The leading international exhibitions for wine and spirits professionals in North America, Vinexpo America and Drinks America, is gearing up for an educational agenda exploring the trends and topics shaping the industry at the March 8-9 co-located events.
The show’s list of exhibitors already includes 19 countries and counting. And just announced are three Master Classes that will immerse attendees in the wines and spirits of Europe, Japan, and France.
The schedule of master classes continues to be refined. Here are the latest additions and developments:
- European Garnacha and Grenache Quality Wines will present a session on the Introduction to European Garnacha Grenache Quality Wines. Attendees will learn about the seventh most planted grape variety in the world and its European origin and will have the opportunity to taste and experience its wide range, quality, and diverse pairing possibilities. The class will also dive into European standards for agricultural production and discover why Garnacha Grenache is arguably the most eco-friendly grape in the world.
- In a session titled Awamori: Your Next Obsession, Okinawa Distillers Association will educate attendees on the production of the fascinating spirit, Awamori, which has a history dating back 600 years. Japan’s oldest distilled spirit is a single pot rice distillate that naturally lends itself to food pairings. Only a handful of the 47 producers of Awamori are exported to mainland Japan, let alone the United States, and this class will feature six of them. The spirit is a sure hit for lovers of brandy, eau de vie, mezcal, and for those looking to learn more about a new category of low-to-mid ABV products.
- Hosted by Mary Gorman, MW, The Crus Bourgeois du Médoc 2020 Classification class will explore Bordeaux, considered among the most famous wine regions in the world, how the Classification was built and its plans for the future. The session will dive into environmental obligation, quality for consumers and value for distributors. Every tier and appellation of the Classification will be represented.
Additional Master Classes will also be presented by InterRhône and Serbia, among others, with details coming soon.
Registration is available online through March 7 for $50; attendees can register at either vinexpoamerica.com or drinksamerica.com to gain entry to both shows. On-site registration is priced at $100.
