Gastronomy and Wine Portal

In its sixth year, Wine Paris demonstrated record participant and visitor numbers, along with a range of key trends, including strengthening global wine tourism through a strategic partnership with the Wine Travel Awards.

This year, the Wine Paris exhibition solidified its position as a leading global event in the wine and spirits industry, attracting a record 5,500+ exhibitors and 52,622 visitors, 45% of whom were international guests from 154 countries. It’s no coincidence that the first day of the forum was held under the slogan “All roads lead to Paris.” Despite global challenges, such as political instability, declining alcohol consumption, and environmental issues, the exhibition became an important source of inspiration and innovation for the future of the industry. Even the numbers speak for themselves: the exhibition area increased by 80% compared to last year (116 international pavilions), and attendance from leading buyers representing key markets grew by 35%.

Thus, it can be acknowledged that over the past six years, Vinexposium has risen from a respected, but national, communication platform to an international level, becoming an important economic and political meeting point with participation from global alcohol market operators, French ministers, officials, members of parliament, and over 30 official government and public delegations. Today, both market observers and competitors – leaders in exhibition centers – unanimously highlight the rapid rise in popularity of Wine Paris as a key driver for the industry, fostering collaboration, constructive discussions, and creating opportunities for business development and growth in trade relations.

This year’s event featured dozens of conferences with experts, including sessions from the French Federation of Wine and Spirits Exporters (FEVS), OIV, Moët Hennessy, and the Wine Origins Alliance. Additionally, the Academy held 250 presentations from international experts across 130 sessions. Vinexposium also launched the “Voice of the Industry” platform, providing valuable insights from key industry players.

The popular Be Spirits section also showed significant growth: 34 producing countries, 37% more than in 2024, and over 300 exhibitors. Rodolphe Lameyse, CEO of Vinexposium, summarized the exhibition’s results, stating: “In times of uncertainty, economic crises, and the loss of meaning, isolationism is not an option. By combining strengths and promoting innovation, involving all industry players, and linking the economic and political spheres, we successfully implemented our strategy. Over the years, Wine Paris has established itself in the global consciousness as a vital source of influence. More than ever, the 2025 exhibition played a decisive role for national and international stakeholders in the wine and spirits sector.”

Here’s a reminder of the upcoming events in 2025: Vinexpo America (May 7-8 in Miami), Vinexpo Asia (May 27-29 in Singapore), Vinexpo India (October 11-12 in Mumbai), and World Bulk Wine Exhibition (November 24-25 in Amsterdam). By bringing together exhibitors and visitors at several events throughout the year, Vinexposium acts as an ambassador for the industry, focused on expanding sales. This is why its flagship forum, Wine Paris, was nominated in the prestigious Wine Travel Awards category “Enogastronomic Events/Event of the Year,” further confirming its role as a key player in the wine and wine tourism sectors. Voting continues throughout March, and every supporter of the Paris exhibition has a chance to vote for their favorite.

Once again, Wine Paris demonstrated a fruitful strategic partnership and collaboration with WTA and the award’s founder, Communication Media Group Drinks+, strengthening its influence on the global wine tourism landscape. The Wine Travel Awards Guide, published annually and successfully distributed at Wine Paris 2025, became an important resource showcasing leading trends, key ideas, and significant achievements by members of the WTA community.

To gain deeper insights, we asked our strategic partners and members of the WTA community for their thoughts on the exhibition. Here’s what they had to say.

Robert Joseph, a seminal figure in wine journalism and a trusted member of the Wine Travel Awards jury since its inaugural year, shared his perspective:
“Wine Paris was an extremely successful event for me as an exhibitor—particularly with le Grand Noir in Hall 7.2 and K’AVSHIRI in Hall 4. We saw a range of high-quality visitors in the Wines Unearthed area of Hall 4 where we were pouring K’AVSHIRI. From conversations with other exhibitors, the only complaints came from those who hadn’t scheduled meetings before the fair. The only minor issue was the relative shortage of Asian visitors, likely due to Chinese New Year and the growing success of regional events.”

Vladimer Kublashvili, from Winery Khareba, reflected on his experience:
“Winery Khareba has been part of VinExpo exhibitions for many years, and this year’s Wine Paris was particularly impressive. The organization was exceptional, and the convenience for participants was outstanding. The exhibition attracted producers from diverse countries, and the event offered masterclasses, tastings, and insightful discussions. For us, it was a rewarding experience with fruitful meetings and tastings. Wine Paris continues to be an invaluable platform for showcasing our wines and connecting with professionals from across the globe.”

Salome Lomsadze, Commercial Project Manager and a representative of SHUMI Winery, which has been WTA Winner & Nominee and is this campaign`s nominne in the

• Enogastronomic Events/Magnet of the Region
• The Visiting Card of the Country/Must Visit
• The Visiting Card of the Country/Art & History Object
• The Visiting Card of the Country/Brand – the Visiting Card of the Country
• The Visiting Card of the Country/Progressive Approach
• Education in Enotourism/Cultural Mission

shared:
“Wine Paris 2025 was an outstanding event showcasing the evolving global wine industry. The fair provided an excellent platform for producers to connect with international buyers, media, and influencers. We saw a surge of interest in Georgian wines, especially those from the Kakheti region. The exhibition proved highly fruitful commercially, with new partnerships and agreements that will expand our international reach. It’s been an excellent platform for highlighting Georgian wines and forging valuable connections in the global wine market.”

