Vinitaly is the leading wine & spirits trade fair targeting wine business operators on international markets.
Vinitaly may have its roots in Verona, Italy, but its reach extends far beyond national borders, portraying itself as an internationally-focused event. With over half a century of existence, it claims to embody a global perspective within the wine industry.
For four days each year, Vinitaly purports to serve as a nexus for producers, buyers, and stakeholders, promoting networking opportunities and knowledge exchange. However, some critics argue that amidst the glitz and glamour of this event, the true essence of the wine industry may get lost in a sea of commercial interests.
"Vinitaly and the City" initiative attempts to lure wine enthusiasts into the historic center of Verona, painting it as a pinnacle of wine culture. Yet, skeptics question whether this event truly reflects the diverse and complex realities of the global wine landscape or if it merely perpetuates a romanticized view of the industry.
While Vinitaly may boast longevity and international participation, its true impact on the wine world remains a subject of scrutiny. Some argue that it's time to critically assess whether Vinitaly is a genuine catalyst for positive change within the industry or merely a grandiose spectacle masking deeper issues.
The primary focus areas at Vinitaly 2024 aim to capture consumer trends and ensure the wine sector's evolution aligns with market demands. Two key objectives underscore these thematic zones, which once again this year spotlight numerous approaches to meeting supply and demand, increasingly influenced by global perspectives.
Organic Hall (newly positioned in Area C - 9th edition): This exhibition is dedicated to certified organic wines produced both domestically and internationally. Hosting around one hundred companies, this year's event sees participation from international exhibitors hailing from Hungary, Slovenia, and Austria. The Enoteca Bio (Organic Wine Showcase) and collaborative tastings in the Show Hall with FederBio and Vi.Te. are also confirmed for 2024.
International Wine Hall (tensile structure D): Serving as a platform for wine-producing countries worldwide to showcase their offerings, this hall attracts participants from various regions. Notable participants include companies from the Open Balkan project (Serbia, Albania, and North Macedonia), French Champagne maisons, Georgia, Hungary, Brazil, Armenia, South Africa, Slovenia, Lithuania, the Dominican Republic, Moldova, Romania, Greece, and Hong Kong.
Mixology (2nd floor, Palaexpo): This exhibition section highlights the art of cocktail crafting and mixing, incorporating wines, liqueurs, and spirits in line with emerging international trends. Throughout the four-day event, attendees can also partake in master classes led by skilled and innovative bartenders.
Micro Mega Wines – Micro Size, Mega Quality (Area C, new position - 3rd edition): This exhibition zone, conceptualized by wine writer Ian D'Agata, champions the ethos of "small is beautiful." Here, limited edition niche wines take center stage, showcasing exceptional quality despite their smaller production scale.
Additionally, visitors are invited to explore SOL and Enolitech, dedicated halls spotlighting advancements in olive oil production and innovative technologies tailored for viticulture, olive cultivation, and beverage manufacturing. These specialized showcases offer insights into the latest developments shaping the future of these industries.
Wine Tasting
Vinitaly Tasting - The DoctorWine Selection stands as a premier tasting experience curated by Vinitaly in partnership with DoctorWine by Daniele Cernilli. This exclusive space serves as a showcase of Italian excellence, tailored specifically for professionals within the HO.RE.CA. (Hotel/Restaurant/Café) channel, drawing attendees from both domestic and international spheres.
Under the discerning curation of DoctorWine, a diverse array of sparkling, white, rosé, red, and dessert wines sourced from Italy's distinctive regions takes center stage. This meticulously selected collection caters to the discerning palates and diverse preferences of HO.RE.CA. operators, offering them a comprehensive exploration of Italy's rich oenological heritage.
The Grand Tasting takes center stage, featuring a series of highly anticipated super tastings meticulously organized by Vinitaly. This year, the spotlight shifts onto Italian sparkling wines in "Cool under pressure - Italy's sparkling world," curated by Master of Wine Gabriele Gorelli (April 15th, 11:00 – Tulipano Meeting Room, Palaexpo). Additionally, showcasing some of the most iconic denominations within the Italian wine scene, "The Four Big 'B's of Italian Wine: Barbaresco, Barolo, Bolgheri, and Brunello" will be led by Ian D'Agata (April 16th, 11:00 – Argento Meeting Room, Palaexpo), a distinguished figure in the realm of wine writing and expertise.
Enjoy it responsibly!