VERONA – The 57th edition of Vinitaly, the international wine and spirits exhibition, is set to open its doors at VeronaFiere from Sunday, April 6, to Wednesday, April 9, 2025. This prestigious event is expected to attract over 4,000 exhibiting companies from Italy and 140 countries around the globe, solidifying its status as a pivotal platform for the wine business worldwide.
As Verona transforms into the international capital of the wine sector for four days, the event will feature numerous opportunities for business-to-business meetings, institutional discussions, tastings, and networking moments. The opening ceremony will take place on Sunday, April 6, at 11:00 AM in the Auditorium Verdi (Palaexpo), with speeches from notable figures including Federico Bricolo, president of Veronafiere, and Damiano Tommasi, the mayor of Verona.
During the ceremony, Antonella Sberna, vice president of the European Parliament, will also address attendees. Following the official greetings, a talk led by journalist Maria Antonietta Spadorcia will include discussions with various officials, including the Minister for Agriculture, Francesco Lollobrigida, and other key figures in the Italian wine industry.
Vinitaly is not just a commercial showcase; it is also a venue for discovering trends and innovations in the wine market. This year, attendees can look forward to several thematic areas within the exhibition, including Vinitalybio, which focuses on organic wines, and the International Wine Hall, which will feature emerging wineries from around the world.
Additionally, Enolitech will highlight technological innovations applied to winemaking, while Vinitaly Mixology will delve into the art of mixing drinks with renowned brands and bartenders. Craft beer enthusiasts can also enjoy Xcellent Beers, showcasing artisanal brews.
Another highlight is the Vinitaly Tasting area, which will offer specialized tastings for professionals and operators in the Ho.Re.Ca (Hotel/Restaurant/Café) sector. Over 1,200 buyers from 71 countries are expected to attend, thanks to collaboration with the ICE Agency.
The public will also have the chance to participate in Vinitaly on specific days. On April 6 and April 9, the fair will be open to wine enthusiasts, including amateur sommeliers and non-exhibiting companies. For those looking to explore the city further, Vinitaly and the City will run alongside the main event, featuring tastings, cultural events, and masterclasses throughout Verona.
Tickets for Vinitaly 2025 can be purchased online via the official event website. On the days open to the public, the fair will be accessible from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last entry at 5:00 PM on April 6 and from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM on April 9, allowing access until 2:30 PM.
The Carnet Degustazioni for Vinitaly and the City is available for 20 euros in Piazza dei Signori, where visitors can enjoy a variety of wine tastings.
Traveling to Vinitaly is convenient, with Veronafiere located close to Verona's city center and easily accessible by car or train. Those driving can utilize the highway network, with the A4 Milan-Venice and A22 Brenner-Modena highways providing easy access. Ample parking is available for visitors, but it’s advisable to check local parking regulations.
For those preferring public transport, Verona Porta Nuova station connects to all major Italian cities. Frequent urban bus services link the station to Veronafiere, with numerous lines operating on weekdays and additional services on weekends.
According to a report by Ismea, enotourism in Italy is a significant pillar of the economy, with about 13.4 million Italians opting for wine-themed experiences. This trend highlights the growing importance of wine in travel choices, especially among younger generations. In the first ten months of 2024, Italian wine exports surpassed 6.74 billion euros, marking a 5.7% increase compared to the previous year.
Among the key attractions at Vinitaly 2025 are the masterclasses, tastings, and the Vinitaly Operawine event, which celebrates the best of Italian wines. The event will also include the Vinitaly Design Award, recognizing excellence in wine-related products and packaging.
On Monday, April 7, European Commissioners will be present to engage in discussions about strategic issues affecting the wine sector. Christophe Hansen, the European Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, will participate in a conference addressing the future of the wine industry in Italy and Europe.
Olivér Várhelyi, the European Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare, will also speak on the wine sector's role in a balanced diet and its cultural significance within Europe.
As the event unfolds, attendees can expect a rich program filled with opportunities to network, learn, and experience the best that the global wine industry has to offer. With a diverse range of exhibitors and a focus on innovation, Vinitaly 2025 promises to be an unmissable event for wine professionals and enthusiasts alike.