Dr. Ricardo F. Nunez, Head of the international group of companies Vinos de La Luz:

The arrival of COVID-19, which paralyzed the world and radically changed many of the habits humanity had been cultivating for years, turned out to be a snapshot of what was already happening in the world of international wine fairs. Prowein in Düsseldorf was the undisputed leader, London Wine was a shadow of its legendary past, VINEXPO in Bordeaux was disappearing, Vinitaly in Verona had become a championship among Italians visiting each other’s stands, Alimentaria in Barcelona shed the wine sector to return to the food-focused fair its name implied, and exhibitions had begun to emerge in Asia, which still failed to fully convince Western exhibitors, even though they were driven by major global wine media outlets. If there’s one phrase about the tragedy of that virus that seems made for wine fairs, it’s that “nothing was the same after the pandemic.” In these past three years, everyone has made some kind of move to step away from the position in which they were caught in that snapshot, each for different reasons. PROWEIN expanded its surface and internal spaces – crowds are no longer well-regarded since the pandemic – and as a result, increased stand prices, once again driving up already expensive hotel rates in a city that, additionally, is boring. But for an absolute leader with no competition in sight, price wasn’t a deciding factor: countries had no alternative but to attend a fair focused exclusively on business between supply and demand, making exhibitors and visitors feel that anyone not at Prowein simply didn’t exist. That need to be seen and to see others remains in 2025, but over the past three years, it has slowly been giving way to the result of the smartest move by a player that had lost ground due to location, event duration, and internal and external conflicts: Vinexpo. Between 2019 and 2022, the French made a series of mergers: the Vinisud show merged with Vinivision to create Wine Paris, which then merged with Vinexpo to become “Wine Paris & Vinexpo Paris” (although the name Vinexpo will soon fade to allow Wine Paris to grow). Today, Wine Paris is the main competitor to Prowein, partly replicating Prowein’s model, but adding some very interesting internal elements such as five thematic segments – Wines, Spirits, New Wineries, Organic Wines, and the Tech sector – and using as its venue hyper-connected Paris, not because the wine world needs it, but because it modernizes almost daily to serve the millions of tourists arriving from all over the world, most of whom are unaware that a wine fair is taking place there in February. Wine Paris began timidly, with imbalances between local and foreign producers, which justified the opinions of those who said one should wait and see how it evolved before deciding to exhibit. And the decision to go or not go as an exhibitor is not a minor one. Big producers of major brands can’t go with a tiny stand: the association between global brands and large stands is immediate, and everyone, at some point while walking the fair, “measures” them with their own perception of what that brand should do. But it’s also a big decision for medium or small producers, who need to take that step toward internationalizing their products. Many who attend are subsidized by organizations from their own countries, but not all cover airfare and accommodation, and this part of going or not going often ends with the decision not to attend, because even though Paris is cheaper than Düsseldorf, the cost of two people attending still represents a budget that can’t be easily reflected in the wine’s price. In 2025, Wine Paris has outdone itself in every aspect that exhibitors or visitors can perceive. It’s no longer a labyrinth to move from one pavilion to another, there were no long queues to enter, there was more staff available to assist visitors, French producers bet more strongly on their fair, they further diversified the themes of their conferences – now with better speakers – and an important detail: many countries significantly expanded their presence, as if they had decided to show their acceptance of the new format. Many of us agree that – at least this year – the traditionally self-centered French attitude of presenting France as the center of the wine world has changed. It’s almost logical that the gathering of many exhibitors and the presence of new countries in the International sector, combined with the public discourse around the uprooting of French vineyards to maintain inflated prices, and the retreat of Champagne in international markets in favor of cheaper and more popular sparkling wines, have led them to realize that the wine world today neither begins nor ends in France. Instead, it shares the spotlight with traditional players based on vineyard area or volume, and it is no longer heresy to taste a Champagne, a Cava, and an English sparkling wine (which claim to be superior) side by side. And something very important: both events now give equal importance to Spirits, which continue to grow in both space and innovation. Among these novelties is the visibility given to “mixology,” which is the foundation of the “on trade” spirits market and fills the world’s bar agendas with competitions and demonstrations. We’ll have to see now if Vinitaly picks up the challenge and opens its international pavilion with a level of space and visibility it currently lacks. They say they will. We’ll see soon in Verona. Spain has separated food in general from wine as a beverage and has regained its wine fair identity, which had been lost to Alimentaria, through the resurgence of the Barcelona Wine Week. They made the right choice. It was the first international fair of the year and filled the halls with people. But it remains a Spanish beverage fair, open to professional visitors from around the world who either come on their own or are brought in. Still, they’ve done a good job. Not many people have heard of or remember the London Wine Fair. It used to be a must-attend event for top palates, producers, and distributors. Today, it’s run by a highly professional and generous team. Through them, producers from Georgia, Armenia, Moldova, and Lebanon came to London to showcase wines that would otherwise be very difficult to discover. The London Fair’s attitude toward Ukraine deserves a separate paragraph, opening its doors to young producers grouped in young associations and freely offering space and time. Great Britain has been and is a very important consumer market for wines from several European and Latin American countries, and they have a significant number of professional opinion-formers known to all wine lovers.

Amid these struggles to be the “leading fair,” others are emerging that begin as competitions but become tastings of all participating beverages when it’s time to award prizes. They are either regional or product-specific (rosé wine, for example), or for sparkling wines or mixed categories. These are not commercial events, but the producers who enter the competitions and then share their products with visitors hope to eventually play in the league of Prowein or Wine Paris. Maybe one day they will. In the meantime, these competition-tastings offer them visibility and confidence in their product. In the second half of the year in Italy, there’s a clear example: CERVIM, an association that brings together producers of “extreme” or “heroic” wines – ither because of the challenging geography or their own personal stories. There you learn how much artisanal Pisco Peru produces or that on the Island of Fire in Cape Verde – home to an active volcano – they make volcanic red wines that are, indeed, heroic. By the time you read this, Prowein 2025 will be open or just finished. Let’s take note of what’s good and what needs improvement. Everyone has room to grow, and we should support them – because the ones who benefit are us: the wine producers and consumers, a brotherhood with a documented 7,000-year history.

Florence Authier Meuric, wine expert, WTA Nominee in the Ambassador of the Year category, reflected on her participation:
“Wine Paris has grown into a dynamic, international experience. This year, I organized a shared stand with diverse winemakers and estates – 12 different winemakers and châteaux – which exceeded my expectations. The diversity and international reach of the stand fostered an exceptional synergy, making the event ideal for high-quality exchanges. The stand brought together French winemakers from different regions, Spanish producers from Rioja, British exhibitors offering canned wine, an Italian estate located at the foot of Mount Etna, as well as spirits producers. This diversity created a particularly dynamic environment conducive to networking. The only downside was the location, which was somewhat difficult to access due to poor signage, causing us to miss a few scheduled meetings.”

