Category: Wine Trade

The Institute of Masters of Wine announces seven award winners and welcomes ten new Masters of Wine

The Institute of Masters of Wine (IMW) celebrated seven award winners and officially welcomed ten new Masters of Wine (MWs) to its membership this week at a ceremony in Vintners’ Hall, London.

The IMW’s annual awards ceremony celebrates the inauguration of the new MWs and recognises individual excellence in areas of the MW examination. Friends, family and Masters of Wine from around the globe flew into London for the occasion to welcome the new ‘MW vintage’, which includes MWs from six countries across three continents.

Receiving their induction tonight were Neil Bernardi MW (US), Emily Brighton MW (UK), Benjamin Hasko MW (Singapore), Christopher Martin MW (UK), Victoria Mason MW (UK), Robert Mathias MW (UK), Dror Nativ MW (UK), Pietro Russo MW (Italy), Tone Veseth Furuholmen MW (Norway), Wei Xing MW (China).

Each new MW received a framed calligraphic certificate, and a 24K gold Master of Wine pin engraved with their unique membership number.

Following the inauguration the individual awards, introduced into the ceremony in 1979 and sponsored by IMW supporters, included two new accolades this year: The Vintners’ Company award for the top performance in the business of wine paper, and the VSPT Wine Group award for best performance in the contemporary issues paper. Victoria Mason MW and Dror Nativ MW both took home three awards, with Emily Brighton MW receiving one. The 2024 awards and winners in full are:

Quinta do Noval award
For the best research paper by a new MW. Presented by Christian Seely, Managing Director, AXA Millésimes. Awarded to Victoria Mason MW for her paper, An investigation into the enablers and barriers to the adoption and practice of regenerative viticulture in Stellenbosch. All research papers can be accessed at: https://www.mastersofwine.org/research-papers

Taransaud Tonnellerie award
For excellence in the production and handling of the wine paper. Presented by Henri de Pracomtal, Chairman and CEO of Taransaud. Awarded to Emily Brighton MW.

Vintners’ Company award
For the top performance in the business of wine paper. Presented by Ann Hill, Master Vintner, the Vintners’ Company. Awarded to Victoria Mason MW.

VSPT Wine Group award
For best performance in the contemporary issues paper. Presented on behalf of VSPT Wine Group by Caroline Hermann MW, IMW Vice-Chair. Awarded to Dror Nativ MW.

Robert Mondavi Winery award
For the best performance across all the theory papers. Presented by Sara Fogarty, Regional Manager UK, Constellation Brands. Awarded to Victoria Mason MW.

IMW outstanding achievement award
Sponsored by the Austrian Wine Marketing Board (AWMB). For outstanding achievement across all papers. Presented on behalf of the Austrian Wine Marketing Board by Caroline Hermann MW, IMW Vice-Chair. Awarded to Dror Nativ MW.

Madame Bollinger medal
For outstanding tasting ability. Presented by Justin Liddle, Managing Director, Mentzendorff & Co Ltd. Awarded to Dror Nativ MW.

In addition to celebrating the new Masters of Wine, the ceremony honoured four members for reaching their 50th year as MWs. John Brown MW, Charles Eve MW, Anthony Foster MW and Bill Gunn MW passed their MW examination in 1974. Coincidentally, John Brown also celebrates his golden wedding anniversary this year, while Anthony’s son was born the day he received his results.

IMW Executive Director Julian Gore-Booth said: “We are delighted to welcome ten new MWs from across three continents, recognise the outstanding work of our award winners and honour our vintage members. This evening’s event celebrates their remarkable dedication, expertise and contribution to the pursuit of wine excellence.

Congratulations to all on your exceptional achievements. We are proud to have you as part of our global community.”

“Dinner of the Thousand” – Bolgheri’s 30-Year Legacy at the Iconic Viale dei Cipressi

On September 4, 2024, Bolgheri, the small yet iconic wine region on the Tuscan coast, celebrated a significant milestone: 30 years of the Bolgheri and Bolgheri Sassicaia Denomination of Origin Control (DOC). This memorable evening took place at the breathtaking Viale dei Cipressi, symbolizing Bolgheri’s dedication to wine excellence and its reputation as a global icon of Italian viticulture.

The event, titled the “Dinner of the Thousand,” continued the success of the first edition in 2021, organized by the Consortium of Bolgheri and Bolgheri Sassicaia DOC Wines. The dinner underscored the unity and teamwork among producers who have elevated Bolgheri wines to international prominence. Albiera Antinori, President of the Consortium, warmly welcomed guests, expressing pride in the region’s achievements. Over the last three decades, Bolgheri has earned a place among the world’s most celebrated wine regions. The Viale dei Cipressi—planted by Guidalberto della Gherardesca in 1832 and immortalized by poet Giosuè Carducci—enhanced the grandeur of the evening. Guests enjoyed an exceptional dinner at a one-kilometer-long table, surrounded by the iconic cypress trees.

