A Tasting Of Wines From Italy(tm) / Une Dégustation De Vins D’Italie (Mc) 2024

The 29th edition of A Tasting Of Wines From Italy TM / Une Dégustation De Vins D’Italie Mc , an exclusive Italian wine roadshow, showcases once again the exceptional quality and diversity of Italian wines while fostering valuable connections between producers and Canadian traders. The roadshow will kick off in Vancouver at the Terminal City Club on October 28, 2024, followed by a stop in Calgary at the Brownstone on October 30. It will then descend on Toronto at Roy Thomson Hall on November 4th and conclude in Montréal at Marché Bonsecours on November 6. Twenty-eight Italian producers will welcome guests in each of the two events in the West. Eastern events will see the participation of ninety-three producers each. The roadshow is organized by the Italian Trade Commission (ITC) offices in Canada and aims at creating a pleasant and productive tasting and learning experience for traders and producers alike. Over 4,000 wine agents, representatives from provincial Liquor Boards, specialized members of the media, opinion leaders, wine collectors and other industry professionals are expected at the four events.

All events will feature walk-around tastings, allowing for direct interactions with producers and their agents. Attendees will have the opportunity to savor new vintages from their favorite wineries and discover exciting new offerings. In Toronto and Montreal, two masterclasses aimed at members of the media, product counselors and top sommeliers will be offered.

In Toronto, the theme of the masterclass will be “Super Italians Outside the Box: Understanding the Evolution and Current Concept of Italy’s IGT and IGP”. It will be conducted by Sommelier Michael Godel. He will guide participants through the evolution and resurgence of Super Italian wines, exploring their history, production choices, and climate influences, while tasting six exceptional wines in the spectacular auditorium of Roy Thomson Hall.

In Montreal, the masterclass, titled “Italy – Trends 2024” and led by Master Sommelier Élyse Lambert, will highlight the wine trends of 2024, showcasing the unique blend of tradition and innovation that defines the richness of Italian wine.

Participation is free for sector professionals but requires registration prior to entering the premises (see links below).

Now in its 29th edition, A Tasting Of Wines From Italy TM / Une Dégustation De Vins D’Italie Mc has become the most anticipated and accredited Italian wine event in Canada, serving as a cornerstone for the Canadian wine industry. Italian wines have firmly established their presence in the Canadian market, driven by robust demand for their superior quality and distinctive characteristics. As Canadian trade professionals increasingly seek authentic and diverse offerings, Italian producers are well-positioned to meet this growing interest in all market tiers, strengthening trade relationships and enhancing the vitality of Canada’s wine industry.

Despite a general slowdown in imports and consumption, sales of Italian wines remained strong. In 2023, Canada imported wine valued at CAD 2.7 billion, ranking as the 5th largest market for Italian wines. Italy was Canada’s second-largest supplier, with CAD 609 million in imports and a 22.5% share, following France. In terms of volume, Canada imported 74 million liters of Italian wine, representing a 20% market share, second to Australia. The leading provinces for Italian wine imports to Canada were Quebec at CAD 609 million, Ontario at CAD 268 million, Alberta at CAD 197 million, and British Columbia at CAD 75 million.

“A Tasting of Wines From ItalyTM 2024, confirms Italy’s strong position in the Canadian market, driven by sustainability and an outstanding variety of offerings, which gives producers a strong chance to gain from the recent liberalization of retail trade in Ontario.” says Marco Saladini, head of the Italian Trade Commission (ITC) offices in Canada. “The strong demand for Italian wine, coupled with ongoing public and private investments in promotion, keeps our offices actively engaged in the sector year-round. Understanding the territory is closely linked to appreciating the quality of Italian wines. That’s why the ITC provides Canadian professionals and journalists with valuable opportunities beyond the annual tasting, including specialized seminars, study trips and sponsored participation in trade shows. Additionally, our agency collaborates with provincial monopolies to support promotional campaigns for Italian products in hundreds of stores and online,” Saladini concludes.

Plan your visit to the events and/or learn more about exhibitors by browsing our website https://extraordinaryitalianwine.ca/

Vancouver October 28th CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR VANCOUVER
Calgary October 30th CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR CALGARY
Toronto November 4th CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR TORONTO
Montreal November 6th CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR MONTREAL