatively young age of the vines, and also very “clean” despite the absence of sulfites and the usage of indigenous yeast.

So what’s next? Ihor Petrenko is certain that he and the Biologist Winery team will continue to improve their skills in biodynamics, aspiring for perfection: “There will be new releases, new wines, we will be able to study their development, experiment and create something new. Last year we applied for an international certificate of organic production, and our application has been approved, so in less than a year we will be able to place the green leaf on our label. Right now we are in the process of completing our application for the Demeter certificate. Due to ongoing russian military aggression in Ukraine, unfortunately, Demeter experts will not be able to visit our winery in the near future, so the certification will be only on paper for now, but the most important thing is that we are already entering the so-called “transition period”. Still, obtaining international certificates is not an overriding goal for us. Our biodynamic vineyards must gain strength and maturity. Currently, the volume of production of biodynamic wines in our winery is small, only 2-3 thousand bottles per year. We are planting approximately 8-10 thousand vines per hectare and we are increasing our “land bank”, so the production volume will increase too. Biodynamics winemaking is not an easy path, and I am often asked if it’s worth the effort. Is it, really? I think it is, at least I am extremely fascinated by the process. I was wondering if we’d be able to do it. In my opinion, we are. To be continued.”

Photos: courtesy of Biologist Winery

Ukrainian winery‘s first biodynamic release opens the gate for the industry. “But, seriously, do you really have a bull’s horn filled with manure buried in the ground somewhere?” – “Not just a horn. We have the whole skull. Would you like to take a look? Over here, behind the barn” – says winemaker Ihor Petrenko, […]

Ron Colón Salvadoreño, this year’s nominees, partners and proud members of the WTA community, have unveiled their latest creation, the Red Banana Oleo Rum. Inspired by the shade-giving banana trees in El Salvador’s coffee farms, this innovative rum showcases a harmonious blend of natural ingredients and sustainable farming practices.

The Ron Colón team discovered the perfect combination of their Dark Aged Rum, banana oleo saccharum, chocolate, and tiki bitters, which led to the creation of a cocktail that captured the essence of El Salvador’s red bananas, known for their mix of plantain and yellow banana flavours with a touch of berry-like sweetness.

Co-founder Pepijn Janssens witnessed the beneficial relationship between banana trees and coffee farms during a visit to El Salvador. Intrigued by the concept, the team explored incorporating these ingredients into their rum production process. Bartenders showcased the recycling process of banana peel oleo, inspiring them to create an all-natural, organic product that authentically embodies the banana’s flavour. They wanted to avoid artificial flavour extracts and instead rely only on the organic banana to infuse their rum with its unmistakable taste.

Raise a glass of their Red Banana Oleo Rum and experience the harmonious fusion of nature and innovation that defines Ron Colón Salvadoreño’s exceptional spirits.

Ron Colón Salvadoreño, this year’s nominees, partners and proud members of the WTA community, have unveiled their latest creation, the Red Banana Oleo Rum. Inspired by the shade-giving banana trees in El Salvador’s coffee farms, this innovative rum showcases a harmonious blend of natural ingredients and sustainable farming practices. The Ron Colón team discovered the […]