The 56th Verona International Wine and Spirits Exhibition closed its doors today, leaving behind an atmosphere full of excellence and passion for the world of wine. With an extraordinary participation of over 97,000 visitors from all over the world, the event confirms itself as one of the most important events in the global wine scene.
The presence of over 30,000 foreign operators, including 1200 selected top buyers, underlined the importance of Vinitaly as a platform for commercial exchange and promotion of Italian wines on the global market. In this scenario, Sicily has stood out, presenting an extraordinary variety of wines and extra virgin olive oils that represent the richness and diversity of the island territory.
With over 140 wineries and the participation of the 12 regional protection consortia, the Sicilian Pavilion was one of the most frequented and appreciated by sector operators and wine enthusiasts. In particular, Pavilion 2 Sicily played a significant role, being the second most visited after that of Veneto, thus confirming Sicily as one of the favorite destinations for those looking for high quality wines.
The numerous events organized at the meeting hall of the Sicilian Region, including the food and wine itineraries of the “Wine and Flavor Routes”, the tastings conducted by the renowned Master of Wine Pietro Russo and the round tables between producers, highlighted the eclecticism and cultural richness of the island.
Vinitaly 2024 was also a crossroads of initiatives and debates of cultural and social relevance. The theme of respect was taken to heart, with the commemoration of Marisa Leo, a prominent figure in the world of wine and social activism, who tragically passed away in 2023. The event also saw the birth of the association “Generazione Next ”, an organization that brings together the new generations of Sicilian producers with the aim of carrying forward the island’s winemaking tradition with an innovative perspective.
The issue of climate change has taken on a central role in the debates, pushing Sicilian producers to invest in native varieties, considered authentic genetic resources to face environmental challenges. Vitrarole, for example, with its genetic characteristics, has proven resilient in situations of water and environmental stress. Furthermore, it emerged that some clones of Nero d’Avola and Grillo, historic native vines, offer valid indications for mitigating the effects of drought.
The overtaking of white wines over reds has emerged as a significant topic of discussion, highlighting a change in consumer tastes that shows a preference for less demanding and lighter wines. In particular, Generation Z consumers prefer white wines in 30% of cases, followed by sparkling wines at 20% and rosés at 4%, while red wines represent 46% of the overall choice. Interestingly, this preference for white wines does not necessarily mean a decline in red wines, but rather a preference for less alcoholic red wines.
Among the salient statistical data of Sicilian participation in Vinitaly 2024:
- The production of Grillo-based wine has significantly doubled compared to previous years, today 23 million are produced, seven years ago there were only 12. The focus is also on Catarratto, which gave rise to the project of the ‘Historic Families of Carattatto’, a group of companies that are getting together to team up and revive the vine by making it in a modern way.
- Sicilian extra virgin olive oil, with PGI designation, has confirmed its leading position in national production, surpassing the renowned Tuscan production. To date, production has a million and a half bottles with the denomination “IGP Sicilia”.
- Sicily continues to stand out in the organic sector, confirming itself as a national leader in the production of organic wines.
The active participation of new generations in the Sicilian wine sector was evident during Vinitaly 2024. Young producers and oenologists carried forward centuries-old traditions with a touch of innovation, helping to keep Sicily’s winemaking heritage alive and anticipate future market trends .
“Sicilian wine moves forward on the legs of young people thanks to the visionary work that their grandparents and parents have achieved, transforming the land of bulk wines into an international wine brand. Now let’s leave it to the young people”
Dario Cartabellotta, director of the regional agriculture department
Sicily’s success at Vinitaly 2024 confirms its leading position in the world of wine and extra virgin olive oil, strengthening its role as an ambassador of the Italian wine tradition and laying the foundations for further successes in the future.
Tags: Vinitaly Sicily popular young heartfelt
