Sergio Martínez Named Best Fortified Winemaker of The Year 2024

Sergio Martínez, winemaker and capataz of Bodegas Lustau, is crowned the best in London.

Jerez, 11 july 2024. Sergio Martínez traded the albero soils for the red-carpet last night at the 2024 International Wine Challenge. At a gala held in London, Lustau’s winemaker and capataz was recognized as the Best Fortified Winemaker of 2024. This prestigious global competition brings together top wine experts from over 40 countries, forming an exceptional jury to designate the best wines and professionals of the year.

This is the sixth time Sergio Martínez has received this recognition, placing him at the forefront of global winemaking. With more than 21 years of experience at the bodega, Sergio walks the aisles floored with albero looking after every single cask and tasting the different styles of wine “as if they were my own children, always on the lookout for their evolution and focusing on bringing out the best in each one,” he explains.

He worked hand in hand with the also multi-awarded Manuel Lozano, the previous capataz of the bodega. For 13 years, he walked alongside him through the rows that make up the soleras of Lustau, with chalk and venencia in hand. Over a decade spent analyzing, understanding, and caring for the treasures and secrets Lustau holds. In 2016, Sergio took on the exciting project of leading the team of Bodegas Lustau.

Born in San Fernando (Cádiz), Sergio Martinez has always been connected to the world of wine. “I have very fond memories. I will never forget the donkey rides I took with my grandfather from home to the vineyard to spend the whole day there with my family. I really had a great time,” explains this winemaking enthusiast, who also shares a passion for nature, photography, and snorkeling.

This recognition to Sergio Martínez adds to the fantastic results achieved by Bodegas Lustau in the current edition of the International Wine Challenge. With 36 awards, 10 gold medals, and a ‘Trophy’ in the Pedro Ximénez category for Lustau VORS Pedro Ximénez, Lustau emerges as the most awarded Spanish winery in this prestigious wine competition.