Strasbourg Hosts Landmark International Wine Competitions Showcasing Global Excellence

Strasbourg hosted two major international wine competitions on March 14 and 15, 2026, drawing attention from the global wine industry. The city welcomed the 28th edition of the Mondial des Vins Blancs Strasbourg and the inaugural European Red & Rosé Wine Contest. Both events were organized by Strasbourg events, a company with nearly three decades of experience in hosting wine competitions.

The Mondial des Vins Blancs Strasbourg remains a benchmark for white wines worldwide. This year, 487 samples from 15 countries were evaluated by a panel of 60 expert judges representing 26 nations. The competition awarded 146 medals, including 17 Grand Gold, 119 Gold, and 10 Silver medals. Only 30% of entries in each category could receive medals, following OIV (International Organisation of Vine and Wine) regulations. Nine countries received awards: Czech Republic, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Luxembourg, Slovakia, Switzerland, and Ukraine.

France’s Alsace region stood out with two wines sharing the Grand Prix du Jury: Domaine Pierre Adam’s Gewurztraminer Grand Cru Hengst 2024 and Domaine Henri Martischang’s Pinot Gris Grand Cru Steinert 2024. The Czech Republic also performed strongly, winning both VINOFED Awards for best dry still and sparkling wines.

A notable feature of this year’s event was a masterclass on rare wines made from ungrafted vines—vines that survived the Phylloxera epidemic of the 19th century. Led by Swiss sommelier Roberta Bernasconi-Borella, the session included tastings from Italian and Swiss producers and highlighted the historical and technical significance of these unique wines.

The first European Red & Rosé Wine Contest reflected new trends in the wine market. Judges tasted 59 samples from several countries, with a focus on lighter red wines, dynamic rosés, native grape varieties, and wines from ungrafted vines. Spain achieved a significant result by winning the Grand Prix du Jury for red wines with Maset del Lleó 1777 – 2021 from Agrupació Viticultors Artesanals SL (Maset). France took home the Grand Prix du Jury for rosé with Taittinger’s AOC Champagne Comtes de Champagne Rosé 2013.

In total, the Red & Rosé contest awarded 18 medals—14 Gold and 4 Silver—to producers from Spain, France, Greece, Italy, and Slovakia. Six of these medals went to wines made from ungrafted vines. Three jury favorites were also named: an Italian rosé from ungrafted Cannonau grapes (Cantina Li Seddi), an Italian red from Aglianico (Feudi di San Gregorio), and a Slovakian red made from Dunaj grapes (Ostrožovič).

Both competitions emphasized innovation alongside tradition. The presence of wines made from indigenous grape varieties and own-rooted vines was especially strong this year. Organizers noted that these categories are gaining importance as consumers seek authenticity and diversity in their wine choices.

The service during both competitions was provided by students from the Alexandre Dumas Hospitality School in Illkirch-Graffenstaden. Wines were served in glasses tailored to each type by partner RONA 5 Star Glass.

Strasbourg events continues to position itself as a leader in international wine competitions. With over 750,000 visitors annually at its events and recognition as France’s best convention center for three consecutive years at the World MICE Awards, its influence extends beyond regional borders.

Full results for both competitions are available online at mondial-vins-blancs.com. Organizers expect that this year’s contests will further boost visibility for awarded producers and highlight emerging trends in viticulture across Europe and beyond.