What Is The Blue Roses?

The Blue Roses is a public-facing, free-to-access annual awards programme designed specifically to showcase the very best Italian wine buys.

Our Approach

Founded by independent wine writer and critic Paul Caputo, The Blue Roses builds on his 100-point technical scoring with additional considerations such as value for money, authenticity, availability, sustainability, and storytelling.

The goal is to recognise not only brilliant wines, but also those that bring something fantastic to the Italian wine conversation. Annual selections are accessible free of charge to both the trade and consumers.

Who We Are

The Blue Roses was founded by Paul Caputo, a wine writer and critic with deep expertise in Italian wine. The judging panel is made up of independent professionals — sommeliers, buyers, writers, and educators — selected for their knowledge and freedom from commercial conflicts of interest.

Who Can Enter

Entry is open to Italian producers and their UK importers. We operate an invitation-only system to maintain the quality and focus of the competition. If you'd like to submit wines for consideration, you can apply for an invitation below.