On Monday, November 4, in Sussex, United Kingdom, the world of wine gathered to name the best vineyards on the globe for the new edition of a now celebrated event organized by World’s Best Vineyards 2024. This year, a Spanish vineyard took the top prize but Argentina wasn’t far behind: six wineries appeared in the Top 50 and another six in the Top 100, demonstrating the talent, hard work and innovation that has taken the global wine industry by storm.
In addition, Catena Zapata – who were named top in 2023, thus taking the crown for best winery in the world – were inducted into the prestigious Hall of Fame. They became the second Argentine winery to earn the honor following Bodega Zuccardi in 2022.
World’s Best Vineyards 2024
The annual awards were organized to promote some of the best wine tourism experiences on the planet, evaluated by a panel of 500 experts on wine and tourism. Each member of the jury selects and votes for seven wineries they’ve visited recently, evaluating aspects such as the environment, the quality of service, the architecture, the cuisine and value for money. To participate, wineries must be open to the public so that these experiences are open to all.
This year, six Argentine wineries managed to place among the Top 50. Finca Victoria from Durigutti Family Winemakers was named number 10 – the only Argentine winery to feature in these coveted spots this year – reaffirming the quality and diversity of Mendoza’s viticulture. Durigutti were also honored this year at the Best of Mendoza’s Wine Tourism 2025 Awards, in the categories for Culinary Experiences for their restaurant 5 Suelos – Cocina de Finca, and Sustainable Practices for their overall project, with bronze and silver medals respectively.
The other leading Argentine wineries in the Top 50 were Bodegas Salentein, Mendoza (18th); Matías Riccitelli, Mendoza (26th); El Enemigo Wines, Mendoza (29th); Diamandes, Mendoza (39th) and the only representative of Salta, Bodega Colomé (40th). Each of these wineries has their own approach and style and are not just excellent wine producers but also offer a wide variety of notable wine tourism experiences, their stand out qualities ranging from modern minimalism to respect for local traditions.
In addition to the wineries in the Top 50, six Argentine wineries appeared between numbers 51 and 100 at World’s Best Vineyards 2024. All located in in Mendoza, they reflect the rich diversity of the Argentine wine region. Bodega Lagarde came in 51st; Kaiken Wines 66th; Luigi Bosca 87th; Cheval des Andes 88th; Finca Decero 95th and Huentala Wines 97th.
Hall of Fame and special recognition for Catena Zapata
Catena Zapata were awarded first prize in 2023, and this year were inducted into the Hall of Fame at World’s Best Vineyards 2024. The honor means that the winery can no longer take part in the annual awards, a position reserved only for those who have won it in the past. Catena Zapata aren’t just esteemed for their quality, they’ve also played a crucial role in positioning Argentina on the global stage. Founded in 1902, they pioneered the exploration of new terroirs in Mendoza and helped to make Argentine Malbec a fixture on the global map.
International winners at World’s Best Vineyards 2024
First place in the 2024 edition went to Bodega de los Herederos del Marqués de Riscal in Rioja, Spain. With a stunning building designed by Frank Gehry and a history that dates back to 1858, Marqués de Riscal were worthy winners. The others on the podium were Vik in Chile and Creation in South Africa, demonstrating the variety and talent of wineries across the world.
The importance of World’s Best Vineyards 2024 to Argentina
The recognitions received at World’s Best Vineyards 2024 are much more than reward for the hard work of each individual winery. Argentina has managed to position itself as a world leader in wine tourism thanks to their combination of exceptional terroirs, the art of viticulture, and the professionalism of their industry. The ranking has helped to raise the profile of Argentine wineries not just as producers of quality wines but also world-class holiday destinations. This is undoubtedly a boost for tourism in the wine regions, strengthening the local economy, generating employment and promoting the wine culture of Argentina.
The future of Argentine wine continues to look bright and these wineries are leading the way.