Why is Wine Paris generating so much enthusiasm?
Several factors explain the growing success of this event. Paris, as an iconic city, naturally attracts wine professionals thanks to its outstanding selection of restaurants, hotels, and entertainment options. Additionally, the capital is extremely well-connected by transport, making it easy for buyers to attend the event and enjoy the city after the show. Wine Paris also holds the advantage of being the first major international wine fair of the year. Until this 2025 edition, I had only attended as a visitor, and I must say that the organization has improved tremendously. From an exhibitor’s perspective, many tools are available, including networking platforms, a generous quota of exhibitor badges, and visitor invitations – all valuable assets that maximize visibility and business opportunities. Finally, for French professionals, Wine Paris offers a logistical advantage, as exhibiting and organizing participation is much easier when based locally.

Florence Meuric concluded:
“A promising event with room for improvement. To sum up, Wine Paris is an unmissable event—dynamic, high-quality, and held in one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It provides early insight into the year’s key trends, thanks to the diversity of attendees and industry exchanges. Of course, some aspects still need improvement, particularly the signage, which could be optimized to facilitate navigation and prevent missed appointments. However, the overall impression is highly positive. See you in 2026 for another promising edition!”

Wine Paris 2025 has undoubtedly proven its significance in the global wine tourism and wine industry sectors, providing valuable platforms for collaboration, innovation, and new business opportunities. The event continues to strengthen its role as a key meeting point for industry professionals and enthusiasts worldwide.

As the Wine Paris 2025 event continues to captivate industry professionals, we are excited to see its lasting impact on the global wine and tourism markets. Together with the Wine Travel Awards, Wine Paris continues to showcase and nurture the connections between the world’s wine producers and the international wine tourism community, paving the way for future successes.

Looking forward to more remarkable moments in Wine Paris 2026 and beyond.

See you at Prowein. My booth is 10J69.

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

⇒ Every like is taken as a toast!

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uadrinks
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drinks.ua/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/drinks-media-group

Photos: Social media pages and https://wineparis.com/

In its sixth year, Wine Paris demonstrated record participant and visitor numbers, along with a range of key trends, including strengthening global wine tourism through a strategic partnership with the Wine Travel Awards. This year, the Wine Paris exhibition solidified its position as a leading global event in the wine and spirits industry, attracting a […]

From March 16–18, Düsseldorf, Germany, will host ProWein 2025, the world’s largest trade fair for wine and spirits. We have already announced that on the opening day, Wine Travel Awards (WTA), in partnership with Drinks+ Media Group, will welcome guests and participants to an expert session titled “Introducing the Wine Consumer of the Future.”

Now, we are pleased to share that we have also prepared a remarkable closing event. On the final day of ProWein 2025, March 18 at 4:00 PM, Wine Travel Awards and the international wine group Vinos de la Luz, together with leading Ukrainian winemakers, will discuss the resilience and growth of Ukraine’s wine industry amidst ongoing Russian aggression. The event will also present exceptional wines crafted from Ukraine’s indigenous and local grape varieties.

Presentation & Tasting:

“Paradoxes of Ukraine: Winemaking and Tourism in Wartime”
When: March 18, 2025, 4:00–5:00 PM
Where: Hall 12, D02

This exclusive tasting will feature both renowned, award-winning Ukrainian wineries and emerging producers who have already earned prestigious national and international accolades.

Tasting Lineup:

• Welcome drink – Grand Admiral Brut Nature 2018 by 46 Parallel Wine Group, Gold Medal, MUNDUS VINI Spring Tasting 2025
• Big Wines Telti-Kuruk 2023
• Beykush Telti-Kuruk 2023
• Kolonist Sukholymanske 2024
• Villa Tinta Premium Collection Odesa Black 2022, Gold Medal, MUNDUS VINI Spring Tasting 2025
• Big Wines 2022 Big Wines Big Art Odesa Black Ivan Marchuk Limited Edition (Grand Gold and Best of Show Ukraine MUNDUS VINI Spring Tasting 2025).

This tasting is made possible due to the generous support of Dr. Ricardo Núñez, owner of Vinos de La Luz. Dr. Núñez will address the guests, along with Rodrigo de Casas, President of the OIV Committee on Culture, Education, and Heritage.

The tasting will be moderated by Nataliia Burlachenko, CEO and owner of Big Wines, a Ukrainian winery and distribution company that is part of the Vinos de La Luz international wine group, globally recognized for its philanthropy, support of innovative wine projects, and investment in Ukraine.

Pre-registration is recommended via the following link.

More Ukrainian wines will be available for tasting at the Wines of Ukraine booth (Hall 9, Stand A89).

Additionally, Wine Travel Awards will unveil the latest WTA Guide 2023–2024, featuring a print and digital catalog of nominees.

See you at the Wine Travel Awards events!

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

⇒ Every like is taken as a toast!

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uadrinks
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drinks.ua/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/drinks-media-group

From March 16–18, Düsseldorf, Germany, will host ProWein 2025, the world’s largest trade fair for wine and spirits. We have already announced that on the opening day, Wine Travel Awards (WTA), in partnership with Drinks+ Media Group, will welcome guests and participants to an expert session titled “Introducing the Wine Consumer of the Future.” Now, we […]

In  just a few weeks, on March 16-18, the German Düsseldorf will be welcoming the visitors and participants of ProWein 2025, the biggest international  trade fair for wines and spirits.

ProWein is the most important meeting point for the international industry professionals, providing boundless opportunities for business contacts, exchange of opinions, sharing expertise, signing new contracts, discovering new wine regions and unique wines, and, of course, enjoying the friendly and festive atmosphere of the global wine and spirits event. 

So what’s on the program? Drinks+ Media Group, the long-term media partner for ProWein, made a review of some innovations and activities offered by the organizers of the fair this year.

Exciting program lures international wine and spirits industry

Photo: © Messe Düsseldorf

When March arrives, Düsseldorf transforms into the epicenter of the global wine and spirits industry as ProWein takes over the city. For six days, the Rhine metropolis will be buzzing with successful business deals, high-energy events, and the latest industry trends.

The excitement kicks off early with ProWein goes City on Thursday, March 13 — an evening program inviting wine lovers to explore exclusive tastings in restaurants, bars, and wine shops across the city.

