Events Articles - Wine Industry Digest

ProWein Düsseldorf 2026 Launches App and Matchmaking Tool to Streamline Trade Fair Networking

Europe Vinetur Events

ProWein Düsseldorf has launched a new app and matchmaking tool ahead of its 2026 event, making it easier for wine industry professionals to network and find relevant connections before and during the trade fair. The digital innovations aim to streamline meetings between producers, distributors, and retailers at what's one of Europe's most important wine industry gatherings. It's a handy development for anyone planning to attend Europe's major wine networking event.

Vinitaly.USA Is Bringing 2,500 Italian Wines to New York This October

North America VinePair Oct 8, 2026 Events

Vinitaly.USA is bringing an impressive 2,500 Italian wines to New York this October, offering a chance to explore offerings from across Italy's major wine regions. You'll find everything from prestigious Barolos and Amarones to lesser-known gems like aged Pecorino and Alpine Proseccos, all in one place. It's a significant opportunity for importers, retailers, and serious buyers to connect with Italian producers and discover new selections for their portfolios.

Read more From Digest #46

ProWein launches Zero+ zone at trade fair

Europe The Shout Oct 6, 2026 Events

ProWein is expanding its alcohol-free drinks offering at the next trade fair by upgrading its Zero zone into Zero+, which will feature independent tastings, educational sessions, and industry discussions about the future of no-alcohol beverages. It's a significant move that underscores how seriously Europe's major wine trade fair is taking the growing zero-alcohol market segment.

Read more From Digest #46

Chile Wine Fest Makes Its Miami Debut on October 14

South America Wine Industry Advisor Oct 6, 2026 Events

Chile Wine Fest is making its first appearance in Miami on October 14, bringing Chilean producers and wines to one of America's most vibrant wine markets. The event represents an exciting opportunity for trade professionals and enthusiasts to explore the diversity of Chilean offerings and connect with producers in a major U.S. hub.

Read more From Digest #46

Hunter Valley to showcase its heritage vineyards

Australia & New Zealand Gourmetontheroad Oct 6, 2026 Events

Hunter Valley is ramping up efforts to showcase its heritage vineyards, capitalising on growing consumer interest in the region's winemaking history and established traditions. The initiative highlights how established wine regions are using their storied past as a key differentiator in an increasingly competitive market. It's a smart move for attracting visitors and consumers who value provenance and the stories behind their wines.

Read more From Digest #46

Put your old vines to the test

South Africa winemag.co.za Sep 30, 2026 Events

South Africa's NFB Old Vine Report is now accepting entries for its third year, with wines to be judged in a blind tasting by a panel including Wine Magazine editor Christian Eedes and industry specialists. The competition aims to showcase which old-vine wines deliver the most impressive results in the glass. If you've got older vines worth celebrating, it's worth considering a submission.

World-leading wine voices confirmed for Hawke’s Bay conference

Australia & New Zealand The Shout Sep 27, 2026 Events

The Great Wine Capitals International Annual Conference is coming to Napier this October, with Dr John Barker, Director General of the International Organisation of Vine and Wine, confirmed as the headline speaker for Knowledge Day. Barker, a New Zealander and the first Southern Hemisphere-elected OIV Director General, will join an impressive roster of international wine industry figures at what promises to be a significant gathering for wine professionals in the region.

Why regional wine shows matter more than ever in a changing global wine industry

Australia & New Zealand glamadelaide.com.au Sep 24, 2026 Events

As the global wine industry continues to evolve, regional wine shows are becoming more important than ever for producers and traders. These local events offer valuable networking opportunities and a chance to showcase wines directly to key industry figures, helping smaller producers compete in an increasingly competitive market. They're proof that traditional industry gatherings remain essential, even as the sector navigates new challenges around sustainability and international trade.

Orange Wine Festival offers over 40 vinous events

North America Gourmetontheroad Sep 18, 2026 Events

Orange Wine Festival is bringing over 40 vinous events to the region, making it a major draw for wine enthusiasts and industry professionals alike. If you're in the area, there'll be plenty of opportunities to discover new producers, taste across styles, and connect with fellow wine lovers. It's the kind of festival that showcases the diversity and vitality of the current wine scene.

Read more From Digest #43

Book now for the PFS Spring Series 2026 public tasting – Cape Town

South Africa winemag.co.za Sep 16, 2026 Events

Winemag.co.za is hosting a PFS Spring Series public tasting in Cape Town on 6 October 2026, featuring top performing Chardonnays, Cabernet Sauvignons, and Cape Bordeaux red blends from their newly bundled seasonal reports. The walk-around tasting runs from 17:00 to 19:00 at Welgemeend Venue, offering wine professionals a chance to discover standout wines and explore the latest market insights. Bookings are now open.

