Kullabergs Vingård Immelen 2021 emerged victorious, surpassing top European contenders like France’s Louis Jadot Pouilly-Fuissé 2022 and England’s Langham Culver Classic Cuvée Extra Brut. This success marks a significant step forward for Swedish viticulture, which, though relatively new, is proving to be a formidable competitor on the international stage.
A prestigious panel of experts
Eighteen international wine experts, including world-renowned sommeliers Raimonds Tomsons (World’s Best Sommelier 2023) and Marc Almert (2019 titleholder), evaluated 24 wines in a blind tasting. The panel followed stringent guidelines set by Kristianstad University’s Centre for Food, Health, and Retail, ensuring a thorough and impartial process.
Foto cred: Magnus Skoglöf/The Swedish Wine Tasting 2024
Swedish wines impress
Beyond Kullabergs Vingård’s triumph, other Swedish wines also made an impact. Flädie Vingård’s Midnattssol tied for fifth place with Italy’s Franciacorta Brut, demonstrating Sweden’s growing presence in the global wine market. These results reflect the competitive edge that Swedish wines are gaining, positioning them not just as regional specialities but as genuine challengers to established European producers.
A promising future for Swedish winemaking
The event highlighted more than just competition; it showcased the potential of Sweden’s emerging wine industry. Minister for Rural Affairs Peter Kullgren praised the outcome: “Swedish wine production has the potential to become a valuable agricultural sector, creating jobs and elevating Swedish gastronomy.”
Mikael Mölstad, the event’s initiator, pointed out the unique influence of Sweden’s climate on its wines, stating, “The Nordic light gives Swedish wines distinctive qualities that are beginning to catch the world’s attention.”
Sweden’s place in global winemaking
The success of Swedish wines signals a shift in the global wine landscape. As non-traditional wine regions like Sweden rise, new opportunities emerge for trade, tourism, and innovation. Anna Ek-Gustavsson, Head of Gastronomy Tourism at Visit Skåne, commented, “This investment in wine will drive growth in food tourism and enhance Sweden’s reputation as a destination for high-quality, authentic experiences.”
Foto cred: Magnus Skoglöf/The Swedish Wine Tasting 2024
Scaling up for export potential
As Sweden’s wine production scales up, there’s increasing potential for exports. While Swedish wine may remain a niche product due to its current price point, the real opportunity lies in expanding production. With growing international recognition and a unique Nordic influence, Swedish wine has the potential to make a lasting impact on global markets.
Scoring points top 10 wines:
Place, origin, Wine, Vineyard, Scoring point out of 100
| Place | Origin | Wineyard | Points |
| 1, Sweden | Immelen 2021 | Kullabergs Vingård | 81,81 |
| 2, France | Louis Jadot Pouilly-Fuissé 2022 | Louis Jadot | 81,00 |
| 3, England | Classic Cuvée Extra Brut | Langham Culver | 80,81 |
| 4, France | NV Collection Organic Extra Brut | Nicolas Feuillatte | 80,69 |
| 5, Italy | Franciacorta Brut | Santa Lucia | 80,63 |
| 6, Sweden | Midnattssol | Flädie Vingård | 80,63 |
| 7, Sweden | Aniara Renässans 2023 | Flädie Vingård | 77,44 |
| 8, Sweden | Askesäng 2021 | Kullabergs Vingård | 77,31 |
| 9, France | Chablis Premier Cru Montée de Tonnerre J M Brocard 2021 | Chablis | 75,81 |
| 10, Spain | Arinto dos Acores Sur Lie | Antonio Macanita | 75,50 |