Then, on Saturday, March 15, the spotlight shifts to Meininger’s Wine Conference. Hosted in collaboration with ProWein, this annual event delivers valuable insights into emerging trends and the future of the wine industry. This year’s theme, “The Best Ways to Sell Wine,” brings together top experts to discuss key challenges and opportunities shaping the sector. The conference will conclude with the prestigious Meininger Awards, celebrating excellence in the industry.

Three dynamic days at ProWein

Under the theme “Discover the Taste of Tomorrow,” ProWein 2025 will once again showcase an unparalleled selection of wines and spirits from over 60 countries. From March 16–18, exhibitors will present the latest innovations and global trends in the industry.Nine of the eleven exhibition halls will showcase an extensive selection of wines from all major wine-growing regions across the globe. Meanwhile, two dedicated halls under the ProSpirits label will offer decision-makers in retail and gastronomy a curated selection of spirits from around the world.

Beyond the outstanding exhibitor line-up, ProWein delivers a top-tier supporting program throughout all three days. Highlights include the brand-new Business Forum with insightful sessions, diverse exhibitor-led activities, exclusive tastings at the Masterclass Forum, the urban gastronomy experience in the Gastro-Area featuring Michelin-starred chefs, the Champagne Lounge, the special ProWein Zero showcase, a presentation by the Union des Grands Crus de Bordeaux, the Packaging & Design special exhibition, and Organic World — just to name a few.

ProWein Vibes for Wine Enthusiasts

While trade professionals engage in business and networking on the fairgrounds, the “ProWein goes city” program brings excitement to wine lovers across Düsseldorf. From March 13 to 18, the city will be buzzing with wine and spirits tastings, exclusive restaurant menus, and cultural events. With more than 100 events planned, it’s the perfect opportunity for consumers to explore the world of wine. More info here. With this dynamic and diverse offering, ProWein 2025 reaffirms its status as the must-attend event for all wine and spirits industry professionals. For details and tickets, visit www.prowein.com.

Fair Match: Smart Networking for a More Productive ProWein Experience

    Photo: ProWein

ProWein introduces Fair Match, an innovative digital matchmaking tool designed to streamline connections between trade visitors and exhibitors. This platform optimizes trade fair visits by suggesting tailored business contacts, enabling direct appointment scheduling, and offering an intuitive chat function for seamless communication.

As the leading international meeting point for the wine and spirits industry, ProWein is committed to enhancing networking efficiency. For the first time, Fair Match will be available via the ProWein Portal and ProWein App, allowing participants to connect selectively based on their professional interests and product focus. By analyzing visitor preferences and exhibitor offerings, the tool recommends relevant matches, making every interaction more valuable.

Fair Match is packed with features designed to enhance the trade fair experience. Users can save business contacts for future engagement, schedule meetings directly within the platform, communicate effortlessly through the integrated chat function, search and filter exhibitors, products, industries, and professional roles to find the most relevant partners.

“Digitalization is a key driver of successful trade fairs. Fair Match creates a smart, intuitive platform where trade visitors and exhibitors can connect efficiently, helping them meet the right partners, discover relevant products, and maximize their time at ProWein,” says Peter Schmitz, Director of ProWein.

Designed with user-friendliness in mind, Fair Match is instantly available to anyone registered on the ProWein website — no additional sign-ups required. A personalized profile allows users to specify their interests, products sought or offered, and industry affiliation, ensuring the best possible networking experience.

Click here to access Fair Match (visitors).

Pairing food and wine at ProWein

Photo: © Messe Düsseldorf

• Food & Wine at ProWein 2025

This year the fair will place a special focus on the theme of food and wine pairing this year. The food service Lounge, “urban gastronomy by #asktoni,” will be dedicated to this theme, and the diverse supporting program will also highlight the perfect pairing of food and wine through various events.

The “urban gastronomy Lounge by #asktoni” will return in 2025, continuing its role as a key destination for restaurateurs, from newcomers to seasoned professionals. This year’s focus will be Food & Wine Pairing. In four workshops each day, host Toni Askitis (#asktoni) will demonstrate in an engaging manner how food and wine come together to create unforgettable taste experiences.

• New Live Cooking Concept

For the first time, the urban gastronomy Lounge will be presented by METRO, with a new concept developed in collaboration with the international food wholesaler based in Düsseldorf. Dr. Steffen Greubel, CEO of METRO AG, and Martin Behle, Chief Horeca Officer, have secured the participation of renowned chefs Björn Freitag, Alina Meissner-Bebrout, and Bobby Bräuer, who will each prepare exciting dishes live on different days during ProWein. Toni Askitis, named the best sommelier of 2024 by Rolling Pin magazine, will select the accompanying wines. Registration for individual workshops is not required.

Workshop Program at Urban Gastronomy by #asktoni

• How to ProWein: Practical tips for both beginners and professionals on making the most of ProWein.
• Food Pairing Basics: Introduction to the fundamentals of food and wine pairing.
• Food & Wine Pairing: Chefs will prepare dishes live while guests sample wine pairings from vintners.
• Music in a Glass: A fusion of wine and music, featuring vintners, DJs, and chefs.
• Wine.Match: A live, interactive session where matching dishes for selected wines are developed with audience participation.

• Why Food & Wine Pairing?

As a focal point of the food service industry, the perfect pairing of food and wine is the cornerstone of any exceptional culinary experience. At an international trade fair like ProWein, this topic is not just a trend but an essential aspect of the wine and food service sector. “Food & wine pairing offers significant potential for the wine and food service industry, as it goes beyond the simple presentation of products. It combines the sensory experiences of food and wine into a harmonious whole that evokes emotions and creates lasting memories. This art of pairing is not only enriching for guests but also a key differentiator in a highly competitive market,” says Peter Schmitz, Director of ProWein.

Food & Wine Pairing Across ProWein

In addition to the urban gastronomy Lounge, numerous other areas of ProWein will offer inspiration for food and wine pairing, including seminars on Wines of Portugal, ICEX/Wine from Spain, Palatinate wines, and ICE/Vini d’Italia. A special highlight on ProWein Sunday at 11:30 am will be a food & wine pairing event led by Curly, host of the Terroir & Adiletten podcast. At Pavillon France, Stand 10F120 (Le Forum #BonjourProWein), Curly will explore the perfect wine and food pairings.

