Early Bird Ends
January 31, 2025
Judging
Date
May 19, 2025
Winners Announcement
June 10, 2025
Carolina Wine Brand, a distinguished name in the South American wine industry, has consistently demonstrated a commitment to quality and innovation that resonates on a global scale. This dedication has earned them recognition at prestigious international competitions, including the Sommeliers Choice Awards.
The Sommeliers Choice Awards is a prominent competition that celebrates wines specifically curated for the on-premise sector, emphasizing selections that excel in restaurants, bars, and hospitality venues. Wines are judged on several key criteria, including food pairability, typicity, quality, value, and packaging, with a focus on consumer experience and satisfaction.
Carolina Wine Brand’s performance at the Sommeliers Choice Awards highlights their ability to craft wines that not only meet but exceed the expectations of sommeliers and wine enthusiasts alike. Their wines are celebrated for their distinctive character, balance, and unique expression of South American terroir, making them a preferred choice for sommeliers seeking to enhance their wine lists with high-quality selections.
Participation in the Sommeliers Choice Awards has further solidified Carolina Wine Brand's reputation in the U.S. market, providing them with a platform to showcase their exceptional wines to a broader audience. This recognition serves as a testament to their unwavering pursuit of excellence and their ability to create wines that are both innovative and true to their roots.
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As Carolina Wine Brand continues to expand its presence in the U.S. through partnerships like the one with González Byass USA, its accolades from the Sommeliers Choice Awards underscore its position as a leading producer of premium wines that are perfectly suited for the refined palates of today's discerning consumers.
A recent partnership between González Byass USA and Carolina Wine Brand makes these award-winning wines more accessible to Sommeliers in the USA.
González Byass USA is a Chicago-based importer of a strategically selected portfolio of fine wine and spirit brands from around the world including Spain, Chile, Italy, and Austria. González Byass USA is the US subsidiary of González Byass headquartered in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain. González Byass is a family-owned, collection of wineries founded in 1835 which spans across Spain’s most important wine-producing regions.
Conte Brandolini: Conte Brandolini Pinot Grigio Ramato won best Pino Grigio at 2024 Sommeliers Choice Awards
The alliance between González Byass USA and Carolina Wine Brand represents a significant step in the expansion of both companies in the U.S. market. Known for their exceptional craftsmanship and commitment to quality, Carolina Wine Brand's offerings will complement González Byass USA's existing portfolio, which includes renowned labels such as Tio Pepe, Beronia, and The London No. 1 Gin.
Bill Scholl, President of González Byass USA, stated, "We are excited to partner with Carolina Wine Brand, a company that shares our dedication to excellence and sustainability. This collaboration allows us to offer U.S. consumers an even broader range of wines that reflect the unique terroir and winemaking traditions of South America."
The partnership will focus on introducing key Carolina Wine Brand labels to the U.S. market, including their flagship *Gran Reserva* and *Reserva* lines, known for their rich, complex flavors and innovative production techniques. These wines will be available through González Byass USA’s extensive distribution network, ensuring that wine enthusiasts across the country can enjoy the exceptional quality and distinctive character that Carolina Wine Brand is celebrated for.
Mario Prieto, CEO of Carolina Wine Brand, commented, "Joining forces with González Byass USA is a natural fit for us. Their expertise in the U.S. market and strong distribution channels will allow us to reach a wider audience, bringing our wines to new consumers who appreciate quality and sustainability."
This partnership is expected to strengthen both companies' presence in the U.S. wine market, providing consumers with access to a diverse range of premium wines that are perfect for any occasion. The collaboration also underscores the commitment of both González Byass USA and Carolina Wine Brand to sustainability, with both companies focusing on eco-friendly practices throughout their production processes.
2023 Chateau St. Roch Old Vines Rose: TASTING NOTES: Highly aromatic with ripe strawberry and cherry, floral hints, a palate of watermelon, raspberry, and grapefruit peel, and a clean, mineral finish. 95 points. Gold medal. Rose of the year by the glass.
Image: 2023 Chateau St. Roch Old Vines Rose
2022 Conte Brandolini Pinot Grigio Ramato: TASTING NOTES: Rich in character with vibrant acidity, this wine features a pleasant copper hue, fresh citrus, and a hint of red fruits, delivering excellent value and a lively finish. 95 Points. Pino Grigio of the year.
Image: 2022 Conte Brandolini Pinot Grigio Ramato
2022 Vina Casablanca Nimbus Sauvignon Blanc: TASTING NOTES: Light herbaceous notes with lemon juice and cheese rind, this wine has punchy acidity and citrus pith flavors, with a bright mineral and slight barnyard nose. 94 points. Gold Medal. Chilean wine of the year.
Image: 2022 Vina Casablanca Nimbus Sauvignon Blanc
2022 Finca El Origen Malbec: TASTING NOTES: Deep and dark with robust fruits, mocha, and baking spices, this dry, full-bodied wine offers layers of fruit and spice, making it perfect for beef stew. 90 points, gold medal.
Image: 2022 Finca El Origen Malbec
2019 Gianni Gagliardo Barolo: TASTING NOTES: Cherry-cola and rose petal nose with prune, leather, and curing spices, balanced tannins, and a classic finish of cherry, roses, and leather. 95 points, gold medal.
Image: 2019 Gianni Gagliardo Barolo
2018 Il Poggiolo Brunello Di Montalcino DOCG: TASTING NOTES: Aromas of blackberry and cherry with cocoa, herbs, and spices, this round and ripe wine has a smooth palate, rich fruit, and herbal complexity, perfect for tomato-based pasta and aged cheeses. 91 points, gold medal.
Image: 2018 Il Poggiolo Brunello Di Montalcino DOCG
González Byass USA is a subsidiary of the González Byass family of companies, a global leader in the production and distribution of fine wines and spirits. With a portfolio that includes iconic brands such as Tio Pepe, Beronia, and The London No. 1 Gin, González Byass USA is dedicated to bringing exceptional products to the U.S. market.
Carolina Wine Brand is a distinguished South American wine producer known for its innovative winemaking techniques and commitment to sustainability. With a focus on quality and authenticity, Carolina Wine Brand offers a range of wines that reflect the unique terroir and heritage of their vineyards.
2025 Sommeliers Choice Awards submissions is now open for domestic and international wines. Enter your Wines now to get the early bird pricing.