OIV Awards Spotlight Wine World's Best

The 2024 OIV (International Organisation of Vine and Wine) Awards have once again spotlighted some of the most exceptional works in the fields of viticulture and oenology. Recognized as a benchmark in wine and vine-related publishing, the awards celebrate books that push the boundaries of research and knowledge in these areas. This year, out of 81 entries from 22 countries, 14 main prizes were awarded, and 15 additional works received special mentions. The highly coveted President of the Jury Prize went to one distinguished publication, a reflection of the overall quality of submissions from both OIV member and non-member countries.

For the first time in the history of the OIV Awards, the 2024 ceremony will be held outside France. Lisbon, Portugal, will serve as the host city, with the event taking place on September 20, 2024, at the Centro Cultural de Belém. This choice is particularly significant, as Portugal is one of the founding members of the OIV and plays a prominent role in the global wine industry. The event will be co-organized by the OIV, the Instituto da Vinha e do Vinho (IVV), and Wines of Portugal. This year's ceremony is not just a celebration of the winners but also part of the OIV's centenary festivities. Since its inception in 1930, the organization has been dedicated to promoting excellence in the wine and vine sector, fostering international collaboration and sharing of expertise.

The OIV Awards are judged by an international panel of experts, each representing a member country of the OIV. This diverse jury ensures that a broad range of perspectives is considered when evaluating the submissions. The judging process is based on consensus, with each work being assessed for its contribution to the body of knowledge in its respective field. Categories include viticulture, oenology, economics, history, and law related to wine, among others. The jury not only awards the main prizes but also grants special mentions to works that, while not winning a top honor, still deserve recognition for their quality and innovation.

The range of winning works in 2024 reflects the broad spectrum of topics covered by the awards. From cutting-edge scientific research to comprehensive guides on the culture and history of wine, the winners have made significant contributions to the understanding of both the practical and theoretical aspects of viticulture and winemaking. The inclusion of digital formats among the awardees underscores the evolving nature of wine scholarship, embracing modern methods of knowledge dissemination.

France and Italy Lead the Way in Submissions

France and Italy, two of the world's most renowned wine-producing countries, led the list of submissions this year, reaffirming their longstanding influence in the world of wine. Both countries have a rich history of wine production, and their scholars and authors continue to lead discussions on the latest developments in viticulture and oenology. Their dominance in the submission pool speaks to the robust academic and cultural interest in these areas within both countries.

However, the diversity of this year's entries, spanning from Asia to the Americas, highlights the global interest in the subject. As wine markets grow and evolve, particularly in regions like South America, Australia, and even China, the scope of wine scholarship is expanding, with more countries making their mark on the international stage.

While the main prizes receive the bulk of the attention, the special mentions are an essential component of the OIV Awards. These acknowledgments shine a spotlight on works that, although not awarded a primary distinction, offer valuable insights and contributions. The OIV's recognition of these works underscores the depth and diversity of research in the field. Whether through innovative methodologies, novel topics, or compelling narratives, these publications enrich the broader conversation about wine and vine.

The prestige of being recognized by the OIV is not only an accolade for the authors and editors but also serves as a signal to the broader wine community. Winning or even receiving a special mention at the OIV Awards often leads to increased visibility and wider dissemination of the work. This, in turn, supports the broader mission of the OIV to foster knowledge sharing and innovation within the sector.

2025 Awards

For those hoping to submit their work for the 2025 edition of the OIV Awards, the submission window is already open, with entries accepted until February 28, 2025. Works can be submitted in either print or digital formats, and there are no restrictions on the language or country of origin. However, entrants are reminded that all associated costs, such as shipping or customs duties, must be covered by the sender to ensure their submission is accepted.

One of the strengths of the OIV Awards is the inclusivity of its submission process. By allowing entries from any part of the world, in any language, the OIV encourages a truly global exchange of knowledge. This open approach has helped the awards remain relevant over the decades and contributed to their status as one of the most prestigious honors in the wine industry.

The OIV Awards 2024 continue to affirm the vital role that research and scholarship play in the wine world. Whether through scientific advancements, historical analysis, or economic insight, the winning works contribute to a deeper understanding of the industry. With a jury composed of international experts, a rigorous selection process, and a platform that highlights both main winners and special mentions, the OIV Awards remain a prestigious recognition for those advancing knowledge in the field of vine and wine.

As the OIV celebrates its 100th year, the 2024 awards ceremony in Lisbon will not only honor the latest contributions to the sector but also reflect on the rich history of wine scholarship. With a growing pool of international submissions and the continued leadership of countries like France and Italy, the future of the OIV Awards looks as vibrant as the wines they celebrate.