Wine Expeditions, also known as “wine expos”, and Trade Shows can seem like a vino lover’s Disney World. A magical place where producers are offering tastings of their latest vintage and industry experts are available for insights and networking. Every year, numerous Wine Expos are held across the country; attracting both wine professionals and amateurs alike.
However, not all of them are magical. Some are more akin to a run-down county fair. To help you find the ones worth attending, we have compiled a list of some of the best (in no particular order):
VinExpo New York
It is only fitting that the Big Apple is host to one of the wine industry’s largest events. Wine professionals from all over the globe flock to this expedition, representing all facets of the industry (importers, merchants, and sommeliers, just to name a few).
VinExpo also showcases organic wines (Wow! World of Organic Wines), holds Master Classes, and features a Wine Appreciation Bookstore – what more could you want?
On exhibition is a unique collection of producers, such as Bava (IT), Château Ramage La Batisse/ Château Belcier (FR), and Kessler-Zink Winery (DE). To make it easier for Producers and Buyers to connect during this two-day event, VinExpo offers “One to Wine Business,” a business matchmaking service that personalizes schedules and goals to find the right fit.
*Note that this is a trade-only event, not open to consumers. Qualifying business credentials are required.
WSWA Convention
The Wine and Spirit Wholesalers Association Convention is touted as the Expo “The Industry Goes to!” They are not wrong. This three-day event attracts many up-and-coming producers to exhibit their selection and promote brand awareness. To help with that is WSWA’s Wine and Spirits Tasting Competition, one of the favorite convention features. Winners will be featured in the competition’s sponsor’s publications: The Tasting Panel magazine and The Somm Journal.
Another highlight is The Brand Battle, which allows suppliers and distributors to pitch their brands to industry insiders.
Eastern Winery Exposition
The largest wine expo on the East Coast, EWE covers all the bases. Do you own a winery or are you looking to start one? Seek advice from one of the many experts on any topic, ranging from winemaking tips to technology. Check out a variety of professional vendors to purchase anything from barrels to wine travel luggage.
This event is not just for wine-makers; there is something to appeal to anyone who appreciates wine. With numerous workshops (A few topics: Climate Change, Fortified Wine) and tasting from wineries from all over the East Coast, including Finger Lakes and Canada – you’ll wish the event lasted longer than 3 days!
World of Pinot Noir
As the name implies, this event is all about the cool-climate-loving red known to the world as Pinot Noir. Adoring fans will be in for a treat as this event brings the top producers of Pinot Noir and other industry professionals to talk, taste, and celebrate the aforementioned wine.
From Burgundy to the Russian River Valley, seminars examining this grape’s differences and similarities will surely quench your thirst for Pinot Noir knowledge. Enjoy dinners from world-renowned chefs who will expertly pair this star red with delicious cuisine. Attend the Rosé Lawn party and sample some superb Pinot Noir Rosés. This event will prove the impossible: you will leave loving Pinot Noir even more!
AWS National Wine Conference
This is the premier event of the American Wine Society and is perfect for wine experts and novices alike! Consumers are allowed to attend as the event promotes fostering passion and knowledge for wine.
To encourage this, the event hosts a variety of seminars led by industry experts. Wine tastings are another highlight; many conference attendees leave with more information and new friendships with fellow wine lovers.
