Portugal is set to host the Spirits Selection by Concours Mondial de Bruxelles (CMB) for the first time in the competition’s history. Scheduled from 16–18 October 2026, the 28th edition will take place on the island of Madeira. The event will convene a jury of over 100 international specialists to conduct blind tastings across all major spirit categories.
A Landmark Debut for Portugal
Madeira’s selection as the host venue is deeply rooted in its legacy as a pivotal hub for Atlantic spirits trade. Historically, the archipelago played a vital role in early sugarcane cultivation and the development of rum production techniques.
Today, Madeira remains a vital North Star in the global spirits landscape, offering a peerless backdrop for an event dedicated to honoring excellence, diversity, and true authenticity. This 2026 edition serves as a bridge between the island’s rich heritage and its enduring influence on modern craftsmanship.
Rum da Madeira Takes Center Stage
This competition will bring significant attention to Rum da Madeira, Portugal’s only rum with Geographical Indication (GI) status. Since its formal recognition in 2021, the category has seen increased international visibility.
“Madeira is therefore not a symbolic choice, but a relevant one,” notes Ulric Nijs, Director of Spirits Selection by CMB. “Rum production and consumption are deeply rooted in the island, supported by a strong hospitality culture well suited to hosting one of the most international events in the spirits industry.”
Camara de Lobos, Madeira: Pic Credit - Madeira Tourism
From Heritage Maturation to Cultural Rituals
The island’s influence transcends distillation, extending into the sophisticated realm of contemporary maturation. Madeira casks, renowned for their exceptional stability and longevity, are shaped by the unique estufagem process of controlled heating and oxidative aging. These seasoned casks are now among the most coveted vessels in the world for finishing premium whiskies and rums, imparting a distinctive character forged by centuries of maritime trade.
Beyond the barrel, the event celebrates the island’s living social traditions, most notably poncha. This 19th-century staple, a masterful blend of Rum da Madeira, honey, and citrus juice, serves as a testament to the deep-seated cultural integration of rum within the region’s social fabric.
Elevating Portuguese Spirits on the Global Stage
Tiago Freitas, President of IVBAM, noted that hosting an event on this scale is an “unprecedented occasion” for the country. He emphasized that the competition offers a unique platform to showcase the “ancestral know-how” of local producers to the world’s most demanding specialists and international markets.
