European Wine Community Celebrates 100 Days of VITÆVINO Campaign

Policymakers and Industry Leaders Gather to Promote Wine's Legacy

2025-01-15

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The European wine community gathered at the European Parliament on January 15, 2025, to mark the milestone of 100 days since the launch of the VITÆVINO Campaign, a major initiative aimed at promoting wine culture and defending its role in Europe's heritage. The event emphasized wine's deep roots in European history, rural economies, and social traditions, while also advocating for moderation and responsible consumption.

The event was held under the patronage of Spanish MEP Carmen Crespo of the European People's Party (EPP) and French MEP Eric Sargiacomo of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats (S&D). Both policymakers underscored the importance of wine as a unifying cultural element and a key economic driver in rural areas. The gathering brought together influential figures from the wine industry, policymakers, and culinary experts to celebrate wine's enduring significance in European life.

Chef Max Mariola, known for promoting healthy, local cuisine and recognized as a FAO Food Hero, was among the prominent speakers. Mariola highlighted the connection between wine and European culinary traditions, stating that wine not only enhances meals but also strengthens the relationship between communities and the land. "Wine is inseparable from the story of European cuisine," Mariola said. "It does not only bring joy to our tables but reinforces our understanding of community and terroir."

The event also featured leaders from key European wine organizations, including Mauricio González-Gordon, president of the European Committee of Wine Companies (CEEV); Matilde Poggi, president of the European Confederation of Independent Winegrowers (CEVI); Luca Rigotti, president of the wine sector at COPA COGECA; and Riccardo Ricci Curbastro, president of the European Federation of Origin Wines (EFOW). Their participation underscored the wine industry's broad support for the VITÆVINO Campaign's mission to safeguard wine as a cultural symbol and economic pillar.

In her address, MEP Carmen Crespo called the campaign a vital reminder of wine's contribution to European identity. "Wine is more than a beverage — it is a symbol of our shared history, our land, and our cultural diversity," Crespo said. She assured attendees that the European Parliament would continue to support policies to protect the wine sector while promoting sustainability and responsible consumption.

French MEP Eric Sargiacomo echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the role of the European Parliament's Wine Intergroup in fostering dialogue between policymakers and the wine sector. "I am proud to advocate for the wine sector's critical role in rural development and European cohesion," Sargiacomo stated. "This platform will ensure that future generations continue to benefit from this essential part of our heritage."

The VITÆVINO Campaign, launched in October 2024, is a grassroots movement focused on protecting wine culture and promoting its socio-economic importance. The campaign seeks to counteract growing regulatory pressures on alcohol by emphasizing wine's role in fostering conviviality and moderation. The initiative has gained traction not only across the European Union but also in countries like Argentina and the United States, with over 15,000 people signing the VITÆVINO Declaration to date.

Supporters of the campaign are encouraged to sign the Declaration at www.vitaevino.org, which is available in multiple languages. The VITÆVINO Campaign continues to rally wine lovers, producers, and policymakers to ensure that wine remains a celebrated part of European life and heritage.

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