Gastronomy and Wine Portal

LOISIUM WeinWelt, the WTA nominee in the Visiting card of the country / Must visit category, located in the Austrian Langenlois, is a wine culture complex  spectacularly conceived and designed by a New York architect Steven Holl. The complex boasts 900-year-old wine cellars, where one can take a tour guided by Veltlina, a personal audio guide (the name obviously originating from Gruner Veltliner, one of the main grape varieties of Kamptal, the wine region in Lower Austria, where the complex is located), the Vinotheque with a wonderful collection of wines from the region, and tasting room hosting multiple wine tastings for wine lovers and professionals.

The good thing about successful businesses is that they never stay within the limits of the concept, expanding their ideas and activities. LOISIUM WeinWelt demonstrates an example of such approach, offering its visitors a variety of engaging and interesting events this season. One of them is a row of fun wine tastings called Winzer.Aperitivo, each of them starring a “winemaker of the month”, selected by the LOISIUM WeinWelt’s team. These tastings suggest a laid-back format allowing guests to meet the winemakers, taste their wines, listen to their stories, ask questions and communicate in a casual, informal environment. What a wonderful way to introduce the most interesting wineries and wines of the region to both international and local tourists! 

Another innovative idea successfully implemented by the LOISIUM WeinWelt’s team is the LOISIUM Vineyard Cinema. It’s an open air cinema romantically placed in the middle of the vineyards, with a huge screen and a good sound system. The movie to be watched is usually chosen by public voting in the LOISIUM WeinWelt’s social media. The visitors are offered drinks, including, of course, wines from the Vinoteque, and snacks. The Vineyard Cinema doors open more than an hour before the show, giving guests a great opportunity to enjoy a drink and chat with friends before the movie begins. Watching a good movie accompanied by amazing regional wines — what a great plan to enjoy warm and fresh summer nights, and a good idea to integrating wine culture into lazy summer activities. Well done, LOISIUM, to be continued!

LOISIUM WeinWelt, the WTA nominee in the Visiting card of the country / Must visit category, located in the Austrian Langenlois, is a wine culture complex  spectacularly conceived and designed by a New York architect Steven Holl. The complex boasts 900-year-old wine cellars, where one can take a tour guided by Veltlina, a personal audio […]

In August 2022, the wine expert and writer Elizabeth Smith visited Hungary for a winery tour, including Béres, Préselő, Bodrog Borműhely Winery, and Tokaj Nobilis. In January 2023, Smith continued her exploration of Hungarian wines at a Tokaj masterclass held at Compline Wine Shop in Napa with importer Eric Danch. And now, Hungary once again. This time, Elizabeth Smith, a WTA nominee from the United States, will be a judge at the Winelovers Wine Awards in Budapest.

The Winelovers Wine Awards, previously a national-level competition which has expanded its reach to the international stage since 2022, will be held in Budapest from July 7th to 9th.

Just like last year, this year’s competition features a panel of judges consisting of leading international experts, including the Wine Travel Awards 2022-2023 nominee in the “Wine & Food Influencer/The Brightest Journey” category and the winner of the public vote, Elizabeth Smith.

Global Community Manager of Wine Travel Awards, Editor-in-chief of Drinks+ magazine, Olga Pinevich-Todoriuk will also be part of the Winelovers Wine Awards jury. Representatives of the Drinks+ Communication Media Group have been participating as judges in Mundus Vini and Concours Mondial de Bruxelles for many years in a row.

Elizabeth Smith is a wine author at Naked Wines USA and a member of the International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association. In 2017, Smith received the Born Digital Wine award for the best wine-focused travel content for the story “Lodi: Beyond Zinfandel.” In 2022, she won a category at the annual Hungarian Web Wine Writing Competition for “2018 Wetzer Furmint, Tokaj, Hungary.”

“I am delighted to announce that this summer I am returning to Hungary as a judge at the Winelovers Wine Awards in Budapest, – Elizabeth Smith announced on her social media page. – I am looking forward to reconnecting with my colleagues and friends from Hungarian Wines and finding like-minded individuals in winemaking.”

Elizabeth highlights that this trip will also be an unforgettable vacation. She plans to explore the iconic landmarks of Budapest and then visit the Slovakian wine regions of Nitra and Vráble for the first time. One of the must-visit wineries for Elizabeth Smith is Víno Tajna, known for crafting limited quantities of craft wines exclusively from their own vineyards.

