The Wine Paris & Vinexpo Paris 2024, organized by Vinexposium, is gearing up to be a landmark event in the wine industry, scheduled from February 12 to 14.
This year’s program promises a comprehensive exploration of the industry's key challenges, drawing in 40,000 trade visitors and featuring over 4,000 exhibitors.
With more than 120 debates, panel discussions, and masterclasses, the event is divided into five main categories: Taste, Sustainability, Industry Developments, Innovation, and Low & No.
A Taste for Discovery
One of the most eagerly anticipated categories, "Taste," will immerse attendees in masterclasses that highlight renowned wine regions such as Alsace, Bourgogne (Burgundy), Champagne, Languedoc, Beaujolais, Cognac, Auvergne, Bordeaux, the Loire, and the Rhone Valley. Additionally, there will be a global perspective with focuses on Italy, Australia, Napa, and Turkey. A highlight within this category is the Vinexpo Challenge, a traditional blind tasting competition organized by the International Sommelier Association (ASI), and hosted by renowned sommeliers Raimonds Tomsons and Maria Valeria Gamper.
Sustainability: From the Vineyard to Packaging
Sustainability is a crucial theme, with discussions aimed at exploring whether sustainable practices in wine production are a luxury or a commercial necessity. Fanny Barthelemy will moderate the panel discussion, featuring experts like Gad Pettersson, Eudes Morgan, and Simon Mason. Another key session will celebrate the "100th Anniversary of Biodynamics," hosted by Gérard Bertrand Wines, focusing on the historical and future impacts of biodynamic farming. Additionally, François Gilbert will lead a discussion on "The Impact of a Changing Climate on Terroir-Driven Wines," addressing how climate change is reshaping viticulture.
Industry Developments
This category will cover the latest trends and challenges in the wine business landscape. A notable panel discussion titled "Doing Business in Brexit Britain" will be moderated by Andrew Catchpole, editor of Harpers Wine & Spirit Magazine. The panel will include industry experts such as Miles Beale, Justin Liddle, Nadine Mac Callion, and Chuck Cramer, who will share insights on navigating the post-Brexit market environment.
Innovation
Innovation in the wine industry will be addressed through discussions on data, AI, and Web 3.0. A key panel titled "Wine Labels: Different Perspectives on Innovation and Regulations" will delve into the technological advancements and regulatory considerations shaping wine labeling. Furthermore, attendees can look forward to a keynote interview with Heini Zachariensen, CEO of Vivino, who will share his insights on the future of wine retail and technology.
The Growth of Low & No Drinks
The increasing popularity of low and no-alcohol beverages will be explored in "The Battle of the Sommeliers," which will discuss the role of alcohol-free drinks in the modern wine market. Esteemed sommeliers like Marc Almert, the 2019 Best Sommelier of the World and chef sommelier at Baur au Lac Vins, and Dominique Laporte, the 2004 Best Sommelier of France, along with leading critic Robert Joseph, will offer their perspectives on this growing trend.
Conclusion
Wine Paris & Vinexpo Paris 2024 is set to be a pivotal event for the wine industry, offering a platform for discussion, innovation, and networking. By addressing critical themes such as sustainability, industry developments, and the growth of low and no-alcohol drinks, the exhibition will not only highlight current challenges but also pave the way for future advancements in the sector. Attendees can look forward to a rich program of events that promise to deliver valuable insights and foster meaningful connections within the global wine community.
Source: Vinexposium; Harpers Wine & Spirit