CVNE has taken part in the 2026 edition of the Rioja Education Award, an initiative developed in collaboration with Curious Vines and Hatch Mansfield, aimed at fostering the training and professional development of women and non-binary individuals in the UK wine sector.
The programme brought together 60 professionals from across the country, with diverse profiles, ages and career paths, reinforcing its strong commitment to inclusion and representation within the industry.
As part of the award, the 12 finalists took part in an exclusive masterclass led by María Urrutia, CVNE Board Member and fifth-generation family member, alongside Master of Wine Sarah Jane Evans. The session explored the history of the company and its contribution to the development of Rioja wines.
In addition, five selected participants will travel to Rioja to experience the region first-hand and visit CVNE’s facilities in Haro, including the Viña Real and Contino wineries.
This initiative highlights CVNE’s commitment to building a more open, inclusive and socially connected wine sector. Promoting access to knowledge and creating opportunities for professionals from diverse backgrounds is key to ensuring the long-term sustainability and growth of the industry.
Through its collaboration with Curious Vines — a community focused on the development of women and non-binary professionals — and Hatch Mansfield, a leading UK distributor, CVNE contributes to amplifying new voices and perspectives that enrich the sector and strengthen the international positioning of Rioja.