Calgary wine retailer Zyn — The Wine Market has been named International Retailer of the Year by the Brunello wine consortium in Montalcino, Italy.

Zyn is the first Canadian wine shop to receive the prestigious Leccio d’Oro award.

Zyn owner David Dienger was in Italy last week for the presentation ceremony. He says he didn’t believe the news when he received the email announcing that his southeast Calgary store had won.

“I thought it was spam, so I ignored it,” he said.

But a few days later, an industry friend stopped by the store. “She said I have come to tell you that it is true,” Dienger said.

He then responded to the email and booked a trip to Italy for the award ceremony, which took place Nov. 21 at the 34th annual Benvenuto Brunello in Montalcino.

Dienger says he doesn’t know w

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