THE GRANDS CRUS OF SPAIN Criteria for Admission to Grandes Pagos de España To be eligible for GPE membership, wines must come from an exceptional estate and single vineyard, have a track record of industry recognition for at least five years, and receive the highest ratings from established wine critics and competitions. New members must pass a rigorous inspection and quality testing process. Existing members are subject to annual blind tasting evaluations conducted by an independent External Expert Tasting Committee (CCEC). These evaluations ensure quality continually meets the GPE’ standards of membership, which can be revoked if a winery no longer meets the criteria.
ESPAÑA DENOMINACIONES DE ORIGEN
DOP: Vino de Pago DOCa DO VC IGP: Vino de la Tierra Vino (de mesa)
Vino de Pago vs. Grandes Pagos de España
(GPE)
Vino de Pago is a wine classification established in 2003 by the Spanish government to recognize select estates with special soil structure. The Vino de Pago legal requirements are based primarily on soil composition. In contrast, GPE membership requires a track record of the highest quality as defined by benchmarks like style, balance, terroir reflection and outstanding winery values. Not all Vino de Pago wineries are GPE members (and vice versa), however, the two designations have a close relationship; many of the GPE founding members advocated for the national legislation that led to the creation of the Vino de Pago designation.
