WTA Discovery

WTA Discovery is your gateway to exploring the Wine Travel Awards community. Select a country where you plan to embark on food and wine tours and join us on a journey to uncover the most captivating destinations, exceptional wines, talented winemakers, and charismatic guides. Let’s explore together!

All topics
Editor’s picks
Events
News
Stories of the nominees
Articles & Interviews
Videos
WTA Discovery

Articles & Interviews

Tim Hanni MW: «We are a very myopic and stubborn industry, and I hope to change this» Tim Hanni MW: «We are a very myopic and stubborn industry, and I hope to change this» USA Wine Travel Awards recently had the privilege of speaking with Tim Hanni, a renowned expert in the wine world and one of its longest-serving Masters of Wine. His advice and programs are used by sommeliers at leading American establishments, including the Ritz Carlton, Marriott, Hyatt, and many others. Known for both constructing logical frameworks and challenging prevailing norms, Hanni has rightly earned the moniker "Wine Antisnob". Throughout our conversation, he remained true to his reputation. Continue reading to shift your perspective. More
A conversation with Richard Bampfield MW: Lifelong Learning and a Global Perspective on Wine’s Evolution and Sustainable Future A conversation with Richard Bampfield MW: Lifelong Learning and a Global Perspective on Wine’s Evolution and Sustainable Future United Kingdom In this enlightening conversation, Richard Bampfield MW takes us on a journey through his expansive career in the wine industry, from his formative experiences in retail to becoming a Master of Wine and a leading authority in the sector. Richard reflects on his global perspective, honed through years of international travel and work, which significantly shaped his understanding of wine's evolution and its sustainable future. With a focus on lifelong learning and a deep commitment to promoting sustainability in the wine industry, Richard Bampfield discusses the nuances of wine tasting, market dynamics, and the crucial role of tourism in shaping wine regions globally. His insights offer a rich exploration of the challenges and opportunities facing the wine industry today, making this discussion a must-read for anyone interested in the future of wine. More
Paul Wagner on Wine Tourism, Education, and His Passion for Storytelling Paul Wagner on Wine Tourism, Education, and His Passion for Storytelling USA Today, we have the distinct pleasure of speaking with Paul Wagner, a pivotal figure who has recently joined the jury panel for the Wine Travel Awards 2024-2025. Paul stands out as a venerated leader in the wine industry, particularly celebrated for his extensive work in wine tourism - a field he passionately cultivates. As the founder of Balzac Communications & Marketing, Paul has played a crucial role in elevating global wine brands through his innovative and creative promotional strategies. More
Marinela Ardelean: “Without the involvement of the state there is no true possibility of promoting Romanian wines as a whole, – as a brand itself and as part of the national brand” Marinela Ardelean: “Without the involvement of the state there is no true possibility of promoting Romanian wines as a whole, – as a brand itself and as part of the national brand” Romania Marinela Ardelean has earned the reputation of a bright leader in the world of wine, advocating for a bright future for Romanian wines. Her courage, dedication, and unwavering commitment to defending the interests of Romanian winemaking have earned her comparisons to Joan of Arc, and she could be proclaimed as the Maid of Transylvania. More