The origins
The Zarcillo International Wine Awards were created in 1991, on the initiative of the Junta de Castilla y León, with the aim of setting up a national competition to defend and promote wine quality. Initially, the competition was limited to Spanish wines. The name “Zarcillo” is closely linked to viticulture and oenology, as the zarcillo or “tendril” is the first non-foliar organ of the vine shoot that allows the vine to climb and spread by acting as a support.
During the early editions, the competition was held annually and was open solely to Spanish wines. However, its prestige and growing number of sample entered led to a significant change in 1999, when the Junta de Castilla y León’s Regional Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock turned the competition into a biennial event open to international participants, thereby consolidating its position as a worldwide benchmark for the wine industry.

Our commitment to excellence
At each edition, the participating wines are assessed by a panel of world-renowned tasters, experts with the most demanding palates and professionals with proven expertise in the sector. The rigorous selection process ensures that the winning samples are the finest representation of excellence in the wine industry in both Spain and the rest of the world.
To drive
the production of top quality wines and encourage their responsible consumption.
To promote
the various types of wines that are characteristic of each winemaking region, making them more familiar to end consumers.
To boost
the technical and scientific development of the participating wineries and experts.
To provide
a meeting point for the world’s finest wines.
To contribute
to the spread and enjoyment of wine culture.
International recognition
Since their launch on the international scene, the Zarcillo International Wine Awards have become a major competition for Spanish wines and one of the world’s most prestigious events in this sector.
At each edition, the participating wines are assessed by a panel of world-renowned tasters, experts with the most demanding palates and professionals with proven expertise in the sector. The rigorous selection process ensures that the winning samples are the finest representation of excellence in the wine industry in both Spain and the rest of the world.

The competition is backed by two presitigious international organisations: the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV) and the World Federation of Major International Wine and Spirits Competitions (VINOFED). The support of these entities, which are held in the highest esteem in the wine industry, has been key to consolidating the event’s image as a global benchmark.
The rules stipulate that the competition is open to all winemaking countries, in accordance with the definition adopted by the OIV, whose samples are classified into seven categories: white rosé, red, petillant, sparkling, fortified and aromatic variety. Likewise, the competition grants the following awards: Gran Zarcillo de Oro (Grand Gold Award); Zarcillo de Oro (Gold Award); and Zarcillo de Plata (Silver Award).
Historical overview of previous editions of the Zarcillo International Wine Awards
Historical overview of previous editions.
Find out more about the Zarcillo International Wine Awards!
Explore all about the awards, recipients and history of the awards.