The Vinitaly India Roadshow kicks off today, marking the return of the travelling format created by Veronafiere in collaboration with ITA – Italian Trade Agency, aimed at expanding Italian wine business opportunities in India, a fast‑growing market increasingly strategic for European trade.
With more than 30 participating wineries, the Roadshow—stopping in New Delhi and Goa—is designed to connect Italian producers with 200 importers, distributors and HoReCa professionals, as well as to select top buyers for the next Vinitaly (Verona, 12–15 April 2026).
Objectives and Key Players of the Vinitaly India Roadshow
Leading the initiative are:
- the ITA collective (eight wineries),
- the Consorzio Tutela Vini Valpolicella (nine wineries),
- and 13 independent Italian producers joining directly.
“India is now at the centre of attention for European partners as we await the signing of the long‑anticipated free trade agreement. Initiatives like this are crucial to building solid relationships, transferring value, and positioning Italian wine in a structured and long‑term way,” says Adolfo Rebughini, outgoing General Director of Veronafiere.
The commitment goes beyond business promotion.
The Roadshow also aims to foster Italian wine culture in India through education, training, and long-term initiatives, including the development of wine tourism under Vinitaly Tourism.
A Programme of Masterclasses and B2B Meetings Across New Delhi and Goa
The Roadshow opens on 15 January in New Delhi with visits to wine shops and continues on 16 January at the Taj Palace, featuring B2B meetings, tastings and two themed masterclasses:
- Italian Wine: From Prosecco to Native Varieties, with a focus on terroir
- Italy’s Great Red Wine Regions, exploring regional identity and stylistic evolution
The day concludes with a Gala Dinner at the Italian Embassy in New Delhi, hosted by Ambassador Antonio Bartoli.
On 18 January, the Roadshow moves to Goa, with a walk‑around tasting at the Taj Cidade de Goa and the participation of local authorities, including Rohan Kaunte, Goa’s Minister of Tourism.
Masterclasses will be led by Sonal C. Holland, India’s first and only Master of Wine.
India: A High‑Growth Market for Italian Wine
According to the Uiv–Vinitaly Observatory, India’s wine import value reached $30.5 million in 2023, growing at a +12% CAGR.
Italy ranks as the fourth‑largest supplier, outperforming the market with a +14% increase.
IWSR data show that India’s total wine consumption value sits at $415 million and is projected to exceed $520 million by 2028.
A Strategic Bridge to Vinitaly 2026: Upcoming International Events
Following India, Vinitaly’s international calendar will continue with:
- Vinitaly Preview Oslo – 28 January
- Vinitaly Preview Warsaw – 17 February
- Vinitaly China Chengdu – 22–25 March
All leading up to the return to Verona for the 58th edition of Vinitaly, from 12 to 15 April 2026.
