Varaždin Celebrates Sauvignon by Hosting Sauvignon Selection by CMB
From April 7 to 9, 2026, Varaždin, Croatia, will host the Sauvignon Selection by CMB. This internationally renowned event, which brings together leading wine experts from around the world, is the most prestigious competition entirely dedicated to wines made from this iconic grape variety. Approximately 1,000 samples from nearly 25 countries will be blind-tasted by an international panel of 50 judges representing around 25 nationalities.
The results will be announced on April 20 on www.sauvignonselection.com.
A Competition of Global Scale
France, Austria, Italy, South Africa, and New Zealand, major Sauvignon-producing countries, will be strongly represented at this new edition, which will feature around 1,000 samples from 25 countries. Among emerging Sauvignon-producing nations, Croatia, the host country, continues to gain recognition, accounting for 11% of the samples submitted. Countries such as Serbia, Turkey, Slovakia, and Germany have also recorded an increase in their number of entries this year.
An Influential and International Jury
The Sauvignon Selection by CMB remains the leading communication platform dedicated to Sauvignon wines. Over three days, an international panel of tasters, comprising specialized journalists, buyers, consultants, and educators, will evaluate the wines through blind tastings. Their expertise ensures valuable recognition and strong international visibility for the award-winning wines.
Varaždin: A Terroir and Heritage to Discover
Located just one hour north of Zagreb, Varaždin is a remarkable historic town in northern Croatia, renowned for its well-preserved Baroque architecture, refined atmosphere, and rich cultural heritage. Formerly the capital of Croatia in the 18th century, the town offers an elegant setting with its palaces, churches, and the iconic old town fortress.
Beyond its architectural charm, Varaždin stands out as a dynamic cultural and gastronomic hub, offering an excellent quality of life and an inspiring setting for international events.
The surrounding area, Varaždin County, is part of the Central Uplands wine region of Croatia, characterized by rolling hills, diverse soils, and a strong winemaking tradition. The vineyards, planted on well-exposed slopes, benefit from significant temperature variations, promoting freshness, aromatic intensity, and varietal expression.
The region is particularly suited to white grape varieties, notably Sauvignon Blanc, Graševina, Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Yellow Muscat.
Local Sauvignon Blanc wines are distinguished by expressive aromas of citrus and green apple, floral notes of elderflower, vibrant acidity, and an elegant mineral finish, perfectly aligned with international market expectations.
An Immersive Program for Tasters
In addition to the tasting sessions, Sauvignon Selection by CMB will offer judges a rich and immersive experience, including vineyard visits, conferences, meetings with local producers, and gastronomic discoveries, showcasing the richness of Croatian wine culture.
About Sauvignon Selection by CMB
Sauvignon Selection by CMB is the largest international competition exclusively dedicated to Sauvignon wines. Created in Bordeaux in 2010, the event (formerly known as the Concours Mondial du Sauvignon) changes location each year, highlighting exceptional wine regions around the world.
After editions held in France, Italy, Austria, Spain, Portugal, South Africa, and Bulgaria, the competition continues its international journey by showcasing Croatia for the first time. Its high standards and rigorous evaluation process make it a must-attend event for professionals and producers seeking international recognition.
Photos:
Sauvignon Selection by CMB 2026 – Varaždin:
https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCNmYh
Press Contact:
Anne de Bidlot Thorn
anne.debidlot@vinopres.com
