The Wines of Portugal Challenge is back for another edition that highlights the quality and diversity of Portugal’s wine production, this time featuring 1,170 entries in the competition.

The competition takes place in two distinct phases. The first will be held from May 4 to 6 at CNEMA in Santarém, where national and international judges—including winemakers, sommeliers, journalists, and wine educators—will evaluate the wines in blind tastings to award Gold and Silver medals.

Among the international judges are leading figures in the wine world, such as Alder Yarrow from the United States, one of the most influential voices in the wine industry; Tony Lécuroux from Switzerland, holder of the prestigious title of Master Sommelier; and Christopher Sealy from Canada, an internationally renowned figure in the fine dining sector. The panel also includes experts from strategic markets such as Sean Ou from Singapore, Hyisu Han from South Korea, and Mariella Lazaretti from Brazil.

The final round will take place on May 7 and 8 in Évora, bringing together the Grand Jury responsible for selecting the wines awarded the Grand Gold Medal and choosing the Best of the Year. The winners will be announced at the Gala and Awards Ceremony, scheduled for May 8 at the Palácio Duques de Cadaval in Évora, an event celebrating excellence in the sector.

“Portuguese wines are now among the most competitive in the world, and this competition is a testament to that fact. The 1,170 entries reflect not only the diversity and richness of our wine-growing regions, but also the consistency, innovation, and ambition of our producers. The Wines of Portugal Challenge, even after 13 years, remains a fundamental platform for promoting the sector and strengthening the visibility of our wines in foreign markets,” emphasizes Frederico Falcão, Wines of Portugal CEO.

More than just a competition, the Wines of Portugal Challenge is an important tool for promoting and raising the profile of Portuguese wine internationally. Wines awarded the Grand Gold and Gold medals gain visibility at leading international events, helping to strengthen the positioning and recognition of Portuguese wine abroad.

For more information about the Wines of Portugal Challenge and the complete list of judges, visit https://concursovinhosdeportugal.pt/index.php