In Rome with the Istituto Grandi Marchi for the Award to Japanese Journalist Isao Miyajima

Umani Ronchi and the Istituto Grandi Marchi took part in the Rome ceremony for the international award dedicated to leading voices in wine journalism.
This recognition, established to celebrate those who, through their passion and professionalism, contribute daily to promoting Italian wine culture, was this year presented to journalist Isao Miyajima, one of Japan’s foremost wine experts. He received the award “for his commitment, professionalism, and dedication in spreading awareness in Japan of the originality, craftsmanship,
and regional excellence of Italian wine.”

“This recognition is a great honour for me,” said Isao Miyajima. “I lived in Rome from 1983 to 1989 — the years of the so-called Italian Wine Renaissance. I was fascinated by these wines, born from a new philosophy of quality: innovative and modern, yet deeply respectful of tradition. These wines changed my life, and I began to write about them. The producers of the Istituto Grandi Marchi were the protagonists of that vibrant era. I am deeply grateful to them, both for this recognition and for
introducing me to the wonderful world of Italian wine.”

Another milestone in the ongoing commitment of the families of the Istituto del Vino Italiano di Qualità – Grandi Marchi to promoting the excellence of Italian wine, in dialogue with the most authoritative voices in national and international wine journalism.

Over the years, this award has been presented to distinguished figures such as Burton Anderson, Jens Priewe, Monica Larner, James Suckling, and the magazine Wine Spectator.

A few images from the evening, shared with the 18 families representing Grandi Marchi in Italy and around the world.