Italian Wine Showcase Returns to Chicago as Vinitaly.USA 2025 Draws Record Exhibitors

Vinitaly.USA 2025 opened its doors yesterday at Chicago’s Navy Pier, marking the return of Italy’s leading wine showcase to the United States. The event, now in its second edition, has quickly become the largest Italian wine fair in the country. More than 2,250 exhibitors and over 2,000 wine labels are featured this year, offering a comprehensive look at Italy’s diverse wine landscape. The program includes 20 masterclasses, tastings, and talks with participation from major media outlets such as Wine Spectator, Wine Enthusiast, Gambero Rosso, and Decanter.

The fair is organized by Veronafiere-Vinitaly in partnership with the Italian Trade Agency (ITA), Fiere Italiane, and the Italian American Chamber of Commerce of the Midwest–Chicago. It brings together producers and regional collectives from across Italy, including Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Lazio, Piedmont, Sardinia, Umbria, Veneto, and Sicily. Several consortia are also present, representing well-known denominations like Prosecco DOC, Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG, Asti DOCG, Valpolicella, Brunello di Montalcino, Custoza, Chiaretto, Bardolino, Lugana, and Garda.

The opening ceremony gathered representatives from both Italy and the United States. Among those attending were Federico Bricolo, President of Veronafiere; Marco Peronaci, Ambassador of Italy to the United States; Marco Rago from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Maurizio Muzzetta of Fiere Italiane USA LLC; Domenico Mauriello of Assocamerestero; and Robert Allegrini of the National Italian American Foundation. Other contributors included Luigi Scordamaglia of Filiera Italia and Lamberto Frescobaldi of Unione Italiana Vini.

Italian Minister of Agriculture Francesco Lollobrigida addressed attendees via video link. He highlighted the importance of wine as a symbol of Italian biodiversity and heritage. The minister described wine as a product deeply connected to territory and tradition. His remarks echoed a broader message shared throughout the event: that Italian wine’s global success is rooted in authenticity and its ability to connect people across cultures.

Italy remains the world’s top wine exporter by volume and second by value after France. In 2024, Italian wine exports reached €8.1 billion—an increase of 5.5% over 2023—with the United States as the largest market at about €1.9 billion (up 10.2%). In the first seven months of 2025, exports to the U.S. held steady at €1.1 billion despite some signs of slowing sales volumes and pressure on prices.

The industry faces challenges such as tariffs and trade barriers. A recent 15% increase on European wines and spirits in the U.S. has added pressure for producers and importers. However, these obstacles have also encouraged efforts to strengthen Italian wine’s identity in a competitive global market.

Vinitaly.USA aims to support trade relations and foster connections with American consumers. The sector is focusing on engaging a new generation that values health and sustainability. Organizers emphasize that wine—when enjoyed in moderation—is part of a balanced lifestyle and serves as a bridge between cultures.

Following the opening ceremony, the ITA – Italian Trade Agency Business Forum brought together industry leaders from both countries. Participants included Massimo Tuzzi of Terra Moretti, Francesco Ganz of Ethica Wines, Bill Terlato of Terlato Wine Group, Diva Moretti Polegato of Villa Sandi, and Matteo Zoppas of ITA. The forum addressed market trends affecting Italian wine in America.

Speakers noted that while tariffs remain a challenge, the industry has adapted by finding new opportunities beyond traditional Italian restaurants. Italian wines are now featured alongside diverse cuisines such as Asian and Peruvian food in U.S. markets. Engaging younger consumers is seen as essential for future growth; this group is increasingly interested in sustainability and authenticity.

The discussion also touched on broader industry trends such as oversupply and slower consumption growth worldwide. Despite these issues, certain categories like Prosecco continue to perform well—Prosecco exports grew by 10% through July 2025.

As Vinitaly.USA 2025 continues this week in Chicago, it highlights not only Italy’s role as a leading wine exporter but also its commitment to cultural exchange with the United States through food and wine traditions. The event underscores ongoing collaboration between producers, institutions, and consumers on both sides of the Atlantic.