As a reminder, this year, just like the previous one, the organizers of the Winelovers Wine Awards have announced that participation is free for Ukrainian winemakers.

Photo: facebook.com/elizabethsmith, winetravelawards.com

In August 2022, the wine expert and writer Elizabeth Smith visited Hungary for a winery tour, including Béres, Préselő, Bodrog Borműhely Winery, and Tokaj Nobilis. In January 2023, Smith continued her exploration of Hungarian wines at a Tokaj masterclass held at Compline Wine Shop in Napa with importer Eric Danch. And now, Hungary once again. […]

Wine Travel Awards (WTA) proudly presents the latest edition of the WTA Guide, dedicated to the esteemed Consorzio dell’Asti DOCG, with whom we are extremely pleased to collaborate for two consecutive years.

In 2022, Consorzio dell’Asti celebrated its momentous 90th anniversary with a remarkable exhibition titled “Novant’anni di bollicine” or “90 Years of Bubbles.” This extraordinary showcase traced the Consortium’s illustrious history, intricately woven with the stories of renowned Italian sparkling wine producers.

This year, the WTA community welcomed 20 exceptional nominees, including wineries, wine brands, wine routes, personalities, and events that collectively contribute to the magnificent narrative of Asti Spumante and Moscato d’Asti. These remarkable individuals and their personal stories are prominently showcased in the pages of the WTA Guide.

Explore how the renowned Consorzio dell’Asti DOCG operates, delve into their new vectors and marketing strategies, and discover the sustainable development initiatives undertaken by Asti winemakers. 

In the exclusive interview for the WTA Guide, we had the privilege of discussing these fascinating topics and more with Mr. Giacomo Pondini, the general director of the Consorzio.

Join us as we embark on a sparkling journey through the enchanting world of Consorzio dell’Asti DOCG. The WTA Guide illuminates the stories and successes that have shaped this remarkable wine region, showcasing the dedication and passion of the winemakers who bring these exceptional wines to life.

If you would like to become part of our next WTA Guide devoted to your region or country, please contact us via partnership@winetravelawards.com

Wine Travel Awards (WTA) proudly presents the latest edition of the WTA Guide, dedicated to the esteemed Consorzio dell’Asti DOCG, with whom we are extremely pleased to collaborate for two consecutive years. In 2022, Consorzio dell’Asti celebrated its momentous 90th anniversary with a remarkable exhibition titled “Novant’anni di bollicine” or “90 Years of Bubbles.” This […]

Domäne Wachau, the WTA nominee in the Visiting card of the country / Must visit category, is the only estate in the entire Wachau region to nurture exclusive parcels in every well-known single vineyard of the Wachau.

The wines of Domäne Wachau express the character and the best terroir features of renowned single vineyard sites, such as Loibenberg, Achleiten, 1000-Eimer-Berg, Singerriedel and Kellerberg. Vineyard terraces with dry stone walls are an essential part – and, in fact, a hallmark – of the terroirs of the Wachau.

Wachau’s steep and terraced vineyards not only require a lot of work and produce amazing quality wines. They are also a tourist attraction. This summer the famous Domäne is organizing several WINE.RIEDEN.HIKE tours, showing Wachau at its best. After a short train ride on the Wachaubahn from Dürnstein to Weissenkirchen, visitors will hike on the Achleitenweg through the legendary vineyard. Further in the tour continues up the Danube to Spitz, and later the river current takes the tourists along the vineyards back to Dürnstein. Along the road, the organizers offer their guests a selection of excellent wines, a large collection of exciting and interesting stories and plenty of culinary delights. This is definitely a valuable experience for wine lovers, not-to-be-missed!

Visitors can also experience the unique nature around the Domäne Wachau winery having a wine picnic at the foot of the Kellerberg mountain. The winery team will lovingly pack a picnic backpack for their guests, filled with a bottle of wine, a fine snack and Wachau specialties. There‘s a lot to see around: the Danube, beautiful, quiet places and a spectacular landscape with unique vineyards and dry stone walls. Independent picnickers are given tips for the best pit-stop locations and hiking trails in Loiben and Dürnstein directly from the winery‘s on-site team. Picnic tours are available on a regular basis, Monday through Saturday.

On July 8, the famous chateau will hold a huge music and dance event, combining   the chill wine tasting with fine beats. MUSIC & WINE: Domäne Wachau  + friends event will gather over 30 Wachauer top wineries, food trucks, offering their guests great wine, tasty food, spirits and cocktails and cool DJ sound – all of this in a unique atmosphere at the foot of the picturesque vineyard-planted Kellerberg mountain.