En Primeur: A First Taste of Bolgheri’s Finest
The finest DOC wines, including en primeur selections from 74 producers, flowed freely throughout the evening, reaffirming Bolgheri’s standing as a destination of exceptional wine quality. My day began with a tasting at the Consorzio headquarters, attended by select Italian and international wine writers. The afternoon featured a preview of the Bolgheri Superiore DOC 2022 vintage—an exclusive opportunity, as the tasting occurred nearly four months before the vintage’s market release. The wines from 2022 showcased vibrant fruit and aromatic intensity. Natural acidity ensured freshness, while most wines displayed a graceful balance from start to finish, although some exhibited softer tannins typical of youthful wines.

The Unique Terroir That Defines Bolgheri’s Wines
The celebration of Bolgheri’s 30 years as a DOC highlights the region’s natural advantages. Nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and surrounding hills, Bolgheri’s amphitheater-like setting provides ideal conditions for grape growing, with diverse soils and a temperate coastal climate. The intricate mix of sandy, clay-sandy, and gravelly soils forms a unique foundation for some of Italy’s most prestigious wines. The Consortium’s dedication to preserving this terroir, supported by rigorous research, has secured Bolgheri’s place as one of the world’s most sought-after wine regions, with vineyards now covering 1,350 hectares.

A Small Jewel Along the Mediterranean Coast
The DOC Bolgheri area, located within the municipality of Castagneto Carducci, spans 1,359 hectares of vineyards across 13 kilometers north to south and about 7 kilometers from west to east, ranging from 10 to 380 meters above sea level. Surrounded by the “Macchia Mediterranea,” a dense green coastal forest, Bolgheri benefits from continuous sunlight and cooling sea breezes, which foster wines with freshness and elegance. Diverse soil compositions—sandy soils near the sea, clay-sandy alluvial soils, clay-silty soils in foothill vineyards, and gravelly soils in the hills—contribute to the distinct character of Bolgheri wines. The Consorzio’s decade-long zoning study deepens the understanding of this terroir, analyzing each soil type’s potential.

Innovative Tradition: Bolgheri’s Evolving Legacy
Bolgheri’s success stems from its producers’ shared vision of quality and innovation. The region continues to evolve, adapting wine regulations to meet contemporary tastes while maintaining high standards. As a young yet esteemed district among historic Tuscan wine regions, Bolgheri began red wine production around the 1940s, when the visionary Marquis Mario Incisa della Rocchetta planted French varietals, especially Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, on his Tenuta San Guido estate. The first significant success came with the 1968 vintage of Sassicaia, a blend later hailed as one of the world’s finest wines.

Initially known for local white and rosé wines, Bolgheri’s journey shifted following the pioneering success of Tenuta San Guido. By the mid-1980s, Bolgheri had emerged as a powerhouse for red wine, producing “Super Tuscans” that garnered global acclaim. This success led to the first DOC Bolgheri red wine regulation in 1994, with a subzone for Sassicaia. In 2013, DOC Bolgheri Sassicaia received official recognition, becoming Italy’s only appellation dedicated to a single estate and wine.

Bolgheri remains innovative, with recent updates in wine regulations expanding the varietals for DOC Bolgheri white wines to include Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc, and Vermentino. Currently, Bolgheri produces three DOC red wine types: DOC Bolgheri Rosso, DOC Bolgheri Rosso Superiore, DOC Bolgheri Sassicaia, as well as DOC Rosato (rosé) and two DOC Bianco (white) designations.

Bolgheri: A Destination for Wine Enthusiasts
Bolgheri’s prominence has also made it a magnet for wine tourism. Over the past two decades, wine estates have embraced hospitality, offering visitors the chance to experience the region’s beauty and wines. Whether exploring the vineyards or tasting wines, Bolgheri combines tradition, innovation, and natural beauty, drawing wine lovers worldwide.

As the evening drew to a close, the significance of Bolgheri’s journey over the past 30 years was clear. From modest beginnings to becoming a wine powerhouse, Bolgheri’s commitment to quality and connection to the land remain as inspiring as ever.

An Iconic Wine Destination with Unique Charm
Over the past 20 years, Bolgheri’s wine tourism has flourished, becoming a must-visit destination for international travelers. While only a few estates welcomed visitors in the early 1990s, today nearly all wineries open their doors to wine enthusiasts and professionals. A variety of hospitality options is available, from family-owned properties to renowned wineries.

The DOC philosophy encourages each winery to express its unique relationship with the environment, creating a sense of “diversity” that reflects Bolgheri’s natural elements. The landscape enchants the senses, with aromas, flavors, and picturesque villages harmonizing with the surroundings. From gently rolling hills to a stunning coastal reserve, Bolgheri enhances the experience of its exceptional wines.

