We're looking for the venues with the best selection of German wines.
Special Award 2027
In 2027, the Association of German Prädikat Wine Estates (VDP) and meiningers sommelier will once again join forces to select the best wine lists showcasing Germany’s finest wines.
The application period for the 2027 “Outstanding Wine Concept” award is now open. Which wine bar, restaurant, or hotel will receive this award this year, signaling to guests that they can expect one of the finest selections of German wines? This commitment is supported by the Association of German Prädikat Wine Estates (VDP) and meiningers sommelier, which have been using this award for years to support sommeliers and restaurateurs in their efforts to promote wine culture.
The focus lies explicitly on the best selection of German wines. In addition to the range, depth of vintages and quality of the wines listed, the criteria also include the design and structure of the wine list, the mix of rarities, regional wines, classics and up-and-coming wines, as well as – last but not least – the distinctive personal touch of the sommelier, host, or restaurant owner responsible for compiling the wine list and advising guests.
The fact that top-quality German wines are admired far beyond the country’s borders is demonstrated not least by the Outstanding wine concepts in other European countries, such as Austria, Switzerland, and, most recently, Italy. We are convinced that there are many more special places around the world where German wines are presented with passion and expertise. That is why we expressly welcome further international applications – whether from Paris, London, Warsaw, New York, or Bangkok. After all, it is not the location that matters, but the quality and appeal of the wine concept.
The best German wine lists will be honored with the title “Outstanding Wine Concept 2027” on Sunday, April 25th 2027, during the official opening of the VDP.Weinbörse in Mainz.
Apply now! Send your current wine list as a PDF to sommelier@meininger.de.
Special Award 2027: Best regional concept
With this special award, we honor the best regional concept. These establishments are often the culinary flagships of a wine region – the showcases for the area’s finest winegrowers. Their wine lists focus entirely on their home region. Which establishment best captures the essence of its wine region through the depth and breadth of its selection?
If you would like to apply for the Special Award, please indicate this on your application and submit a short
video explaining why you are passionate about highlighting a particular wine region (max. 60 seconds).
(The deadline for submitting the application is February 10th 2027).