Besides their own events, Domäne Wachau are also engaged in various collaborations. As a matter of fact, the winery‘s amazing Grüner Veltliner Federspiel Terrassen 2022 has been chosen as the official white wine of the Salzburg Festival this year. 

Speaking of amazing wines, we will close this piece by more wonderful news from Domäne Wachau: their Grüner Veltliner & Riesling Emerald Ried Achleiten 2022 has been recently awarded a gold medal by Decanter, with a solid high score of 95 points. Congratulations to the award winning wine and its creators – well done, the Domäne Wachau team, and wishing you lots of success with the forthcoming vintage!

Domäne Wachau, the WTA nominee in the Visiting card of the country / Must visit category, is the only estate in the entire Wachau region to nurture exclusive parcels in every well-known single vineyard of the Wachau. The wines of Domäne Wachau express the character and the best terroir features of renowned single vineyard sites, […]

Schloss Esterházy (Esterhazy Palace), located in Burgenland, Austria, the WTA nominee in the and public voting winner in the Cultural mission category, is, traditionally, one of the country’s hottest spots both for local and international tourism.

Striking and imposing, Esterházy Palace has many memories to share: Joseph Haydn’s former place of work, a cradle of Viennese Classicism and a venue for magnificent concerts and festivities, today the Palace welcomes visitors as a museum and contemporary event location. 

The culture on offer here includes exciting adventures: excursions, thematic picnics, sommer classics matinees, open-air operas, jazz and rock music concerts, family festivals and other special events will definitely attract all types of travelers and culture lovers this summer. Only an hour away from Vienna by car, standing in the midst of the unique Pannonian landscape, Esterházy Palace is the region’s true tourist magnet.

The Esterházy private foundation’s aim is to create a link between the past and the present and to interpret history based on a contemporary approach, integrating modern culture, gastronomy and winemaking within the classic and historical environment. For example, in the former court stables one may find Henrici, a top-notch restaurant serving Pannonian and Mediterranean cuisine. Right next door, visitors may enjoy the splendid wines of Burgenland, wine tastings and master-classes at the Selektion Vinothek Burgenland, to accompany regional treats of the season at the Kulinarium Burgenland Market Hall. The Herbstgold Festival will be held at Esterházy Palace from September 9 to 24, 2023. It will combine the aspects of classical, jazz and Balkan Roma music with food & wine and the tradition of the historic location.

One of the Palace’s main attractions is, no doubt, the largest wine museum in Austria located in the basement of Esterházy. It displays over 700 exhibits from Burgenland’s rich wine history. The wine museum, occupying  spacious rooms, corridors and vaults of the Palace, offers an authentic tour into the world of wine and into the history of wine culture in the Pannonian region.

Multi-cultural journey combined with amazing Austrian wines and gastronomic specialities from the heart of Burgenland — probably one of the best things to experience this summer. Esterházy Palace is welcoming guests!

Schloss Esterházy (Esterhazy Palace), located in Burgenland, Austria, the WTA nominee in the and public voting winner in the Cultural mission category, is, traditionally, one of the country’s hottest spots both for local and international tourism. Striking and imposing, Esterházy Palace has many memories to share: Joseph Haydn’s former place of work, a cradle of […]

Congratulations on the new victories of Villa Tinta, the WTA nominee in the category of The Visiting Card of the Country/Must Visit. Over the past months, Villa Tinta has received more than ten medals at international and Ukrainian wine competitions.

Situated in the picturesque Yalpug Lake Valley, Villa Tinta owns 550 hectares of vineyards (and additionally processes grapes grown on 600 hectares of partner vineyards). The unique terroir finds its expression in wines made from European varieties as well as local ones like Odesa Black and Sukholimansky. The winery offers a range of wines, including Villa Tinta (dry table wines from local and European grape varieties), Tintarella (sparkling wines made using the Charmat-Martinotti method), and Tinta (semi-sweet  cuvée wines).

The quality of Villa Tintas wines, which is regularly confirmed by results in professional competitions, is ensured not only by the exceptional terroir, but also by top-notch equipment and highly skilled winemakers.

