Many things happened this week, but to not overwhelm you, here there is a (lazy) recap of only four of them.
Regulatory Updates: New EU Wine Legislation: The European Parliament has approved new measures to support winegrowers facing climate change and shifting market demands. Key highlights include new labeling standards for "alcohol-free 0.0%" and "alcohol reduced" wines to tap into new consumer segments. Additionally, the legislation unlocks funds for "grubbing up," crisis distillation, and green harvesting, while providing up to 60% EU financing for wine tourism and export promotion in non-EU countries.
Professional Education: Vinitaly International Academy (VIA): It’s registration time again. The Vinitaly International Academy is set to host the 2026 edition of its flagship Italian Wine Ambassador course in Verona from April 15–19. Over 60 global participants will undergo rigorous training, including masterclasses led this year by major regional consortia such as Brunello di Montalcino, Collio, and Sicily. The program, directed by Professor Attilio Scienza and Sarah Heller MW, aims to create a global network of certified professionals to promote the diversity and excellence of Italian wine internationally.
Lifestyle and Terroir: The 2026 Winter Olympics Wine Guide: This week was Winter Olympic Games time. What not to enjoy the local wine and food during your stay in Italy? With the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics spanning Lombardy and Veneto, local wine experts are highlighting the rich viticultural heritage of the host regions. This guide connects Olympic disciplines with local specialties: from Franciacorta and Valtellina Nebbiolo in Lombardy to the mineral-rich whites of Alto Adige and the world-renowned Prosecco Superiore and Amarone della Valpolicella in the Veneto region. It serves as a cultural bridge for visitors and viewers to discover the diverse "golden medals” wines of Northern Italy.
International Trade: "Wines Experience" Debuts in London: Those who in recent years claimed that the time of the big international wine expositions was over, well, were mistaken. WineParis had its moment of glory again this year, and the British don't want to be outdone. The new "Wines Experience" platform, a collaboration between United Experience and BolognaFiere, will launch its 2026 international calendar in London on April 26–27. This event targets the strategic UK market, featuring over 250 premium producers and utilizing advanced digital matchmaking to connect them with international buyers and Horeca operators. Following London, the promotional tour is scheduled to reach Ho Chi Minh City and Mexico City later in the year.