Wine Enthusiast

New York – October 16, 2026 -- Wine Enthusiast has named Sicily its 2026 International Wine Region of the Year at the 27th Annual Wine Star Awards, which honor individuals, companies and regions in the wine and beverage industry.

Consortium president calls the award a platform for Sicilian wine abroad

Alessio Planeta, President of the Consorzio di Tutela vini DOC Sicilia, called the recognition a "tremendous honor" and an opportunity to keep promoting the identity and quality of Sicilian wine internationally.

Sicily's native grape portfolio exceeds 70 varieties

The island grows more than 70 indigenous varieties, including Grillo, Catarratto, Inzolia, Grecanico, Nero d'Avola, Frappato and Nerello Mascalese. Styles range from saline coastal whites to volcanic reds. Etna is the island's most internationally recognized territory, while Vittoria, Marsala, Noto and Pantelleria also produce wine.

Montepulciano, Italy – September 17, 2026 -- Avignonesi, Italy's largest fully biodynamically certified wine estate, has been nominated for European Winery of the Year in Wine Enthusiast's 2026 Wine Star Awards, marking the estate as the sole Italian producer selected in the category.

Avignonesi stands as the only Italian nominee among European contenders

The nomination recognizes the historic Vino Nobile di Montepulciano D.O.C.G. producer for its scale of responsible viticulture and long-term land stewardship. Winners for the 27th annual Wine Star Awards will be announced at a black-tie gala in January 2027.

New York – September 16, 2026 -- Karas Wines, an Armenian winery founded in 2004, has been nominated for 'New World Winery of the Year' in the 2026 Wine Enthusiast Wine Star Awards, marking a milestone for the country's wine sector on the international stage.

Karas cultivates over 400 hectares at elevations above 1,300 meters in Armenia's Ararat Valley

The estate, located in the Armavir region, grows both indigenous Armenian grapes and international varieties in mineral-rich volcanic soils. Karas has supported ampelographic research identifying more than 120 indigenous Armenian grape varieties, including Areni and Sireni, combining traditional clay vessel fermentation with modern viticulture.

Winery became first in Armenia to certify an organic vineyard

Karas has invested in solar energy, advanced drip irrigation and digitally managed water systems to address vineyard management challenges in the semi-arid Ararat Valley climate.