Villa Tinta actively promotes its wines in Ukraine and internationally. This spring, the company, alongside the finest Ukrainian wines at the Wines of Ukraine collective stand, participated in ProWein, the official exhibition partner of Drinks+ and the Wine Travel Awards, in Düsseldorf, Vyno dienos in Vilnius, and the London Wine Fair, the official exhibition partner of Drinks+ and the Wine Travel Awards. Furthermore, their exceptional wines garnered significant attention at Wine&Spirits Ukraine and Vinnytsia Wine Days in Ukraine.

Vinnytsia Wine Days 2023, a new wine event in Ukraine founded just this year, was held despite the ongoing war and destruction. These wine culture days included exhibitions, tastings, professional conferences, masterclasses, and the nationwide tasting competitions Odesa Wine&Spirit Awards та «Best Odesa Black». Blind tastings were conducted by a jury of 12 experts, according to the rules and standards of the International Organization of Vine and Wine (OIV). As a result, Villa Tinta Odessa Black 2020 premium collection and Villa Tinta Odessa Black 2019 VIP collection received gold medals in the competition.

During the Wine&Spirits Ukraine 2023 exhibition (held in Kyiv on March 29-31th), the international tasting competition Ukraine Wine&Spirits Awards took place, supported by the Association of Sommeliers of Ukraine and the International Sommelier Association, following the standards of the OIV (International Organisation of Vine and Wine). This competition of resilient Ukrainian winemakers, who continued their peaceful craft even during war, shelling, and rocket attacks, has set a record in the number of platinum and gold medals!

In the Ukraine Wine&Spirits Awards 2023, Villa Tinta received five gold and eight silver medals, with eight out of eight submitted samples becoming winners.

Villa Tinta earned gold medals for a wide range of their wines, including Villa Tinta Odessa Black 2019 VIP collection, Villa Tinta Odessa Black 2020, Villa Tinta Cabernet 2019 VIP wine selection, Villa Tinta Cabernet 2020, Villa tinta Merlot 2018 VIP wine selection. The silver medals were received by Villa Tinta Irsai Oliver 2020, Villa Tinta Riesling 2019, Villa Tinta Sukholimansky 2020.

We also express our congratulations and pride for Villa Tinta’s performance at the International Wine & Spirit Competition, one of the most prestigious contests worldwide. At this event, Villa Tinta Odesa Black 2019 VIP wine selection  received a silver medal with an impressive score of 91 points from esteemed judges.

Villa Tinta Winery is a member of the “Danube Bessarabia” Association of Grape Growers and Winemakers, as well as a part of the  «Wine and Taste Road of Ukrainian Bessarabia», the winner of the Wine Travel Awards 2023 in the category of The Visiting Card of the Country/Region of the year.

May Villa Tinta continue to succeed in wine competitions and flourish in its commitment to sustainable development in a peaceful country!

Congratulations on the new victories of Villa Tinta, the WTA nominee in the category of The Visiting Card of the Country/Must Visit. Over the past months, Villa Tinta has received more than ten medals at international and Ukrainian wine competitions. Situated in the picturesque Yalpug Lake Valley, Villa Tinta owns 550 hectares of vineyards (and […]

The Wine Travel Awards community is happy to welcome a new member. “ARMENIA WINE” Winery and Vineyards becomes a nominee for the 2023-2024 edition reinforcing a common effort of the Armenian wine industry in promoting their country as a magnificent enogastronomic destination. The guests of the WTA Ceremony at the London Wine Fair had a chance to taste wines produced by “Armenia Wine”.

The Armenia Wine Company has a captivating story that reflects the rich winemaking heritage of Armenia. Situated in the heart of the historic Ararat Valley, this esteemed winery combines tradition, innovation, and a deep passion for winemaking.

The inception of “Armenia Wine” can be traced back to the deep love that the Vardanyan and Mkrtchyan families have for their homeland, nature, and culture. The company started its winemaking journey in 2008 combining the 6000-year heritage of Armenian winemaking, wine culture, and modern international technologies on one idea: presenting Armenian wine to the world as a sample of the national value.

At the core of their winemaking philosophy is a commitment to sustainability and organic practices. The vineyards are carefully tended using environmentally friendly methods, respecting the natural balance of the ecosystem. The winery embraces modern technology while staying true to ancient winemaking techniques that have been passed down through generations.

“ARMENIA WINE” Winery and Vineyards boasts an impressive portfolio of wines, ranging from reds and whites to rosés and sparkling wines. They take pride in their extensive collection of indigenous grape varieties, including Armenian and European grape varieties like Areni Noir, Kangun, and Voskehat, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Viogne ….. the blends of these grape varieties fully express the uniqueness of the Armenian Terroir.

