The Veneto-based winery ranks third overall in Germany, with the entire portfolio recognised for its outstanding consistency and quality among more than 100 international cooperative wineries
Negrar (Verona), 27th July 2026 – Cantina Valpolicella Negrar (link) has secured an outstanding third place overall at the Weinwirtschaft CO-OP Contest 2026 (link), earning a place among the world’s leading wine cooperatives. The prestigious recognition celebrates not a single label, but the exceptional quality and consistency of the winery’s entire portfolio.
Now in its 16th edition, the competition brought together 106 cooperative wineries from around the world. A panel of independent international experts blind tasted 636 wines, with each winery submitting a flight of six wines—one from each category, ranging from entry-level to premium labels—to assess winemaking excellence across every price segment.
The awards were officially presented at the end of June in Deidesheim, in Germany’s renowned Palatinate wine region. The competition is conceived and organised by Weinwirtschaft, one of Europe’s leading wine trade publications and a key reference for buyers, importers and wine professionals, particularly across the German and Northern European markets.
„We are truly honoured to receive this recognition,“ said Giampaolo Brunelli, President of Cantina Valpolicella Negrar (link). „This achievement is the result of the daily commitment and dedication of all our grower members. It demonstrates the strength of the cooperative model in consistently delivering wines of outstanding quality while competing successfully at the highest international level.“
CANTINA VALPOLICELLA NEGRAR
Founded in 1933 by seven winegrowers determined to protect their livelihoods during a challenging period, Cantina Valpolicella Negrar has remained true to its original mission: safeguarding its territory, enhancing its unique identity and preserving its winemaking excellence. Today, the winery produces around 10% of all Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOCG, underlining its pivotal role in shaping the story of the Valpolicella region.
Cantina Valpolicella Negrar is the living expression of a collective legacy that has continued to evolve since 1933, sustained by the commitment of its 245 grower members and by a governance model capable of embracing change while remaining firmly rooted in its values. With more than 140 hectares of certified organic vineyards, an annual production exceeding 8 million bottles, and exports to 62 countries worldwide, Cantina Valpolicella Negrar is today recognised as one of Italy’s most respected and influential wine cooperatives.
