This year, more than ever, the Merano WineFestival is set to honor the creators of the food and wine world—those who, with dedication and passion, craft unique wines and products that reflect the culture and terroir from which they originate.
As Helmuth Köcher, the festival’s founder, explains, “In ancient times, wine was considered a bridge between man and the divine, a symbol of communion, art, and philosophy. Today, as then, it continues to tell who we are, preserving our identity and uniting people in a universal language.”
Returning to Merano from 7 to 11 November 2025, the festival will host over 1,300 companies and more than 2,000 wines for tasting, alongside 250 labels in the WineHunter Area, 31 masterclasses, 12 showcookings, and 9 talks. Prestigious recognitions such as the WineHunter Platinum Awards and WineHunter Stars will honor standout figures: Franco Bernabei as Best Winemaker, Sebastien Ferrara as Best Wine Manager, Andrea Bocelli as Wine Producer, Antonino Cannavacciuolo as Food Star, James Suckling as Communication Star, and more.
New for 2025, attendees can purchase wines directly via a dedicated digital platform, enhancing the festival’s role as a bridge between tradition and modern accessibility. Partner regions Calabria and Abruzzo will be highlighted, emphasizing Italy’s rich diversity in wine and culinary culture.
The festival theme, “Vision: Wine & Food Creators,” celebrates the innovators shaping the future of taste. Panels and summits, including “Breath and Cry of the Earth,” will explore viticulture, enology, digital innovations, international markets, and the connection between wine and its territory. Special masterclasses will spotlight regional and international wines, from Italian Trebbiano and Franciacorta to Croatian Kvarner and Georgian heritage wines.
Culinary excellence takes center stage in the GourmetArena and Culinaria sections, with showcookings curated by MisteryApple and featuring celebrated chefs such as Antonio Tubelli, Tiziano Palatucci, and Peppe Aversa. Wine and food enthusiasts will also enjoy the CampaniaFelix area, showcasing artisanal creations and contemporary cuisine.
Beyond celebration, the festival addresses the current challenges of the wine industry, from declining consumption to tariffs and market access. Officials including Coldiretti President Ettore Prandini and ITA President Matteo Zoppas emphasized the importance of supporting Italian producers in global markets, while Minister of Agriculture Francesco Lollobrigida highlighted the festival’s role in promoting Italian excellence internationally.
From innovative “bio & dynamica” wines to sparkling Italian Metodo Classico and Champagne, Merano WineFestival 2025 promises a rich tapestry of taste, culture, and vision, honoring the past, celebrating the present, and shaping the future of wine and gastronomy.
Source: WineNews