In a groundbreaking move for wine connoisseurs and industry insiders worldwide, the 5StarWines & Wine Without Walls event is set to revolutionize the wine judging scene during its 2024 edition. Scheduled to prelude the prestigious Vinitaly in Verona, this event has added an innovative twist to its program—the first-ever judge-led masterclass. On April 16th, wine enthusiasts will gather to glean insights from the General Chairs of the Selection, marking a significant first in the event’s history.

The 5StarWines & Wine Without Walls event, now in its eighth iteration, has consistently distinguished itself as a beacon of winemaking excellence. By assembling over 2300 wines from more than 600 wineries worldwide, the event underscores the diversity and dynamism inherent in the global wine industry. A meticulously selected panel of 62 judges, hailing from every corner of the globe, undertakes the enormous task of evaluating each wine. Their expert analyses culminate in the coveted placement of the top scoring wines in the 5StarWines – the Book 2025, a respected reference published in both paper and digital formats that features detailed tasting notes and scores.

This year’s introduction of a judge-led masterclass represents an unparalleled opportunity for participants. Set to feature the 7 “Top Scorer” wines in various categories—including best white, rosé, red, semi-sparkling, sparkling, sweet, and fortified wine—this masterclass promises to unveil the complex process and meticulous methodology behind the event’s scoring system. Attendees will be granted exclusive access to the thoughts and techniques of the judges, offering a unique perspective on what distinguishes a top-scoring wine in the eyes of leading industry professionals.

Following the masterclass, at 5:00 pm, the event will proceed with the proclamation ceremony for the 25 5StarWines & Wine Without Walls 2024 Trophies. This segment not only celebrates the winning wines and their producers but also emphasizes the communal spirit of the wine industry, inviting all interested parties to join in the festivities. A walk-around tasting featuring the award-winning wines will enable direct interaction between the winners, judges, and event attendees, further enriching the experience.

The significance of 5StarWines & Wine Without Walls extends far beyond its role as a competition. Organized by Veronafiere, the heart of Italy’s wine fair scene, the event serves a pivotal role in promoting high-quality wineries to an international audience. By providing a platform for wineries committed to enhancing their products, the guide facilitates connections between producers and global buyers, thus elevating the profile of select wines on the world stage.

As Verona gears up to host this landmark edition, the judge-led masterclass stands out as a testament to the evolving landscape of wine appreciation and education. By sharing the inner workings of wine evaluation with a wider audience, 5StarWines & Wine Without Walls 2024 is set to make an indelible mark on the global wine community, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the art and science behind winemaking excellence.