What sets the Armenia Wine Company apart is their dedication to innovation and experimentation. They constantly push boundaries by exploring new winemaking methods, aging techniques, and blending styles. This commitment to creativity has earned them numerous accolades and recognition from international wine competitions and experts. Among them, the company’s organic wine BioNe is an oddity to Mother Nature. The French chef consultant and winemaker of the company Jean-Baptiste Soula mentions: “Armenian highland is an ideal environment for organic viticulture, and making organic wine in Armenia was an amazing experience”.

Beyond crafting exceptional wines, the Armenia Wine Company also aims to promote Armenian culture and heritage. “The ultra-premium novelty of the company “Tariri Karasum” is an excellent example for that. The wine ages in the clay pots /karas/ for a year, preserving the pure aromas given from the Nature. This wine is a perfect blend of all the grape varieties harvested during the year. It truly expresses the features of Armenian terroir”- mentions the commercial director of the company Kristine Vardanyan.

Armenia Wine Company has taken the responsibility not only to present Armenian wine to the world but also to popularise Armenian culture, colorful traditions, and history. For this aim together with the ministries of culture and education the Wine History Museum of Armenia opened in the territory of the winery in 2017. With this big step, Armenia Wine Company became a state-of-the-art center of culture, history, and education.

With a vision rooted in the past and an unwavering focus on the future, the Armenia Wine Company continues to be a leading force in the Armenian wine industry. Their wines, imbued with the essence of Armenia’s ancient winemaking traditions and the spirit of innovation, captivate wine enthusiasts around the world, making them a true ambassador of Armenian winemaking excellence.

Nowadays the company’s activity includes several key-points which reflect the dimension of the company and the high level of working style.

1. Yearly production capacity of up to 14 mln bottles
2. 135 hectares of own vineyards
3. 83 hectares of organic vineyards
4. Cooperation with more than 600 winegrowers from 4 winemaking regions
5. Regular export to more than 50 countries
6. Cooperation with international experts and winemakers: Jean-Baptiste Soula as the chef-consultant, Olivier Chapt as the main brandy maker, and Paulo Piera as the sparkling wine master.

Tasting experience with “Armenia Wine” at the WTA Ceremony

Tariri. Areni, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon Red Dry Wine

ORIGIN: Vayots Dzor and Armavir regions

GRAPE: Areni 50% (Vayots Dzor), Cabernet Sauvignon 25% and Merlot 25% (Armavir)

HARVEST DATE: End September, early October

CLIMATE: Continental climate. Vineyards are situated at the altitude of 1200 meters above sea level.

YIELD: 45 hl/ha

WINEMAKING: The grapes are hand-harvested at the peak of their maturity and transferred to the estate in small boxes in refrigerator trucks. Last strict sorting on the selection table during grape reception. Two weeks of alcoholic fermentation and maceration with temperature between 26 to 28°C in stainless steel tanks.

TASTING NOTES: This deep red colour wine has a complex nose with fruity aroma (blackberries, wild cherries, grapes) with a touch of spicy, peppery notes. The palate is structured yet elegant, velvety yet persistent. Cabernet Sauvignon gives the wine black currant notes, Merlot- smooth tannins, Areni- elegance.

FOOD PAIRING: Filet of beef, pork tenderloin, gorgonzola.

SERVING TEMPERATURE: 18°C

CONSULTING WINEMAKER: Jean-Baptiste Soula

Takar. Areni Red Dry Wine

ORIGIN: Vayots Dzor region

GRAPE: Areni

HARVEST DATE: Early October

CLIMATE: Continental climate. Vineyards are situated at the altitude of 1200 meters above sea level.

YIELD: 55 hl/ha

WINEMAKING: The grapes are hand-harvested at the peak of their maturity and transferred to the estate in small boxes in refrigerator trucks. Last strict sorting on the selection table during grape reception. Two weeks of alcoholic fermentation at the temperature between 26°C to 28°C in stainless steel tanks. One month of maceration.

TASTING NOTES: The wine has a cherry red colour with purple hint. The nose evokes pleasant spiciness (vanilla, licorice, overtones of pepper and clove) with cherry and blackberry on the background. The palate is precise with good tannins and nice structure.

FOOD PAIRING: Lamb dishes, meats in sauce, roast poultry, soft cheeses, berry pies.

