News Discover What’s New at the 33rd Merano WineFestival 2023 Olivier Watson November 11, 2024 5 min 6 Join the Merano WineFestival from November 8-12, 2024, celebrating wine excellence with tastings, masterclasses, and the inaugural WineHunter Stars awards.The Merano WineFestival: A Celebration of Excellence The Merano WineFestival is set to return from November 8 to 12, 2024. This prestigious event is a highlight in the gastronomic calendar. It brings together wine producers, chefs, and enthusiasts from around the world. This year, the festival will focus on the theme "Quo Vadis?" which translates to "Where are you going?" This theme invites discussions on the future of viticulture. The festival will feature the inaugural WineHunter Stars awards. Seven distinguished personalities will be recognized for their contributions to the wine industry. These awards celebrate individuals who have made significant impacts through passion and dedication. The event promises exclusive tastings and engaging discussions, making it a must-attend for wine lovers. In addition to the awards, the festival will host various masterclasses and events. Attendees can expect to learn from industry leaders and taste exceptional wines. The Merano WineFestival is not just an event; it is a celebration of culture, innovation, and sustainability in the wine sector. The WineHunter Stars: Honoring Excellence in the Wine Industry The WineHunter Stars awards will take place during a gala dinner on November 8. Helmuth Köcher, the festival’s patron, will present the awards. This year, the awards will honor seven remarkable figures in the wine world. Each recipient has demonstrated exceptional commitment and creativity in their field. The awardees include: Gianna Nannini: Recognized as a Wine Producer for her artistic success and dedication to winemaking. Oscar Farinetti: Awarded as Communication Star for his innovative marketing strategies. Viviana Varese: Honored as Food Star for her culinary excellence and entrepreneurial spirit. Riccardo Cotarella: Celebrated as Winemaker of the Year for his contributions to enology. Anna Scafuri: Acknowledged as Wine & Food Journalist for her insightful storytelling. Stefano Vitale: Recognized as Wine Artist for his impactful label designs. Valentina Bertini: Awarded as Wine Manager for her leadership in high-end dining. These awards highlight the diverse talents within the wine industry. They also emphasize the importance of innovation and storytelling in promoting wine culture. Exclusive Events: "Intrecci di Vite" at the Castello Principesco A new feature of the 2024 festival is the "Intrecci di Vite" events. These exclusive gatherings will take place at the stunning Castello Principesco. The events will include discussions led by industry experts and renowned winemakers. Top New Rye Whiskeys Recommended by 11 Bartenders November 14, 2024 6 Russian Counterfeiter and Fake Italian Wine Bottles November 12, 2024 7 Boutinot Joins Bottle Weight Accord for Sustainable Practices November 15, 2024 6 On November 9, Oscar Farinetti will moderate a unique conversation between two Franciacorta pioneers. Maurizio Zanella of Ca’ del Bosco and Vittorio Moretti of Bellavista will share their insights. Later that day, a session will focus on the Sangiovese grape, featuring Donatella Cinelli Colombini and Barone Francesco Ricasoli. The following day will feature two more engaging discussions. Silvio Jermann and Hans Terzer will discuss Italian white wines. Additionally, Riccardo Cotarella and Renzo Cotarella will explore the evolution of Italian winemaking. These events promise to provide valuable knowledge and foster connections within the wine community. The Merano WineFestival is not just about tasting wines; it is about celebrating the stories behind them. The "Intrecci di Vite" events will deepen attendees’ appreciation for the art of winemaking. The Future of Viticulture: Addressing Challenges and Innovations The central theme of this year’s festival, "Quo Vadis?", addresses the challenges facing the wine industry. Climate change, sustainability, and shifting consumer preferences are pressing issues. The summit "Respiro e Grido della Terra" will explore these topics through a series of discussions. Experts from the International Viticulture and Enology Society will lead the conversations. They will focus on adapting viticulture to a changing climate. Topics will include sustainable practices and the use of resistant grape varieties. At the conclusion of the summit, a manifesto will be created. This document will summarize the insights gained during the discussions. It aims to provide a roadmap for the future of the wine industry. The Merano WineFestival is committed to fostering innovation and sustainability. By addressing these critical issues, the festival aims to inspire positive change in the wine sector. A Rich Program of Events: What to Expect The Merano WineFestival will feature a packed schedule of events. Over five days, attendees can participate in various tastings, masterclasses, and discussions. The festival will showcase more than 1,000 exhibitors and over 3,000 wines. On November 8, the Mercato della Terra will take place in Piazza della Rena. This market, organized by Slow Food Alto Adige, will highlight local produce. Additionally, there will be masterclasses focusing on various wine styles and regions. The festival will also include the prestigious WineHunter Awards Platinum ceremony. This event will recognize the best wines, spirits, and food products. Special awards will be given for innovation and excellence in the industry. Throughout the festival, attendees can enjoy showcooking events. Renowned chefs will present their culinary creations, showcasing regional flavors. The GourmetArena will be a hub for food and wine pairings, enhancing the overall experience. The Merano WineFestival promises to be an unforgettable celebration of wine and gastronomy. With its diverse program, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Tickets and Accreditation: Join the Celebration Tickets for the Merano WineFestival are now available online. Attendees can purchase single-day tickets or multi-day passes. This flexibility allows guests to tailor their experience to their interests. Accreditation is also open for industry professionals and media representatives. This ensures that those who contribute to the wine sector can participate in the festival. The Merano WineFestival is a unique opportunity to connect with industry leaders. It is a chance to discover new wines and culinary delights. Whether you are a wine enthusiast or a professional, this festival offers something special. In conclusion, the Merano WineFestival is a celebration of excellence in the wine industry. With its focus on innovation, sustainability, and storytelling, it promises to be an inspiring event. Join us from November 8 to 12, 2024, for this extraordinary experience. Photo by David Köhler on Unsplash Source: Vinodabere – Le novità del 33° Merano WineFestival (8-12 novembre) WineFestival Olivier Watson Olivier Watson is a passionate food and travel enthusiast with a particular fondness for rosé wine. Hailing from a vibrant culinary background, Olivier has spent years exploring the world’s most renowned wine regions, from the picturesque vineyards of Provence to the sun-drenched hills of Napa Valley. His love for rosé is not just about the wine itself; it’s about the experiences and memories created over a glass with friends and family. Top Editors’ Picks for November 2024 New English Sparkling Wine: Sugrue South Downs & Wanderlust Is Britain Embracing Low-Calorie Beer Trends? 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