A Night of Recognition and Celebration
The gala was graced by notable figures, including Governor of Mendoza Alfredo Cornejo, Governor of Neuquen Rolando Figueroa, the president of EMETUR Gabriela Testa, the general manager of ProMendoza Patricia Giménez, the Mayor from Godoy Cruz Diego Costarelli and other key industry leaders. The event highlighted the dedication and excellence of local businesses and individuals who have significantly contributed to the wine tourism sector. With 85 proposals from 48 companies, the competition was fierce, showcasing the vibrant and dynamic nature of Mendoza’s wine tourism industry.
The National Harvest Queen and Vice-queen atended the event together with the representants of the Godoy Cruz Deparment. The National Harvest Queen and Vice-queen opened the event with a vivid presentation in Spanish and English.
Award Categories and Winners
The awards were presented in various categories, each recognizing different aspects of wine tourism:
Accommodation:
Gold: La Morada Lodge
Silver: Hualta Winery Hotel
Bronze: Giménez Riili Winery and Vineyards
Culinary Experiences:
Gold: Bodega Alta Vista – Restaurante Assemblage
Silver: Auténtico Contemporary Cuisine
Bronze: Durigutti Wines
Architecture and Landscape:
Gold: Penedo Borges
Silver: Savia Cocina Casarena
Bronze: Viña Cobos
Art and Culture:
Gold: Mendoza Wine Fair 2024
Silver: Tapiz Museum
Bronze: Municipality of Mendoza
Innovative Experiences:
Gold: Estación 83 – Bodega Trapiche
Silver: Kaiken Winery
Bronze: Mauricio Lorca Winery
Sustainable Practices:
Gold: Terrazas de los Andes
Silver: Durigutti Wines Winery
Bronze: Auténtico Chacayes
Related Services:
Gold: Bee Experience
Silver: Wine Pass
Bronze: Mendoza Balloons
Small Wineries (Local category, doesn’t compete at international level)
Gold: Penedo Borges
Silver: Hacienda del Plata
Looking Ahead
The winners of the gold awards will have the honor of representing Mendoza at the international level in Verona, Italy, competing for the global Best of Wine Tourism awards during the GWC Annual Conference 2024. This opportunity not only highlights their achievements but also places Mendoza firmly on the map as a premier wine tourism destination.
Companies wishing to attend the Annual Conference in Verona can register until September 20th in the following link: Business Delegate Registration GWC AC Verona 2024
A Commitment to Excellence
Gabriela Testa, president of Emetur (Tourism Board of Mendoza), emphasized the importance of this event in promoting and recognizing the efforts of local businesses. She noted the high level of participation and the quality of the proposals, reflecting Mendoza’s commitment as a member of the Great Wine Capitals Global Network.
The Best of Wine Tourism Mendoza 2025 gala was not just an awards ceremony but a celebration of the passion, innovation, and dedication that drive the wine tourism industry in Mendoza. It was a night that honored the past, celebrated the present, and looked forward to a future of continued excellence and global recognition.
Photo Credits: Government of Mendoza, EMETUR (Tourism Board of Mendoza) and ProMendoza