WTA and Drinks+ Media Group hosting two events at ProWein

On March 16, the prestigious opening day of ProWein 2025, Wine Travel Awards (WTA), an international wine tourism initiative representing members from 44 countries, in collaboration with Drinks+ Media Group, will present a dynamic event as part of ProWein’s meticulously curated educational program: WTA Panel “Sustainable Wine Tourism”.

This session will explore cutting-edge research and practical insights into the evolving demographics of winery visitors and wine consumers worldwide. The panel will be led by Prof. Dr. Prof. h.c. Gergely Szolnoki of Geisenheim University, with another distinguished guest speaker to be announced soon.

On March 18, WTA and Drinks+ are organising the Closing Day Event in collaboration with Wines of Ukraine: “Paradoxes of Ukraine: Winemaking and Tourism in Wartime”.

We will host a compelling presentation and guided tasting of wines from Ukrainian WTA nominees and participants of the Wines of Ukraine national booth. This tasting was made possible thanks to the generous support of Dr. Ricardo Nunez, owner of the international wine group Vinos de La Luz and a passionate advocate for Ukrainian winemaking.

Save the dates!

• WTA Panel: “Sustainable Wine Tourism”

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

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

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

• Exclusive Preview: The WTA Guide 2023–2024

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

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

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

⇒ Every like is taken as a toast!

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uadrinks
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drinks.ua/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/drinks-media-group

In  just a few weeks, on March 16-18, the German Düsseldorf will be welcoming the visitors and participants of ProWein 2025, the biggest international  trade fair for wines and spirits. ProWein is the most important meeting point for the international industry professionals, providing boundless opportunities for business contacts, exchange of opinions, sharing expertise, signing new […]

The Balkans International Wine Competition (BIWC) enters its 14th year with an evolved format, reaffirming its role as a key platform for showcasing the diversity and excellence of Balkan wines. This year, the competition moves to Naoussa, Greece – a region known for its deep-rooted winemaking traditions. The BIWC will be held under the auspices of the Municipality of the Heroic City of Naoussa and will take place from May 28-30, 2025, followed by an exclusive international conference on May 31, 2025.

For over a decade, BIWC has been instrumental in elevating Balkan wines onto the global stage. Igor Lukovic, President of BIWC, highlights the competition’s impact: “BIWC has become a benchmark for the dynamic and evolving wine industry of the Balkans. Year after year, we witness wines that receive their first major recognition here, only to later gain international acclaim. This growth is a testament to the dedication of our team and the meticulous selection process by our panel of world-class judges.”

This year, the Balkans International Wine Competition is nominated for the Wine Travel Awards in the Enogastronomic Events/Event of the Year category.

The competition maintains its core structure, featuring a jury of distinguished wine experts from across the world, carefully evaluating and awarding the best wines from the region.

Hosting BIWC in Naoussa, a place deeply connected to the winemaking heritage of Greece, further strengthens the event’s mission. Nikolaos Koutsogiannis, Mayor of Naoussa, expresses his enthusiasm: “Naoussa has a winemaking heritage that spans centuries, and we are proud to welcome BIWC 2025 to our region. This event will not only highlight our local wines but also reinforce the Balkans’ position as a dynamic and thriving wine region on the global stage.”

Additionally, for the first time, BIWC introduces an international conference under the theme “BALKAN WINE 2040 – Vision & Perspective.” The conference will bring together some of the most influential figures in the wine industry, including top winemakers, marketers, business leaders, and sommeliers, to discuss the future of Balkan wines for the next 15 years. Key topics will include:

• Climate change and the challenges for Balkan winemakers
• The role of indigenous vs. international grape varieties
• Positioning Balkan wines on the global wine scene – marketing strategies and success stories
• Wine tourism in the Balkans – an essential tool for industry growth

Following the conference, a series of exclusive masterclasses will be held, providing valuable insights and expertise to both wine professionals and enthusiasts. Additionally, a wine exhibition will take place, offering the residents and visitors of Naoussa a unique opportunity to explore and taste some of the finest wines from the Balkans.

Additionally, producers will have the opportunity to attend and present their wines to an audience of industry professionals, sommeliers, and wine enthusiasts, creating a valuable networking and promotional platform.

Galina Niforou, Wine MBA and Director of BIWC, emphasizes the importance of this new initiative: “Since its inception, BIWC has been more than a competition – it is a platform for collaboration, education, and market expansion. This conference marks the next step in our mission to create synergy between Balkan winemakers and the global industry. Our goal is to set the course for the future of Balkan wines and solidify their place on the world wine map.”

BIWC 2025 promises to be a landmark edition, celebrating the heritage of Balkan winemaking while shaping its future.

For more details, visit: www.balkanswine.eu

• Mrs. Galina Niforou, Director of BIWC – e-mail: niforou@balkanswine.eu
• Miss Miroslava Naydenova, Communications Manager – e-mail: pr@balkanswine.eu

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

⇒ Every like is taken as a toast!

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uadrinks
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drinks.ua/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/drinks-media-group

The Balkans International Wine Competition (BIWC) enters its 14th year with an evolved format, reaffirming its role as a key platform for showcasing the diversity and excellence of Balkan wines. This year, the competition moves to Naoussa, Greece – a region known for its deep-rooted winemaking traditions. The BIWC will be held under the auspices […]

The winner of the Best Sommelier of Ukraine competition, organized by the Ukrainian Sommelier Association, has been determined.

The world of wine is not just about delicate aromas, refined flavors, and lingering finishes. It is also a test of intellect, discipline, intuition, and true artistry. After a long pause caused by the full-scale invasion, the Best Sommelier of Ukraine competition made its return – proving that even in the darkest times, skill and passion remain unbreakable. This year, the competition was more than just a contest to determine the winner and finalists. Amid the realities of war, it became a test – of unity, resilience, and, ultimately, courage – for the entire Ukrainian sommelier community. And today, without unnecessary pathos, every professional in this field can proudly say: “We are the best!”

