This November, Merano WineFestival returns for its 33rd edition. The festival offers five days of wine and culinary experiences from November 8 to 12, 2024. Known as Italy’s most glamorous wine event, Merano WineFestival is much more than a showcase. It is a hub of innovation, featuring over 1,000 exhibitors and more than 3,000 wines. Guests can also enjoy gourmet offerings, masterclasses, and discussions on the future of viticulture. This year’s theme, “Quo Vadis?”, invites experts and enthusiasts to consider the future of winemaking. They will explore issues like sustainability, innovation, and global expansion.
Spotlight on the WineHunter Stars: Recognizing Excellence in Wine and Beyond
A key highlight of this year’s Merano WineFestival is the WineHunter Star awards. These awards honor individuals who have contributed significantly to the wine industry. Helmuth Köcher, the festival’s founder, will present the awards at the historic Kurhaus. Notable recipients include Italian singer-songwriter Gianna Nannini, recognized for her contributions through her Certosa di Belriguardo estate. Oscar Farinetti, known for his influence on wine communication, will also be honored. Renowned winemaker Riccardo Cotarella, chef Viviana Varese, journalist Anna Scafuri, illustrator Stefano Vitale, and wine manager Valentina Bertini will also receive this distinction.
Intrecci di Vite: Unmissable Tastings at the Prince’s Castle
The “Intrecci di Vite” tastings add unique depth to this year’s festival. Held at the historic Prince’s Castle, these tastings run on November 9 and 10. Oscar Farinetti and Daniele Cernilli will lead four sessions, offering an intimate look at Italy’s leading vintners. Highlights include discussions between Maurizio Zanella of Ca’ del Bosco and Vittorio Moretti of Bellavista. These conversations will feature celebrated Sangiovese wines, Brunello di Montalcino, Chianti Classico, and a selection from Italy’s white wine regions. Each tasting allows attendees to engage with Italy’s heritage through its finest wines.
A Rich Program: Tastings, Bio & Dynamica, and Catwalk Champagne Finale
The festival opens on Friday, November 8, with bio&dynamica, an event dedicated to organic and sustainable wines from 160 Italian producers. The GourmetArena will host top food, spirits, and beer brands, alongside Slow Food’s Earth Market. Throughout the weekend, visitors can taste wines from 330 Italian and 110 international wineries. The festival finale on Tuesday, November 12, brings Catwalk Champagne & More, a celebration of sparkling wines from 120 premium producers. Masterclasses on underwater wines, Piwi grapes, and Italian Metodo Classico, along with showcooking sessions, enhance this year’s festival lineup.
Merano WineFestival’s “Breath and Cry of the Earth” summit brings industry leaders together to discuss the future of viticulture. The summit addresses urgent issues like climate adaptation, sustainable agriculture, and the challenge of engaging new generations of wine consumers. Spanning six sessions from November 8 to 9, experts from the International Viticulture and Enology Society will offer insights into sustainable viticulture, innovation, and future-focused strategies. The summit will close with a manifesto outlining directives for sustainable growth in the food and wine sector.
Beyond Wine: A Feast for All the Senses
The Merano WineFestival truly has something for everyone. On Friday, November 8, the Slow Food Earth Market and curated masterclasses bring gastronomic delights and expert insights to Piazza della Rena and Hotel Terme Merano. Attendees can join themed masterclasses, tastings of Italy’s top wines, and the iconic sabering ceremony on Ponte delle Terme. Showcooking in the GourmetArena will highlight regional dishes from Abruzzo and Campania, created by top chefs such as Franco Pepe and Umberto De Martino. Throughout the festival, masterclasses on Georgian qvevri wines, Albania’s finest labels, and Italian screw-capped wines will add diversity to the tasting experience.
The Merano WineFestival 2024 promises a dynamic blend of elegance, cultural heritage, and innovation, drawing wine lovers and industry experts from around the world to South Tyrol for a one-of-a-kind celebration of fine wine and food.
