González Byass awarded 2022 Sweet/Fortified Wine Producer Trophy

This year, we’re pleased to award the IWSC 2022 Sweet/Fortified Wine Producer Trophy to one of Spain’s most renowned bodegas, González Byass.

For almost two centuries, the name González Byass has been synonymous with sherry production. With famous brands such as Tío Pepe in its portfolio, the company has been integral to the international success of this multifaceted fortified wine style.

“We’ve been pioneers in reviving and raising awareness of traditional sherry making, which otherwise would die out,” the team says. In recent years, the company has brought to market such diverse styles as En Rama on one hand and, on the other, rare, vintage wines which are more than 100 years old. 

“Viña Dulce Nombre is another example of innovation and breaking the classic rules of sherry winemaking,” the team says.  “Sweet vinification of the Palomino Fino grape is incredibly rare.” Rare it may be, but the judges at this year’s awards were certainly receptive to the style, awarding it 95 points.

González Byass’s reach goes beyond sherry and the Andalucia region: the company has invested throughout Spain’s wine industry – from Cava to Rioja – as well as expanding into spirits too. Its raison d’être is to promote the reputation of Spanish produce worldwide, to boost tourism and to promote sustainability in the industry.

“From its inception, González Byass has been committed to protecting the environment. The González family has been instrumental in the preservation one of Spain’s most-prized bird

sanctuaries – the Coto de Doñana,” the team tells us. From its use of 100 percent renewable energy through to sustainability initiatives set up to preserve almost-extinct vines and protect biodiversity, González Byass remains true to its roots, working to ensure its future for centuries to come.

Hats off to the team at González Byass.