SERVING TEMPERATURE: 18°C

CONSULTING WINEMAKER: Jean-Baptiste Soula

Yerevan 782. B.C. Areni, Karmrahyut Red Dry Wine

ORIGIN: Vayots Dzor and Aragatsotn regions

GRAPE: Areni 65%, Karmrahyut 35%

HARVEST DATE: End September, early October

CLIMATE: Continental climate. Vineyards are situated at altitudes of 1000 – 1200 meters above sea level.

YIELD: 65 hl/ha

WINEMAKING: Manual harvest. Two weeks of fermentation at the temperature between 26°C to 28°C in stainless steel tanks and two weeks of maceration.

TASTING NOTES: Ruby red color, delicate dark cherry aroma. The mouth is juicy, fresh and well-balanced.

FOOD PAIRING: Ideal for meats and cheeses.

SERVING TEMPERATURE: 16 °С

CONSULTING WINEMAKER: Jean-Baptiste Soula

The Wine Travel Awards community is happy to welcome a new member. “ARMENIA WINE” Winery and Vineyards becomes a nominee for the 2023-2024 edition reinforcing a common effort of the Armenian wine industry in promoting their country as a magnificent enogastronomic destination. The guests of the WTA Ceremony at the London Wine Fair had a […]

Great news from Zlaten Rozhen, the WTA nominee from Bulgaria (Category: The Visiting Card of the country): this wonderful winery has gained 3 medals from the recent Concours Mondial de Bruxelles 2023 Red and White Wine tasting! The success is even more tremendous, considering that 2 out of 3 medals won by our nominee are Golds, and one is Grand Gold!

«These coveted and prestigious awards were given to our wines, but congratulations go to our entire close-knit team who work with a lot of love and knowledge at the vineyards and at the winery! Special ovation for the chief oenologist Dimitar Petkov!!!» —  Zlaten Rozhen posted on their Facebook page. 

The gold medals were awarded to Sandan Misket Parallel 41 vintage 2022 – the wine created from a local variety, speaking prominently of a specific local terroir, and to Cabernet Franc Parallel 41 vintage 2019 — a new release which the winery calls a successful «debut».

The highest trophy — Grand Gold Medal — was awarded to Cabernet Sauvignon Exclusive lot 2017, a pre-release wine by Zlaten Rozhen. The winemakers were patiently waiting for it to unfold its potential, and it performed brilliantly at the CBM Red and White Wine tasting 2023.

Some important facts to mention in the context:

• only 87 out of nearly 7,500 wines from around the world have been awarded the Grand Gold Medal in CBM Red and White Wine tasting 2023;
• Zlaten Rozhen Cabernet Sauvignon Exclusive lot 2017 is one of the 3 Bulgarian wines awarded the Grand Gold Medal in this year‘s session.

Well done, Zlaten Rozhen, and warm congratulations from the WTA team!

For those who would be interested to visit Zlaten Rozhen winery and taste their award-winning wines, here’s some useful info. Zlaten Rozhen is located in the village of Kapatovo, near the town of Melnik in the famous Struma Valley wine region. It was established in 2010 and is continuously growing and developing throughout the years. In 2017 the owners of Zlaten Rozhen acquired another local winery with its vineyards, which made them one of the largest vinegrowers and winemakers in the region. Currently Zlaten Rozhen owns 800 acres of vineyards, growing both local varieties like Broadleaved Melnik (known also as Shiroka Melnik), Melnik 55 and Rubin, and the classics Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. They also have plantations with some non-typical varieties for the region, such as Sangiovese and Nebiolo. 

The wine cellar is open for visitors every day from 10 to 18 h. On the spot guests may choose between 6 types of wine tastings. Zlaten Rozhen team can also organize a tailored tasting according to your taste. The tour around the cellar is included.

Enjoy the tour of amazing Bulgarian wines!

Great news from Zlaten Rozhen, the WTA nominee from Bulgaria (Category: The Visiting Card of the country): this wonderful winery has gained 3 medals from the recent Concours Mondial de Bruxelles 2023 Red and White Wine tasting! The success is even more tremendous, considering that 2 out of 3 medals won by our nominee are […]

Quite recently in his interview to Drimks+ Giacomo Pondini, CEO of one of the prominent DOCGs of Piedmont, Consorzio dell’Asti, has once again confirmed the efficiency of the marketing strategy that the media group chose a dozen years ago, and on which the Wine Travel Awards project is based: wine tourism is becoming the most powerful tool of promotion in the world of wine. Its potential is so strong that it operates even in the territories where military operations are taking place, such as the unbreakable Ukraine. This, of course, is possible due to unique features of the national character of Ukrainians, their faith and optimism, allowing them even today, despite daily missile attacks, to plan their peaceful future, preparing to develop wine tourism and welcome guests.

