Decanter writer knighted into the Gran Orden de Caballeros del Vino

Decanter contributor Sarah-Jane Evans MW was made a Knight of the Gran Orden de Caballeros del Vino last night.

Evans received the honour in front of 350 members of the Spanish wine trade at a ceremonial dinner at the Dorchester hotel in London.

She is only the fourth woman to become a Caballero in the event's 26-year history, alongside Christine Forner of Marques de Caceres, and wine writers Angela Muir and Charlotte Hey.

Each year, two new members are invested into the Gran Orden for their exceptional contribution to the promotion of quality Spanish wines in the UK.

Pablo Alvarez, head of Vega Sicilia, was also knighted.
 

The order was established in 1984 as a way of promoting and developing Spanish wines in Britain.

Six candidates are proposed for the honour by current members of the order, and the final two are chosen by a secret ballot.

There are currently 60 Knights in the Gran Orden.