With the introduction of the Commended special award, wines that previously missed out on recognition due to the strict medal allocation rules will also receive acknowledgment. The aim of this new distinction is to reflect the true quality distribution of the entered wines more precisely and in a more nuanced way, while providing greater visibility for above average quality wines that have so far fallen short of winning a medal.
VinAgora’s regulations are aligned with the strictest standards of international wine competitions set by the OIV, the International Organisation of Vine and Wine. Under these rules, the allocation of medals is limited to a maximum of 30 percent of the wines entered. This system will remain unchanged. At the same time, with the introduction of the Commended special award, a new quality level will be officially recognized. As a result, a further maximum of 30 percent in each main category may receive an official VinAgora distinction, meaning that overall the top 60 percent of the field can receive official recognition of their excellence.
Wines awarded Commended are not merely “good”, but very good. They typically achieve scores above 85 points, in other words at least a silver medal level score, in the evaluations of the international jury. These wines represent above average quality, are technologically flawless, stylistically clean and well defined, and have convincing character. Commended wines often also offer outstanding value for money, which makes them particularly important for consumers, the trade, and the hospitality sector.
The introduction of the Commended special award carries an important professional message. It acknowledges the fact that the field of wine competitions is becoming stronger year by year and that quality differences are becoming increasingly subtle. Many wines are being produced today that may not fit into the narrowest medal categories, yet still represent high quality and express both their producer and their wine region very well.
The Commended award gives these wines a voice and provides them with credible feedback. The distinction will not only appear as a professional evaluation, but also in the form of an official VinAgora Commended sticker, which the producers of the awarded wines may display on every bottle. This visually distinctive marking offers direct assistance to consumers in their choice, serves as a clear quality guide on the shelves, and represents an effective marketing tool for the awarded wineries.
VinAgora continues to regard the Champion award, as well as Grand Gold, Gold and Silver medals, as its highest professional distinctions. At the same time, the Commended special award creates an opportunity for the competition to showcase other outstanding wines as well, and to introduce them more widely to wine consumers.