A Spectacular Start and an Intense Battle for the Title

This year, the competition took place within the modern walls of the Parkovy Convention and Exhibition Center, where every detail emphasized the prestige and high caliber of the event. The international media partner, Drinks+ communications group, actively supported the initiative, closely followed the confident actions of the experienced organizers, monitored the selection of candidates, and covered the grand finale – continuing to highlight all key moments of the competition. I won’t recount all the twists and turns of the competition, where the country’s top sommeliers showcased their skills. Instead, let’s dive straight into the most exciting part – the grand finale.

From the very first moments, the atmosphere was charged with professionalism, anticipation, and adrenaline. Every stage of the event was meticulously planned and masterfully executed. The evening kicked off with tastings presented by the event’s partners – Marusia Beverages Ukraine and SHABO.

A guided tasting led by SHABO brand ambassador Oleg Antipin captivated guests with an exquisite selection of sparkling wines. Each glass told a story of winemaking mastery, unveiled new trends – such as sparkling wine made from the Telti Kuruk grape – and once again showcased the high level and potential of Ukrainian winemaking.

Hanna Kovalevska, a member of the Ukrainian Sommelier Association and a prominent figure in the national wine industry, presented wines from Château Mukhrani. She skillfully introduced the noble white Goruli Mtsvane and two distinctive Saperavi wines, which impressed guests with their depth of flavor and refined character. Her presentation brought to life the history of the legendary château, echoing centuries of tradition and winemaking artistry passed down through generations.

This was more than just a presentation – it was a true journey into the world of wine harmony, where each sip revealed a new facet of winemaking mastery. Guests enjoyed the wines and expert commentary, while the anticipation among the contestants grew. Everyone was waiting for the resolution of the main intrigue – the announcement of the finalists.

After a short break, the moment arrived. And, to be honest, this year’s top three finalists formed one of the strongest line-ups in all of Drinks+’s history of observing Ukrainian sommelier competitions. The finalists were Ihor Postoiankin, Pavlo Mnukhin, and Olga Hirman. The semi-finalists included Oleksii Bondar (Vinnytsia) and Pavlo Kuznetsov (Odesa). The final stage promised to be anything but dull.

The Final Duel: Tension, Mastery, and the Battle for the Title

The finalists faced a series of rigorous challenges that required not only extensive knowledge but also a high level of skill, quick reflexes, and the ability to perform under intense pressure. Each task was carefully designed (of course – it was developed by true professionals from the ASU leadership!) to reveal the contestants’ best professional qualities and test their ability to navigate complex situations.

The competition was conducted in English and included the following tasks:

• Service under pressure 🙂 and unexpected twists: Two tables, six guests, a personal bar, and just 21 minutes to handle everything – from recommending wines to crafting a cocktail for mixology professionals.
• Blind wine tasting – 6 minutes to describe a wine according to international standards, identify its origin, vintage, and grape variety.
• Blind tasting of five spirits in 5 minutes – Competitors had to determine the base material, type, aging, and country of origin.
• Perfect pairing challenge – Choosing the ideal beverage for… the legendary Kyiv Cake, provided by the Ukrainian Chefs Association. (3 minutes)
• Wine list challenge – Finding errors in a wine menu within 3 minutes.

The contestants showcased their talent, resilience, and mastery, overcoming intricate challenges that demanded not just knowledge but lightning-fast reactions and flawless service. And finally, the most anticipated moment – the announcement of the winner. After an intense and thrilling competition, the panel of judges – including past champions of Best Sommelier of Ukraine, honorary jury members, and representatives of the All Ukrainian Bartenders Association, Iryna Mashykhina and Andrii Petrovskyi – made their final decision.

The winner of the competition and the title of “Best Sommelier of Ukraine 2025” was awarded to Ihor Postoiankin. Vice-champion and best theorist of the competition – Pavlo Mnukhin. Third place and the title of “Best Nose of Ukraine 2025” – Olga Hirman.

Behind the Scenes: Insights from Organizers and Winners

Of course, we couldn’t miss the opportunity to speak with the organizers and winners of the competition to hear firsthand about the challenges of the trials, the surprises in the tasks, and their initial impressions of this exceptional event. Ivan Bachurin, President of the Ukrainian Sommelier Association, shared his thoughts: “When the Board decided to hold the competition, we took on a great responsibility in these challenging times. We managed to organize an event that was engaging for guests, professional for industry representatives, and exciting for a wider audience. The competition tasks were designed to closely mirror those faced by Ukrainian sommeliers in international championships. For example, participants encountered tricky challenges related to the level of effervescence in sparkling wines, serving temperatures, and glass cleanliness.

Thanks to the support of our partners and the incredible efforts of the Association’s Board team, we were able to raise the bar for this competition and bring more attention to a profession that, like the entire country, is going through difficult times. However, based on my experience as a judge since 2011 and as an organizer of championships since 2018, I have noticed a decline in the overall qualification level of participants. We must work to restore the prestige of this profession. That’s why we decided to conduct all competition tasks exclusively in English this year, adding an extra challenge for the candidates. After all, it is professionalism and attention to detail that distinguish a true master from an amateur.”

The Vice President of the Association, Nataliia Vilinska, noted that this year the team put in tremendous effort to make the competition even larger in scale and more professional than in previous years.

“The world doesn’t stand still, and we must move forward. Many said that now was not the time, but I was confident that we would succeed. And it seems we managed to hold the competition at a truly high level,” shared Nataliia.

Speaking about the preparation, she noted that the organizational process lasted almost two months: negotiations with venues, coordination with partners, and working with the technical team, which ensured flawless support over the two days. This time, the Association’s archive will not only include photos but also a professional video of the competition, which was broadcast live.

“For the past six years, I have regularly attended ASI events and competitions in the Baltic countries. Thanks to professionals like Raimonds Tomsons and Jānis Kaļķis (Latvia), Arminas Darasevičius (Lithuania), and Kristjan Markii (Estonia), I have come a long way in judging, organizing competitions, and working with partners and participants. There’s still a lot that remains behind the scenes – those are plans for the future.

We take the global Association as our benchmark because our best sommeliers must represent Ukraine with dignity on the international stage. In ASI, every competition is a game, and this year, we decided to join in alongside the jury, the board, and the participants. I am sure you noticed it – this competition was unlike any before. And the next ones won’t be like this one either because we are not going to stop,” concluded Nataliia.

The Art of Wine Service: Do Sommeliers Need Cocktails?