It is for this reason that the ITC project “Promoting small and medium enterprises of the fruit and vegetable sector to foreign markets and their inclusion in value-added chains” together with Per Karlsson, a well-known wine writer and expert on wine roads, a member of the Wine Travel Awards jury, developed a series of webinars under the title of “Development of wine tourism in Ukraine”. This interesting collaboration was initiated by Iryna Bystrytska, the WTA jury member. We are glad to admit that WTA has once again served its main purpose: connecting all active and advanced members of the community in networking, collaborations and business initiatives.

The speaker of the wine tourism webinars for Ukrainians is Per Karlsson, co-founder of the BKWine AB Travel company, which he manages together with his wife, Britt Karlsson (Britt Karlsson, by the way, is the WTA winner in the Top Guide category this year). For more than twenty years, BKWine Tours has been successfully engaged in organizing special wine tours. The company organizes private and corporate wine tours to European countries – France, Italy, Spain, Austria, Portugal, as well as to South Africa, Chile, Argentina and New Zealand.

Per Karlsson is one of the most experienced authors in the world of wine. Together with Britt Karlsson he has published more than twelve books on wine, winemaking, wine tourism and wine regions. Their books have been awarded several prizes in Swedish and international book competitions: the Gastronomic Academy of Sweden, the International Organization of Grapes and Wine – OIV, Gourmand Sweden and Gourmand International. Per and Britt’s reviews are regularly published in two languages in BKWine Magazine, a popular online wine magazine in the wine industry, and their articles appear regularly in Forbes.com, Drinks.ua and other wine media.

We invite Ukrainian winemakers to take part in the seminars due to be held by Per Karlsson. Those present will have the opportunity to learn how to build the infrastructure of wine tourism and what pitfalls they should be prepared for. Per will share his experience gained while organizing wine tours around the world: in France, Italy, Spain, South Africa, New Zealand, Chile, Argentina, etc, focusing on good things and warning against potential mistakes.

Registration required (please fill the form by the link: https://forms.gle/1z7RpwhtBcz6wvT46)

• What is wine tourism and why is it important (an introduction)
  • Motivation and drivers. Why do it?
  • Economic effects
  • Different kinds of objectives with wine tourism

• Different wine tourisms, different wine tourists
  • Different kinds of wine tourism. From small to big
  • Different kinds of wine tourist
  • Planning for wine tourism? Or planning too much?

• Practicalities, how can a small winery start or do wine tourism
  • How can a small producer be successful in wine tourism? How to start 1-2-3.
  • Starting small
  • Who does what?
  • Investments? Or not?
  • Managing the customer relationship for leverage
  • Marketing the wine tourism offer

• Wine tourism is also collaboration
  • Hotels, restaurants, food producers, culture
  • Government and municipalities has a role in wine tourism
  • Collaborative organisations

Quite recently in his interview to Drimks+ Giacomo Pondini, CEO of one of the prominent DOCGs of Piedmont, Consorzio dell’Asti, has once again confirmed the efficiency of the marketing strategy that the media group chose a dozen years ago, and on which the Wine Travel Awards project is based: wine tourism is becoming the most […]

In the framework of the WinExpo Georgia, Wine Travel Awards (WTA) and Drinks+ exhibition partner, the international wine competition traditionally took place. The winners were selected by a jury composed of Georgian and foreign specialists. 

WinExpo Georgia, WTA and Drinks+ exhibition partner, is a renowned exhibition in the industry. It has a long-standing tradition of providing Georgian wine producers with excellent opportunities to showcase their products to both local and international audiences. Despite the challenges posed by the global pandemic, the interest in Georgian wine continues to grow annually, contributing to the exhibition’s increasing scale and prominence.

WinExpo Georgia 2023 was held on June 2-4 in the 11th pavilion and outdoor spaces of Expo Georgia. 200 companies participated in the exhibition. WinExpo Georgia creates a highly productive working environment. Its significance in the industry is widely recognized, benefiting both the local and international markets. Notably, WinExpo Georgia stands out as the sole exhibition in Georgia that not only showcases products like packaging materials, fertilizers, viticulture and winemaking equipment, nurseries, glass, and accessories but also presents various services.

