News

The 25th edition has begun with a record number of entries and an exceptional panel of judges and tasters!

If there is one institution in the Greek wine industry that has contributed more than any other in developing the quality of branded Greek wine, that is undoubtedly the Thessaloniki Wine & Spirits Trophy.

First established in 1999, this competition, stronger than ever, has now reached its 25th edition. It enjoys the trust of the country's most active and significant wineries and the support of all industry stakeholders.

Additionally, new wineries, recognizing the value of the competition’s results, trust its evaluation. They participate not only to receive professional scoring and feedback from distinguished judges, but also for the chance to earn medals and distinctions — which, as widely acknowledged, enhance both brand visibility and market recognition.

Over the years, the Thessaloniki Wine & Spirits Trophy has highlighted and supported countless wineries, serving as a quality benchmark and a launchpad for commercial success.

Mr. Konstantinos Lazarakis MW, a globally renowned Master of Wine and one of the most distinguished figures in the international wine industry, serves as president at the helm of the competition.

A Prestigious Three-Day Evaluation

The 25th edition kicks off today, launching an intense three-day evaluation process with a panel of 30 expert judges, including:

  • 18 Greek judges
  • 12 international judges from the UK, Canada, France, Germany, Sweden, and Cyprus
  • Among them: 3 Master Sommeliers, 2 Masters of Wine, and 4 MW candidates
Notably, among the international judges, distinguished professionals include:
  • Roderick Smith MW, President of the Institute of Masters of Wine (MW)
  • Ronan Sayburn MS, CEO of the Court of Master Sommeliers

In addition to Mr. Lazarakis, the first Greek Master of Wine (one of only 421 MWs globally), on the Greek judging panel, we welcome esteemed professionals from the Hellenic Association of Sommeliers, 2 MW candidates, and top wine & spirits evaluators.

The panel also includes six trainee judges—without voting rights—to ensure that the Thessaloniki competition acts as a training ground for future wine experts.

Competition Statistics for 2025

This year’s 25th Thessaloniki Wine & Spirits Trophy has attracted:

  • 947 wines
  • 83 spirits
  • 243 wineries & distilleries
  • 8% increase in entries compared to 2024

The judging process will involve:

  • 6 panels of judges
  • 75 total tasting flights
  • Over 3 days (February 25-27, 2025)
  • The most significant single flight featuring 16 samples

Results & Award Ceremony

The 25th Thessaloniki Wine & Spirits Trophy results will be announced on Friday, February 28, 2025. The official medal awards ceremony for the wineries and distilleries will take place at 19:00 on Sunday, March 9, 2025, at Athens Conservatoire.

As every year, the ceremony will begin with the presentation of the “Greek Wine Industry Award,” which recognizes individuals who have significantly contributed to promoting Greek wine internationally.

This year’s recipient is Mr. Konstantinos Spiliadis, owner of the renowned "Milos" restaurants found in some of the world’s most cosmopolitan cities. Beyond his contribution to wine and Greek gastronomy, Mr. Spiliadis has played a crucial role in promoting Greek history and culture globally.

Entrance is free.
For more information about the Thessaloniki Wine & Spirits Trophy, its history, objectives, competition regulations, judging panels, sponsors, and more, visit: 🔗 www.tiwc.gr

Participate in the COmpetition
Results & Awards
Thessaloniki Wine & Spirits Trophy

Contact

17b Politexniou str., 54626, Thessaloniki, Greece
tel: +302310281617
email: info@tiwc.gr
Follow us:

glosses mobile