After the final competitions, when the tension had eased and the winners and finalists could finally catch their breath, we asked them about their impressions. They had successfully tackled all challenges, quickly adapted to unexpected tasks, and – interestingly – agreed that modern sommeliers should pay more attention to cocktail culture.

Despite this, debates continued behind the scenes: do sommeliers really need cocktails? Some argued that a wine service expert should focus exclusively on wine and neat spirits. Meanwhile, others emphasized that the modern world sets new standards, and the more a professional knows, the more opportunities open up.

After all, mixology is not just about blending drinks – it’s a deep understanding of balance, textures, and aromas. Today’s sommelier must be more than just a wine expert; they should be a true gastronomic consultant, capable of crafting perfect pairings, staying ahead of trends, and surprising guests with unexpected flavor discoveries.

Perhaps this very competition will mark the beginning of a new perspective on the sommelier profession in Ukraine? Time will tell, but one thing is certain – growth and the pursuit of knowledge will always be the key to success.

Impressions from the Winners

Ihor Postoiankin, Best Sommelier of Ukraine 2025, head sommelier at CATCH, and co-founder of Ginius LTC:
“This competition was special for me – I felt confident, not just in the contest but in my profession as a whole. Ten years of experience paid off. The tasks were tougher, the competitors stronger, and it was an honor to compete with Pavlo and Olga. I saw the competition as a chance to showcase my service philosophy – like working in a new restaurant. Maintaining focus until the very end was the hardest part. Mastery isn’t just knowledge, it’s the ability to adapt – whether it’s a warm bottle, a dirty glass, or an unfamiliar cocktail. The competition is growing, but there’s still room for expansion – I’d love to see a bigger stage and audience. After all, this is the ‘Champions League Final’ of Ukraine’s wine world!”

Pavlo Mnukhin, Vice-Champion & Best Theorist, HoReCa Manager at Wine Bureau:
“The competition was fantastic! The challenges matched global standards, making it an invaluable experience. It was dynamic, tough, and thrilling. One thing’s clear – I need to focus more on cocktails! Wine culture and mixology go hand in hand, and this skill is becoming more relevant. Above all, the energy, excitement, and genuine passion made it an unforgettable celebration of our craft.”

Olha Hirman, Finalist, sommelier at Goodwine, founder of “Vynni Vechornytsi”:
“I’m happy with my result, especially considering the last competition was before the war. This event is an incredible opportunity for sommeliers to test their skills and grow. Huge thanks to the organizers – pulling off an event of this level under current circumstances is a true achievement. The competition felt world-class, and the 100 theoretical questions were tougher than ever, adding to the challenge. It’s unfortunate that many colleagues couldn’t participate due to the situation in the country, but those who did were incredible. Don’t fear mistakes – keep learning, improving, and striving for excellence!”

Conclusion

The Best Sommelier of Ukraine 2025 competition was more than just a contest – it was a testament to the strength of Ukraine’s sommelier community, its commitment to growth, and alignment with international standards. Participants, judges, and organizers all praised the high level of preparation and execution, reinforcing the importance of advancing wine culture in Ukraine. The event once again proved that the sommelier profession in Ukraine is evolving, and its representatives are ready for new challenges.

Despite the difficulties the country faces, this competition became a symbol of resilience, inspiration, and the pursuit of excellence. May the coming years bring even more remarkable discoveries, professional achievements, and unforgettable moments. Wishing for Victory – so that future competitions take place in a peaceful and prosperous Ukraine!

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

⇒ Every like is taken as a toast!

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uadrinks
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drinks.ua/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/drinks-media-group

The winner of the Best Sommelier of Ukraine competition, organized by the Ukrainian Sommelier Association, has been determined. The world of wine is not just about delicate aromas, refined flavors, and lingering finishes. It is also a test of intellect, discipline, intuition, and true artistry. After a long pause caused by the full-scale invasion, the […]

The UK’s biggest drinks trade event, London Wine Fair 2025, is set to take place from May 19th to 21st at Olympia Events, London. This prestigious fair is a must-attend for industry professionals, featuring an impressive lineup of exhibitors, engaging panel discussions, and exclusive tastings.

Take advantage of the early bird ticket offer – get £10 off a 3-day ticket to the Fair! Offer valid until March 10, 2025. Secure your spot now: Register here.

Exciting Highlights Await at LWF 2025!

London Wine Fair continues to be a premier platform for global wine professionals. This year, the event will feature:

• 400+ premium exhibitors across dedicated zones.
• 75+ panel discussions, masterclasses, and tastings.
• Daily pop-up tastings, showcasing a new showstopper each day.
• An intuitive planner platform to seamlessly schedule meetings and sessions.

This year, London Wine Fair is thrilled to welcome back industry leaders such as Felix Solis UK, Hatch Mansfield, Lanchester Wines, and Mentzendorff. Additionally, after an outstanding debut in 2024, Wines of Serbia will expand their presence by 25%, while The Japanese Pavilion is growing by 50%. Romania will also return with its largest-ever pavilion, bringing even more producers eager to collaborate with the UK market. New territories are also planning pavilions – stay tuned for updates!

Drinks+ and Wine Travel Awards at London Wine Fair 2025

Drinks+ Communication Media Group, in collaboration with the Wine Travel Awards, is proud to be an official media partner of London Wine Fair 2025. This year, we are excited to participate with our own stand, providing a unique platform to promote global wine tourism, connect industry professionals, and share exclusive insights.

Don’t miss out on London Wine Fair 2025 – the ultimate destination for discovering your next must-stock drinks! Register now and be part of this world-class event!

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

⇒ Every like is taken as a toast!

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uadrinks
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drinks.ua/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/drinks-media-group

The UK’s biggest drinks trade event, London Wine Fair 2025, is set to take place from May 19th to 21st at Olympia Events, London. This prestigious fair is a must-attend for industry professionals, featuring an impressive lineup of exhibitors, engaging panel discussions, and exclusive tastings. Take advantage of the early bird ticket offer – get […]

As the wine industry continues to evolve, understanding the shifting landscape of consumer preferences and sustainable practices has never been more critical. This March, the Wine Travel Awards (WTA) in partnership with Drinks+ Media Group will present a compelling session at ProWein 2025, titled “Introducing the Wine Consumer of the Future.” Scheduled for March 16, the prestigious opening day of the world’s largest wine and spirits fair in Düsseldorf, Germany, this session promises to deliver cutting-edge insights into the future dynamics of wine tourism and consumer behavior.

