Judges tasted about 40 samples per day in the Museo Sebastián Casa Siglos XIX.
By Alfredo Espinola
The 9th edition of Mexico Selection by CMB, presented by Audi, once again ignited the heart of Mexican wine from November 17 to 21 in Chihuahua. This time, the city opened its doors to 40 international judges from nine countries to discover the talent, passion, and deep identity behind the beverages created in Mexico.
For the ninth consecutive year, the competition broke records for the number of entries, proof of an industry that continues to grow, dream, and assert its voice. This event, organized by the Chihuahua Ministry of Tourism and the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles, not only celebrates technical quality; it celebrates the soul behind each bottle, the silent work of those who cultivate, distill, ferment, and believe in their product.
In the emblematic Museo Sebastián Casa Siglos XIX, experts tasted around 40 samples daily, a ritual of absolute attention filled with aromas that awaken memories, colors that tell stories, and flavors that reveal the land where they are born.
In addition to the coveted Silver, Gold, and Grand Gold Medals, the competition awarded the “Revelaciones del México Selección by CMB, presented by Audi” trophies, which distinguish beverages that break the mold and look to the future without losing their roots.
It should be noted that Chihuahua is the fourth largest wine grape producing state in Mexico, so hosting this event for the second time was a recognition of its vocation and drive and, above all, its people. With more than 400 hectares of vineyards, Chihuahua proves that it not only produces wine, it lives it.
“We are very happy to continue positioning Chihuahua on the national and international wine scene,” said Felipe Edibray Gómez Gallegos, secretary of tourism. "We want our visitors to discover our vineyards, our history, our nature. We want them to feel the strength of the Sierra Tarahumara, the revolutionary memory of the south, the grandeur of the north, and the dunes of Samalayuca. Chihuahua is a destination that embraces you with its character."
Participating producers showcased the diversity and richness of the country, with wines made from Nebbiolo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Tempranillo, Malbec, Cabernet Franc, and a wide range of whites such as Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Viognier, Gewürztraminer, and Chardonnay.
Spirits included tequila, mezcal, sotol, gin, whiskey, and liqueurs, while beer participated for the first time with styles that highlighted its creativity and craftsmanship.
“Returning to Chihuahua is a real pleasure,” says Baudouin Havaux, president of the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles. “This land of wide horizons and genuine spirit captivated us from the very first time. Its hospitality and the passion of its producers reflect the authenticity of Mexican wine, spirits, and beer. This state embodies the new vitality of the sector.”
The 2026 edition already has a destination, the city of Puebla, which will take up the baton to continue writing the history of a competition that, more than just rewarding beverages, celebrates the character, territory, and sensibility of Mexico expressed in every drop.