Wine and UNESCO: Vinitaly Revives Proposal for Cultural Recognition

Wine and UNESCO: key outcomes from Vinitaly

On 13 April 2026, a roundtable at Vinitaly in Verona brought together wine-sector representatives and institutional delegates to re-raise the proposal to recognize wine culture as UNESCO heritage. The initiative aims to highlight wine as an expression of landscapes, traditional practices and local identity, beyond its economic value.

Main points discussed

• Date and venue: 13 April 2026, Vinitaly – Verona.
• Participants: members of the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV), ministers and delegations from key producing countries.
• Argument: wine as “land, culture, labour, identity” linked to historic vineyards and winemaking traditions.
• Practical goals: protect traditional practices, support wine tourism and enhance conservation of cultural landscapes associated with viticulture.

Why this matters for UNESCO sites in Italy

Many Italian UNESCO sites include cultural landscapes and rural areas where viticulture is central. A recognition that embraces wine culture could:

• strengthen protection for historic vineyards and wineries;
• open doors to conservation funding and landscape management projects;
• promote integrated cultural and gastronomic visitor experiences.

Practical implications for visitors and operators

Visitors to UNESCO sites who are interested in wine tourism may benefit from more structured and certified tours, tastings and vineyard routes. Local operators could create packages that link recognized heritage sites with authentic enogastronomic experiences rooted in tradition and landscape.

How to follow developments

The Vinitaly initiative launches an international dialogue: Italian authorities and sector organizations will pursue discussions with bodies such as UNESCO. To stay informed, watch for official announcements, candidacy submissions and public consultations.

Practical info

Event location: Vinitaly, Viale del Lavoro 8, 37135 Verona (approx. coordinates: 45.4175099, 10.979821).