The Diversity of Bolgheri: A Land of Flavor and Tradition
Bolgheri boasts a rich culinary scene, from family-style, traditional cooking to gourmet dining. The region offers diverse dining options, whether savoring countryside dishes of meat and vegetables or fresh seafood by the coast. Beyond Bolgheri’s town walls, ancient hilltop villages add to the experience, featuring artisan boutiques, open-air markets, and cozy accommodations that capture the authentic, serene Tuscan lifestyle.

Filippo Magnani

Insights from the 8th UNWTO Global Wine Tourism Conference – Wine Travel Awards

Nestled in the scenic landscapes of Armenia, the 8th UNWTO Global Conference on Wine Tourism recently convened, gathering luminaries from the Wine Travel Awards (WTA) community, including Prof. Gergely Szolnoki, Liz Palmer, Paul Wagner, and Alder Yarrow, among others. This year’s theme, “Heritage in Every Bottle,” brilliantly highlighted how ancient winemaking traditions are being revitalized through cutting-edge wine tourism innovations.

Participants delved into pressing issues like sustainable wine tourism and the role of digital technology in crafting compelling wine stories. The conference showcased Armenia’s distinguished wineries – Zorah Wines, Old Bridge Winery, Trinity Canyon Vineyards, Momik Wines, Karas Wines, and “Armenia Wine” Winery and Vineyards – as prime examples of how culture and innovation can merge to forge a dynamic future for the wine industry.

For a comprehensive overview filled with insights from keynote speakers on the transformative discussions that are redefining wine tourism, click to read the full article: https://lnkd.in/dvgpPvDC

Source: Wine Travel Awards

Own a Piece of Bourgogne History – BIVB to Auction Iconic Appellation Signs

For any wine lover, having a tangible connection to the vineyards is a dream, and this dream can now become a reality with special thanks to the Bourgogne Wine Board (BIVB). After refreshing all their vineyard signs in 2023 they are offering wine enthusiasts and professionals the rare opportunity to acquire a piece of Bourgogne’s history. On Tuesday, November 12, 600 iconic vineyard signs will go under the hammer in an exclusive auction, allowing fans of the region’s illustrious appellations to bring a slice of Bourgogne home.

Taking place live from the Cité des Climats et vins de Bourgogne in Beaune, this unique auction will be divided into 300 lots, many of which once graced the prestigious Grand Cru, Village, and Régionale appellations. Hosted by renowned auctioneers Jérôme Duvillard and Alexandra Chaillou-Weidmann (Quai des enchères), the sale will be accessible via drouot.com and interencheres.com, where bidders can follow along via livestream.

Bring Home an Appellation Souvenir
These signs have been a part of the landscape of Bourgogne for over two decades, proudly marking the regions from Côte de Beaune to Mâconnais. Imagine a sign from your favorite Grand Cru appellation adorning your home or wine cellar or adding a touch of vineyard charm to your garden. Each lot is a celebration of the unique terroirs that have made Bourgogne famous worldwide.

Highlights include:

29 Grand Cru appellation signs (1.30m x 0.6m)
280 Régionale or Village appellation signs (1.90m x 0.4m)
280 signs bearing the iconic “B” of Bourgogne wines (0.45m diameter)

The online catalogue gives bidders ample time to plan their purchases.

A Sale with a Cultural Cause
This auction isn’t just about acquiring a vineyard keepsake – it’s also a chance to contribute to the cultural richness of Bourgogne. All proceeds from the sale will support the Cité des Climats et vins de Bourgogne in continuing its diverse cultural activities, including conferences and exhibitions celebrating the art, history, and heritage of the region. After a successful first year, the Cité is growing in popularity, and this auction will help further its mission.

So, where will you display your piece of Bourgogne?

Source: The Bourgogne Wine Board (BIVB)

WineGB calls for further support from Government for wine exports

WineGB is calling on the government to provide additional support to promote the growth of GB wine sales overseas through exports. The percentage of sales from export has doubled in two years from 4% in 2021 to 8% in 2023.

Currently, British wines are exported to 45 countries, with the largest markets being Norway, Japan, the United States, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Hong Kong and South Korea. Notably, sales of English still and sparkling wines in Norway have surged by 33% over the past year.

According to figures from Norwegian alcohol monopoly Vinmonopolet, sales increased by 21,551 litres, reaching a total of 87,318 litres.

WineGB is pushing for stronger partnerships with the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) and the GREAT campaign, as outlined in its Manifesto for Growth. The trade body emphasises that no new wine-producing region has established itself in the global export market without significant government backing. WineGB is keen to work closely with Jonathan Reynolds MP, secretary of state for the DBT, to accelerate the growth of British wine exports.

To level the playing field for English and Welsh wines in international markets, WineGB has proposed five key actions:

1. Showcasing English and Welsh wines in 20 to 30 major cities worldwide

2. Enhancing grant funding, export financing, and support for physical distribution at overseas events

3. Improving trade access to European markets

4. Expanding the UK’s gastro-diplomacy efforts through its global network; and

5. Assisting exporters with better access to accurate and up-to-date export data

Sources: https://winegb.co.uk, and Harpers