Moreover, WinExpo Georgia serves as a gathering place for wine enthusiasts seeking to taste the finest wines and alcoholic beverages, meet winemakers, and stay informed about industry news, innovations, and emerging trends.

The WTA and Drinks+ team participated at the WinExpo Georgia with its own stand where we gladly introduced visitors to the opportunities our project opens and to the progressive and innovative community it represents.

At the stand in Georgia, in addition to the WTA Guide Special Edition, the corporate newspaper Menu, dedicated to Georgia, was presented in English and Georgian, which the Drinks+ media group publishes in traditional collaboration with the U.S. Meat Export Federation.

On 2 June, our team held the WTA Celebration in honour of Georgian winners of the 2022-2023 edition. In the framework of the event, a walk-around tasting of exemplary wines produced by our Georgian nominees and partners was organized in a pairing with premium American beef (thanks to the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF), sponsor of the celebration). SHUMI Winery, the winner in the Visiting card of the country / Must visit, Progressive Approach, Art & History Object categories, presented their wines, as well as a unique alcoholic beverage, Zigu. GWS, another significant winemaking company from Georgia, introduced their wine collection to the guests of the tasting, while Chateau Mukhrani, the WTA public voting winner and one of the best wineries of Georgia, impressed our guests with their premium wines.

On the next day, WinExpo Georgia participants and visitors gathered together in order to discover the names of the winners of the prestigious International Wine Award, which has been successfully held for 13 years. This award significantly contributes to promoting Georgia both domestically and internationally. The winners are determined through blind tastings conducted by Georgian and foreign Masters of Wine, sommeliers, and wine experts.

11 members of the jury from 7 countries devoted their time and expertise to the competition this year. Leading the competition was Tim Atkin, an esteemed British Master of Wine, broadcaster, and author at respected publications like Decanter. Besides, other jury members were Taylor Parsons – sommelier, marketer, restaurateur; Aurore Jeaudy – oenologue, winemaker, member of the sommelier association of France; Felicity Carter – journalist and magazine editor, consultant in wine export affairs and WTA Jury for the second consecutive year; Chan Jun Park – wine writer and educator, Vice president of Korea International Sommelier Association; Matt Wilkin – Master Sommelier, educator, restaurateur; Anastassia Roncoletta – sommelier, wine expert, and international wine marketer; Mikheil Meskhi – Wine Expert, Consultant-Oenologist, Doctor of Technical Science; Anna Godabrelidze – Engineering technician, oenologue, director of the faculty of Viticulture and oenology of the Agricultural University of Georgia, State Tasting Commission Chairwoman at the Ministry of Agriculture of Georgia; Levan Mekhuzla – Oenologue, chairman of the National Wine Agency of Georgia; Giorgi Dakisvhili – oenologue, wine expert, doctor of food technology, professional Member of the American Society for Enology and Viticulture.

Also, on the sidelines of the exhibition, you could see such notable personalities of the wine world as Robert Joseph, author of the “Wine Travel Guide to the World”, an editorial consultant for Meininger’s Wine Business International and, again, a judge of the WTA. Which, of course, shows the high interest of the world in Georgian wine.

The contest evaluates wines in eight categories, and the top performers receive gold, silver, and bronze medals. During two days, more than 250 types of wine from 80 companies were tasted. The winners were identified in the following wine categories: white dry, white semi-sweet, white qvevri, red dry, red dry qvevri, red semi-sweet, and rosé.

As part of WinExpo 2023, 80 bronze, 67 silver, 9 gold and 3 trophy medals (highest award) were awarded. The wines of the following companies won gold medals in the international wine competition: Khmelos Winery, Lomiskareli, Mildiani Family Winery, Gida Wine, Marani, Chelti Winery. Mildiani Family Winery and Chelti Winery won the highest award-trophy.

Congratulations to all the winners! This year, WTA and WinExpo Georgia have created a wonderful symbiosis, bringing more victories to Georgia and contributing to its recognition and promotion as a great enogastronomic tourism destination.

In the framework of the WinExpo Georgia, Wine Travel Awards (WTA) and Drinks+ exhibition partner, the international wine competition traditionally took place. The winners were selected by a jury composed of Georgian and foreign specialists.  WinExpo Georgia, WTA and Drinks+ exhibition partner, is a renowned exhibition in the industry. It has a long-standing tradition of […]