The Spanish Wine Academy, a project spearheaded by Ramón Bilbao, made history on May 16, 2024, by hosting the first-ever U.S. Spanish Wine Master Competition at Mercado Little Spain's Spanish Diner in New York City. Alberto Martinez Interiano, a Seattle-based wine communicator, writer, and educator, emerged victorious, securing the grand cash prize of $5,000 USD and the opportunity to compete for the Global Spanish Wine Master title in Spain this fall during Ramón Bilbao’s centenary celebration.

Judged by Ramón Bilbao's Chief Winemaker Rodolfo Bastida, Director of Wines from Spain Katrin Naelapaa, and Wine Director of José Andres Group Jordi Paronella, the competition highlighted the richness and diversity of Spanish wine. “We truly enjoyed hosting the competition that brings the world closer to Spanish wine in the U.S. for the first time ever in honor of the 100th anniversary milestone for Ramón Bilbao,” said Rodolfo Bastida. “Alberto revealed his expertise and deep knowledge of Spanish wine while impressing myself, Katrin, and Jordi, who had a fantastic time deliberating during the competition and crowning the first U.S. Spanish Wine Master.”

The competition began with over 180 participants taking an online test on various aspects of Spanish wine. The top 30 semi-finalists moved on to a hybrid-format Livestream event, and ten finalists competed in person in New York City, showcasing their skills before a live audience. The event concluded with a mixer featuring Spanish tapas by José Andres and Ramón Bilbao wines, celebrating the expertise and passion of the participants.

Alberto Martinez Interiano, who teaches WSET and Wine Scholar Guild courses, and runs a consultancy connecting Spanish producers to U.S. importers, will now join winners from other countries in Haro, Rioja, in October 2024 for the grand finale. This competition not only celebrates Ramón Bilbao’s 100th anniversary but also reaffirms its commitment to promoting the global appreciation of Spanish wines.

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