As the anticipation builds for the upcoming 30th edition of Vinistra, the atmosphere in Zagreb was charged with excitement as the event's organizers unveiled a captivating promotional film and introduced a fresh, modern visual identity.
Set to take place from May 10 to 12 in the picturesque surroundings of Poreč, Vinistra promises to be a gathering like no other, bringing together wine enthusiasts and industry professionals from across the globe.
Over the years, Vinistra has evolved into much more than just an exhibition of wine and wine equipment; it has become a cornerstone of the wine community, a symbol of Istrian culture, and a testament to the region's dedication to excellence in winemaking. At the presentation in Zagreb, members of the Business Club 5 shared their anticipation for this jubilee edition, noting the increased demand for accommodations as evidence of the event's growing popularity.
Central to the celebration was the unveiling of a new promotional film titled "Towards Vinistra," which captured the essence of the event's evolution through the perspectives of its three previous presidents: Ivica Matošević, Nikola Benvenuti, and Luka Rossi. Accompanied by a modern visual identity featuring the iconic shape of the Istrian peninsula intertwined with vibrant grape berries of varying sizes and colors, the film symbolized the unity and diversity of the region's winemaking community.
Luka Rossi, the current president of the Vinistra association, expressed his gratitude to past leaders and members for their dedication in shaping Vinistra into what it is today. He highlighted the association's longstanding commitment to promoting Istria's indigenous grape varieties, Malvasia and Teran, which have garnered international acclaim and contributed to Istria's reputation as a premier wine destination.
The significance of Istria as a wine region was underscored by Minister of Agriculture Marija Vučković, who commended Vinistra for its role in promoting the region's wines and fostering generational renewal within the industry. Minister Vučković emphasized the government's continued support for the wine sector, citing investments in primary production, processing, and promotion, as well as plans for further expansion and modernization.
Dragan Kovačević, Vice President for Agriculture and Tourism at the Croatian Chamber of Economy, echoed the sentiment, highlighting Istria's substantial contribution to Croatia's overall vineyard and wine production. He emphasized the importance of Vinistra in showcasing the region's wines on a global stage and attracting visitors to Istria, thereby stimulating economic growth and cultural exchange.
The support from local government officials, including Ezio Pinzan and Mayor Loris Peršurić of Poreč, further underscored the significance of Vinistra's 30th anniversary. They praised the event for elevating Istrian wines to international acclaim and solidifying Poreč's reputation as a premier wine destination.
As preparations for Vinistra's 30th edition continue, sponsors like Plava Laguna and Miva's wine gallery are gearing up to showcase the region's finest wines in collaboration with renowned glassmaker Riedel. Their commitment to enhancing the tasting experience reflects the collective effort to promote Istrian wines and elevate the region's cultural heritage.
In closing, Kristjan Staničić, Director of the Croatian Tourist Board, hailed Vinistra as a driving force behind Istria's growing reputation as a top-tier tourist destination. He emphasized the event's role in promoting wine and gastronomy as integral components of Croatia's tourism offering, thereby attracting visitors and enriching the overall visitor experience.
As the countdown to Vinistra's 30th edition begins, anticipation is running high for what promises to be a celebration of Istrian wine, culture, and community. With its rich history, dedication to quality, and unwavering spirit of innovation, Vinistra stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Istrian winemaking and the boundless potential of the region's vinicultural landscape.