Familia Martínez Zabala

Faustino I leads Mundus Vini Summer Tasting with two “Best of Show” awards

Mundus Vini Summer Tasting Best of Show

Bodegas Faustino has earned significant recognition at the latest edition of the Mundus Vini Summer Tasting, one of the most prestigious international competitions in the wine sector. In this edition, two of its wines received the title “Best of Show”, within a blind tasting evaluated by a jury of experts, sommeliers, specialized journalists, and buyers from more than 40 countries.

Faustino I Gran Reserva 75 Aniversario 2016 was distinguished as “Best of Show Rioja Gran Reserva”, and was also the only Rioja Gran Reserva to receive the Grand Gold Medal. Meanwhile, Faustino I Gran Reserva Blanco 2020 was recognized as the best white wine from Rioja.

These accolades, together with several Gold Medals, reaffirm Faustino’s commitment to excellence and consolidate its role as an international benchmark of Rioja viticulture.

A family tribute

Faustino I 75 Aniversario Gran Reserva is a wine that pays tribute to the winemaking tradition of the Martínez Zabala Family. First launched on the market in 2008 to mark the 75th Anniversary of Don Julio Faustino Martínez, this wine has become a symbol of excellence and respect for the winery’s history. Carmen and Lourdes, daughters of Don Julio, comment: “This very special wine pays homage to our teacher and mentor; with each vintage we remember his legacy and dedication to the world of wine.”

Faustino I 75 Aniversario Gran Reserva shows a deep ruby color with garnet evolution. Its bouquet combines fruity notes, vanilla, and sweet spices, creating a complex aromatic experience. On the palate, it offers a vigorous entry and a long, persistent finish, standing out for its complexity and elegance.

Faustino I Gran Reserva Blanco represents the highest expression of the winery’s white wines and is part of the Martínez Zabala Gallery, the most exclusive collection of unique and singular wines of the company.

“This wine is the result of years of research,” the family states. Crafted from a careful selection of Viura and Chardonnay, it follows a modern style that highlights its freshness and complexity, with aromas of stone fruits, flowers, and tropical notes, all harmonized with the elegance of oak and prolonged bottle aging.

Continuing to celebrate success

Other wines from the Martínez Zabala Family wineries were also recognized at the Mundus Vini Summer Tasting. Among the award-winners were Marqués de Vitoria Gran Reserva 2018, Marqués de Vitoria Reserva 2021, Campillo Reserva Colección 2019, and Fortius Reserva 2019, all of them awarded Gold Medals. These distinctions once again highlight the quality and diversity of the Martínez Zabala Family wine portfolio.

In addition to these wine awards, in 2025 Bodegas Faustino was included for the eighth time in the prestigious “The World’s Most Admired Wine Brands” ranking by Drinks International, consolidating its position at number 15 worldwide. It was also recently nominated as one of the top five European wineries by the influential magazine Wine Enthusiast, further reinforcing our standing as global wine leaders.