Author: Viktorija Graudiņa
Source: Kempinski.com
Stage22 Bar & Restaurant at Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga has received two prestigious international accolades celebrating the excellence of its outstanding wine list. The establishment was awarded a 3-Star Accreditation by The World of Fine Wine during their World’s Best Wine Lists Awards 2025. In addition, Stage22 was also recognised at the 2025 Baltic Wine and Drinks Awards. The wine list is curated by Food and Beverage Director Björn Juhnke.
The World’s Best Wine Lists Awards acknowledge the crucial role that a meticulous wine selection plays in enhancing the modern dining experience. This recognition of curation and originality is among the most respected in the global wine industry. The honour is reserved for establishments whose wine lists are considered world-class, showcasing exceptional vision and quality. Judged on criteria including breadth, depth, height, balance, selection, accuracy, originality, suitability, design and value, the award celebrates not simply excellent wines but the intelligence behind their curation.
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“This 3-star rating signifies the exceptional quality of our wine list curation, making our establishment a world-class destination for wine lovers,” says Carmen Mauthner, Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga General Manager. “A list of this calibre is a compelling reason for a special visit, recognised for its exceptional breadth and depth. It features a very high proportion of leading producers, a wide range of wine styles and prices, an extensive by-the-glass and large-format selection, and outstanding organisation. It shows clear evidence of originality, personality, a guiding intelligence and real vision.”
Complementing the global recognition, the Stage22 wine list has also been named the best hotel-restaurant wine list in the Baltics, with a special mention for the creative wine presentation approach, at the 2025 Baltic Wine and Drinks Awards. These Pan-Baltic awards celebrate wine and drink excellence in Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia. The accolades further position Stage22 as a leader in regional hospitality and wine culture.
The award-winning wine list is curated by Juhnke, whose innovative philosophy encourages guests to ‘pair wine by mood, not food’. This unique approach celebrates individuality and emotional connection, inviting guests to discover wine in a way that transcends traditional pairing rules. The Stage22 wine list exemplifies the difference noted famously by acclaimed wine columnist Francis Percival – “the difference between a great wine list and a mere list with great wines on it” – and Stage22 clearly stands with the former.
Recognised as a lifestyle destination, Stage22 Bar & Restaurant has garnered several prestigious accolades, including Latvia's Best Hotel Restaurant 2024 and a distinguished feature for Japanese cuisine in the 2025 Michelin Guide. The rooftop terrace is located in the heart of Riga and offers breath-taking views of the city and National Opera House.
For reservations, please contact +371 6767 0122 or [email protected]. For parties of more than eight guests, a set menu is recommended.
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