Read more From Digest #43

Announcing the Michael Fridjhon Wine Judging Academy 2027

South Africa winemag.co.za Sep 16, 2026 Events

The Michael Fridjhon Wine Judging Academy is returning in March 2027, offering a three-day intensive masterclass for wine industry professionals at Devon Valley Hotel in South Africa. Partnered with the University of Cape Town's Graduate School of Business, the programme focuses on teaching participants how to properly evaluate wine's intrinsic qualities. It's an ideal opportunity for those looking to sharpen their tasting and judging skills.

Read more From Digest #43

Heritage and quality shine at Chenin Blanc Top 10 Challenge

South Africa Food For Mzansi Sep 16, 2026 Events

South Africa's Chenin Blanc Top 10 Challenge has celebrated the country's most celebrated white wine varietal, with producers competing to showcase both heritage and quality. The competition highlights the continued importance of Chenin Blanc to South Africa's wine identity and recognition in the global market. It's a good reminder of how regional competitions help elevate standards and give consumers a curated selection of the best examples from the category.

Read more From Digest #43

International Wine Challenge 2026 crowns Champion Wines and Winemakers

You might also like The Shout Sep 9, 2026 Events

The International Wine Challenge 2026 has announced its results, with France dominating the overall medal table by earning 849 medals, including 67 Golds and 14 Trophies. The competition recognises champion wines and winemakers across the globe, making it one of the industry's most prestigious annual benchmarks. These results reflect strong performance from established wine regions and offer valuable insights into current quality standings in the international market.

International judges for wine and brandy at Veritas Awards

South Africa TygerBurger Sep 9, 2026 Events

The Veritas Awards, South Africa's leading wine and brandy competition, has recruited international judges to evaluate this year's entries. This move underscores the competition's commitment to world-class judging standards and reflects the growing global recognition of South African wine quality.

South Australian wineries shortlist for Wine Tourism Awards - theshout.com.au

Australia & New Zealand The Shout Sep 7, 2026 Events

Several South Australian wineries have been shortlisted for the Wine Tourism Awards, recognising excellence in wine tourism experiences. The recognition highlights the region's commitment to visitor engagement and cellar door experiences alongside production quality.

Three reports, one deadline – enter by 2 September

South Africa winemag.co.za Aug 28, 2026 Events

Wine Magazine's seasonal Category Reports are now accepting entries for the Spring Series, with three categories open: Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cape Bordeaux Red Blends. Wines will be judged by a panel including Christian Eedes and specialists from leading retailers, with entries closing on 2 September. The producer of the best wine in each category wins shipping services worth R10,000 from Aspiring Couriers.

Vineyards launch first ever Malvern Hills Wine Festival

UK Malvern Gazette Aug 20, 2026 Events

English vineyards in the Malvern Hills have announced the first ever wine festival for the region. This is a new event that should give local producers a chance to showcase their wines to visitors and trade attendees.

UK Wine Enters a New Era: The Wines and Vineyards That Defined the 2026 WineGB Awards

UK WineGB Jul 20, 2026 Events

The 2026 WineGB Awards have highlighted a significant leap forward for English and Welsh wine production, with judges noting that the industry has 'outgrown the box' and is now producing world-class wines across multiple styles. Langham Wine Estate dominated again with its Corallian Classic Cuvée scoring an impressive 99 points, while Hattingley Valley's Kings Cuvée 2017 achieved 98 points. The results show sparkling wines remain the standout category, but still wines like Blackbook Winery's Pygmalion Chardonnay are emerging as genuine contenders, signalling a maturing and increasingly diverse UK wine sector.

ProWein will refocus its 2027 fair on buyers and business generation

You might also like Vinetur Jul 1, 2026 Events

ProWein, one of Europe's leading wine trade fairs, is reshaping its 2027 event to put greater emphasis on connecting with buyers and driving business deals. This strategic shift reflects the industry's focus on making trade shows more results-oriented and practical for wine businesses looking to build partnerships and boost sales.

New dedicated stage reflects growing UK wine market at Fruit Focus

UK Hort News Jun 29, 2026 Events

Fruit Focus is giving UK wine industry its moment in the spotlight with a brand new dedicated stage at this year's event, marking the show's 40th anniversary. The stage will showcase cutting-edge topics like robotics in viticulture, climate change adaptation, and carbon reduction strategies, reflecting how seriously the UK wine sector is taking sustainability and innovation. It's a clear sign that British wine production is gaining real recognition on the global stage.