The Alto Adige Wines Consorzio Honors James Suckling with Special Wine Culture Award

New York, NY, August 27, 2025 – The Consorzio Alto Adige Wines is proud to announce that it has awarded  James Suckling, one of the world’s most influential wine critics, with its special Alto Adige Wine Culture Award. For over four decades, Suckling has championed the evolution and rising quality of Alto Adige wines, sharing his expert insights worldwide and making a significant impact in both the U.S. and Asian markets.

James Suckling’s career spans more than 30 years, including a key role as European editor-in-chief for Wine Spectator, one of America’s leading wine publications. His deep expertise in Italian wines has made him a trusted voice for American consumers seeking quality and authenticity.

“When James first encountered Alto Adige wines in the early 1980s, the region was undergoing major transformation,” said Andreas Kofler, President of the Consorzio Alto Adige Wines. “He has witnessed and documented the remarkable rise of Alto Adige’s wine industry, offering critical yet passionate coverage that has helped position these wines on the world stage.”

Since 2010, Suckling has expanded his influence through his own digital platform, jamessuckling.com.  "There, you’ll find not only our wines, but also in-depth ratings, stories, and videos that spotlight Alto Adige wines and offer rich insights into the region’s wine industry and culture," explained Eduard Bernhart, Director  of the Consorzio Alto Adige Wines. “His endorsement is invaluable for Alto Adige’s reputation, especially in the highly competitive U.S. market.”

"This award is also a sign of our gratitude," Andreas Kofler added, "for the ever-watchful and—when necessary—critical eye with which he has followed, and continues to follow, the development of Alto Adige wine culture: without a scolding finger, without blinkers, but with passion and a great deal of commitment."

The Wine Culture Award was formally presented on August 26th at a special ceremony honoring James Suckling and attended by leading figures of the Consorzio Alto Adige Wines.

In the picture: Andreas Kofler, president Consorzio Vini Alto Adige & James Suckling. CREDIT: © Südtirol Wein / ChristopherKröll