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International wine and spirit competition thessaloniki

International Greek Wine Competition in Thessaloniki: A benchmark for Hellenic winemaking excellence

Are you looking for the best Greek wines, recognized by international experts?
The Thessaloniki International Wine Competition is one of Greece’s most prestigious wine events, showcasing the best wines from the country and beyond. The competition offers worldwide recognition to Greek winemakers and is an essential benchmark for connoisseurs of fine wines. Find out more about its history, selection criteria and why it has become a benchmark in the wine industry.

What is the Thessaloniki International Wine Competition?

The Thessaloniki International Wine Competition is an annual event that rewards the best Greek and international wines.
Organized by the Union of Oenologists of Greece, it takes place in Thessaloniki, the country’s second-largest city, renowned for its dynamic viticulture and gastronomy.

This competition highlights exceptional vintages, emblematic grape varieties and passionate producers, guaranteeing rigorous selection and impartial judging.

The history of the Thessaloniki International Wine Competition

Created in 1999, this competition aims to :

🍷 To promote Greek viticulture on the international scene
🌍 To highlight indigenous Greek grape varieties such as Xinomavro, Assyrtiko and Malagousia
🏆 To offer worldwide recognition to the best Greek and foreign wines

Every year, hundreds of wines from all the wine-growing regions of Greece and other countries are tasted by an international jury of wine experts, oenologists and sommeliers.

What are the evaluation criteria for the Thessaloniki International Wine Competition?

Wines are judged according to a strict scoring system based on the following criteria:

  • Sensory analysis: blind tasting by an international jury
  • Aromas and complexity: balance between different olfactory notes
  • Taste and structure: harmony between acidity, tannins and length on the palate
  • Authenticity and typicality: respect for grape varieties and winemaking methods
  • Ageing potential: a wine’s ability to evolve positively over time.

These criteria guarantee an objective and qualitative selection, offering consumers a reliable reference for choosing the best Greek wines.

How does the Thessaloniki International Wine Competition work?

The selection process follows several key stages:

  • Sample submission: Producers send their wines to the competition organizers.
  • Selection and grouping: Wines are classified by category, grape variety and vintage.
  • Blind tasting: A panel of experts evaluates each wine without knowing its origin.
  • Grading and deliberation: Each wine is judged on a rigorous scale, in line with international standards.
  • Awards: Gold, silver and bronze medals are awarded to the best wines.

Why is the Thessaloniki International Wine Competition important?

🏆 International recognition: An award-winning wine benefits from worldwide exposure and increased credibility.
🍇 Highlighting Greek grape varieties: This competition highlights unique indigenous varieties such as Agiorgitiko, Moschofilero and Vidiano.
🌍 Encouraging sustainable viticulture: Producers who adopt organic and eco-responsible practices are given special recognition.
📈 Commercial advantage: A medal-winning wine becomes more attractive on the international market, gaining in prestige and notoriety.

Wine categories awarded at the Thessaloniki International Wine Competition

The competition covers various wine categories, highlighting :

🍷 Red wines: young, barrel-aged, exceptional vintages
🥂 White wines: dry, aromatic, barrel-fermented
🍾 Sparkling wines: traditional sparkling wines and natural pétillants
🍯 Sweet wines: dessert wines made from overripe or raisined grapes
🌿 Organic and biodynamic wines: produced using natural, sustainable methods

Producers submit their wines in these categories, and the best receive awards recognizing their excellence.

Wines awarded at the Thessaloniki International Wine Competition at Growy and Tasty

At Growy and Tasty, we select award-winning Greek wines, guaranteeing quality, authenticity and exceptional terroir.

Our wines win awards at the Thessaloniki International Wine Competition:

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