Lorraine Williamson
Spain’s sherry heartland has stepped into the global spotlight once again. González Byass, the historic producer behind the world-famous Tío Pepe, has been ranked eighth in The World’s 50 Best Wineries 2025. The guide, published this year by the international edition of Forbes and compiled in collaboration with Virgin Wines, places the Jerez estate among the elite of global wine culture.
This year’s list has been a breakthrough moment for Spain. Only two Spanish estates reached the top 50: Rioja’s Marqués de Murrieta, crowned the best winery in Europe and number one worldwide, and González Byass, the sole representative of the Jerez region. Their presence highlights a growing international appetite for Spanish wine traditions and the renewed prestige of the country’s most storied houses.
A Jerez landmark with deep historic roots
González Byass has been shaped over nearly two centuries. Founded in 1835 by Manuel María González, the business began as a family venture and evolved into one of Spain’s most respected wine dynasties. Today, its cathedral-like ageing cellars and network of courtyards sit at the heart of Jerez’s old quarter, a reminder of how the city’s wine trade helped define Andalucia’s identity.
The Tío Pepe soleras, some of the most recognisable in the world, still anchor the estate. Their iconic white-painted barrels and thick, chalky walls draw visitors from across the globe. For many travellers, stepping inside the complex is as much an architectural experience as a lesson in viticulture.
Jerez de la Frontera: Where sherry, song, and flavour define Spain´s soul
Why global judges ranked González Byass so highly
The selection process for The World’s 50 Best Wineries goes beyond the bottle. Evaluators look at a wide set of criteria: the quality of recent vintages, critical reception, the heritage and influence of each estate, and the strength of its wine tourism offering.
Environmental credentials now carry considerable weight. Sustainability programmes, cultural preservation, and community engagement all form part of the final score. González Byass has spent years investing in responsible vineyard management, energy-efficient technologies, and long-term conservation of its historic buildings—factors that enhance the estate’s standing.
Equally decisive is visitor satisfaction. TripAdvisor, Google reviews, and independent travel platforms contributed data to the ranking. With more than 200,000 visitors a year, the Jerez complex has become one of Spain’s most successful wine destinations, blending education, gastronomy, and immersive storytelling.
Wine tourism has transformed Jerez’s profile
González Byass has long understood that wine is experienced as much as it is tasted. Its estate now hosts one of the country’s most established wine tourism programmes, offering tours of its bodegas, exhibitions, cultural events, and tastings in historic cellars.
The addition of the Pedro Nolasco restaurant—set overlooking the Cathedral of Jerez—has strengthened its appeal for food travellers. Meanwhile, the Hotel Bodega Tío Pepe, the world’s first “Sherry Hotel”, has carved out a niche for guests seeking an overnight stay inside a living wine monument. Rooms overlook courtyards, barrels, and ancient passageways, turning the estate into a complete cultural environment rather than a simple winery visit.
A global ambassador for sherry
Beyond its tourism success, González Byass remains best known for Tío Pepe, widely regarded as the most iconic fino on the planet. The brand has become shorthand for the Jerez style itself, appearing on restaurant lists from Tokyo to New York and acting as an unofficial ambassador for Andalucian wine culture.
In an era when fortified wines are regaining international interest, González Byass continues to use its heritage and scale to promote the region. Its research facilities and experimental vineyards have kept the brand relevant for newer generations of wine drinkers.
A sherry is not just for Christmas
A reassertion of Jerez on the world stage
This latest recognition places Jerez firmly back in the global conversation. For local producers, it demonstrates that centuries-old methods can coexist with innovation. For the region, it strengthens its identity as a cultural and gastronomic destination that competes with the great wine valleys of Europe and beyond.
As global interest in sherry continues to rise, González Byass’s ranking signals more than a celebration of one estate. It marks a turning point for the broader region—a reminder that Andalucia’s wine legacy has modern relevance and international momentum.
Where Jerez goes from here
The ranking will almost certainly draw more visitors to the city and encourage renewed investment in its wine tourism sector. For González Byass, the accolade reinforces nearly 200 years of work and sets a clear path for future generations: protect the heritage, deepen sustainability, and continue elevating the wines that have shaped Jerez’s global story.
Sources: ABC de Sevilla, Wine Up