The Setting and the Stakes

ProWein, renowned for drawing global industry leaders, offers the perfect backdrop for this exploration. The session will unfold in the Business Forum of Hall 16, a space that has been the nucleus of thought leadership at the fair. Here, industry experts and wine connoisseurs will gather to discuss the pressing topics shaping the global wine market of tomorrow.

Expert Panels and Rich Dialogues

The WTA has curated an exceptional panel to lead the discourse, featuring Professor Dr. Gergely Szolnoki from Geisenheim University and Adrian Bridge, CEO of The Fladgate Partnership, World of Wine Porto, and Managing Director of The Porto Protocol. Veronika Busel, a seasoned wine marketing expert and the Head of Operations for Wine Travel Awards and Drinks Media, will moderate the session, ensuring a focused and enriching dialogue.

Professor Dr. Gergely Szolnoki

Professor Dr. Szolnoki will open the session by sharing insights from a series of comprehensive studies he has conducted with teams of leading experts. These studies focus on the evolving demographics of winery visitors and global wine consumers, framing the future landscape of wine preferences and engagement strategies. His presentation will underscore innovative methods to cater to these changing demographics, providing valuable insights that are applicable across the wine business spectrum, from large enterprises to medium and small-sized wine companies.

Adrian Bridge, CEO of The Fladgate Partnership, World of Wine Porto, and Managing Director of The Porto Protocol

Following the academic insights, Adrian Bridge will share his firsthand experiences from leading The World of Wine, one of the most vibrant global wine tourism projects. He will explore the role of wine tourism as a significant economic driver, highlighting how it offers novel pricing strategies and contributes to financial sustainability. Emphasizing the strategic advantage of urban proximity, Adrian will explain how integrating urban centers with vineyard experiences makes wine tourism more accessible and appealing to a wider audience. Further, he will delve into how wine tourism can complement traditional wine business models, contrasting these activities with the primary economic activities of wine production. His insights will provide a unique perspective on how wine tourism is evolving and interacting with broader business strategies in the global wine market.

Interactive Discussions and Takeaways

A unique feature of this session will be the interactive discussion between Professor Dr. Szolnoki and Adrian Bridge, moderated by Veronika Busel. This part of the program will weave together the theoretical and practical aspects presented, offering attendees a multi-dimensional view of the challenges and opportunities within wine tourism today. Topics will include the integration of wine tourism with local and natural tourism efforts, the use of modern technologies, and the impactful role of educational content in promoting sustainable practices.

The session will conclude with a Q&A segment, inviting the audience to engage directly with the panelists, fostering a deeper understanding and possibly sparking collaborative initiatives.

Why This Matters

This session at ProWein 2025, led by notable experts in the field, is crucial for anyone looking to understand and influence the future of the wine industry. By introducing attendees to cutting-edge consumer research and proven business strategies, the session aims to equip wine tourism professionals with the knowledge and tools needed to adapt to a rapidly changing global market. Attendees will gain actionable insights into attracting new demographics and integrating sustainable practices, ensuring the wine industry continues to thrive in alignment with contemporary consumer values and economic realities.

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

⇒ Every like is taken as a toast!

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uadrinks
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drinks.ua/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/drinks-media-group

As the wine industry continues to evolve, understanding the shifting landscape of consumer preferences and sustainable practices has never been more critical. This March, the Wine Travel Awards (WTA) in partnership with Drinks+ Media Group will present a compelling session at ProWein 2025, titled “Introducing the Wine Consumer of the Future.” Scheduled for March 16, the […]

Top global wine events are a key platform for promoting Ukrainian wines. With this in mind, in just a few weeks the Wines of Ukraine team, along with the most ambitious Ukrainian winemakers and spirits producers, will head to ProWein 2025, the world’s largest international wine trade fair, taking place March 16–18 in Düsseldorf, Germany.

This year, the Ukrainian stand will feature 12 participants:

Artwinery
Beykush Winery
Big Wines
Biologist
Bolgrad
Chateau Chizay
Grande Vallee
Koblevo
Kolonist
46 Parallel
Honey Badger
Villa Tinta

Additionally, SHABO, Ukraine’s most internationally awarded winery, will present its own stand at ProWein 2025.

Visitors to the Ukrainian stand can expect exciting new releases, wines from the challenging yet fascinating 2024 vintage, notable aged wines, interesting local varieties and indigenous grapes, wines from unique terroirs across Ukraine, an incredible spectrum of flavors and aromas, exceptional quality, and a true Ukrainian character.

The Wines of Ukraine team and producers warmly invite buyers, industry experts, media representatives, and friends of Ukrainian wine to visit our stand — to discuss business, connect, share a toast (or a hug!), and, of course, taste some remarkable wines!

Just taste it!

• When: March 16-18, 2025
• Where: Messe Düsseldorf, Stockumer Kirchstraße 61, 40474 Düsseldorf, Germany.
• Wines of Ukraine: 9A89 

For more information about the participants of the Ukrainian stand, their wines, and Ukrainian winemaking, please visit the Wines of Ukraine website or follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Drinks.ua wishes Ukrainian producers and the Wines of Ukraine team tremendous success at this year’s expo and profitable new contracts!

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

⇒ Every like is taken as a toast!

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uadrinks
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drinks.ua/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/drinks-media-group

Top global wine events are a key platform for promoting Ukrainian wines. With this in mind, in just a few weeks the Wines of Ukraine team, along with the most ambitious Ukrainian winemakers and spirits producers, will head to ProWein 2025, the world’s largest international wine trade fair, taking place March 16–18 in Düsseldorf, Germany. […]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

⇒ Every like is taken as a toast!

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uadrinks
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drinks.ua/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/drinks-media-group

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

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

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

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

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

Christian Marchesini, president of the Valpolicella Wine Consortium

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

______________________

*Editor Note: JC Viens

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

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

⇒ Every like is taken as a toast!

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uadrinks
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drinks.ua/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/drinks-media-group

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