Bordeaux Hosts 25th Great Wine Capitals Conference as 11 Regions Chart Future of Global Wine Tourism

The Great Wine Capitals Global Network marked its 25th annual conference in Bordeaux last week, bringing together representatives from 11 major wine regions and international guests from the wine, tourism, and business sectors. The event, held in the city where the network was founded, focused on both honoring its origins and planning for the future of global wine tourism.

The conference ran for several days and included a range of activities designed to foster collaboration and innovation. Delegates participated in business-to-business meetings, strategic committee sessions, and networking events aimed at strengthening ties between member cities. The agenda reflected the network’s commitment to sharing knowledge and identifying new opportunities for growth in the wine tourism industry.

A central feature of the conference was Knowledge Day, which addressed current challenges and opportunities facing wine tourism. Industry leaders and experts discussed topics such as changing travel trends, shifts in consumer behavior, health considerations, and the role of innovation in expanding market reach. Speakers emphasized the need for adaptability and cooperation to ensure that wine tourism destinations remain resilient in a rapidly changing global environment.

Attendees also visited several prominent Bordeaux wine estates. These tours provided insight into the region’s winemaking traditions while highlighting new approaches to sustainability and visitor engagement. Organizers aimed to showcase how established wine regions are adapting to meet modern expectations without losing their heritage.

One of the most anticipated events was an international wine tasting held at Bassins des Lumières, a former submarine base turned cultural venue. Delegates sampled wines from all 11 member capitals, offering a rare opportunity to experience the diversity of styles and techniques represented within the network.

The conference concluded with the Best Of Wine Tourism Awards ceremony at Bordeaux’s Palais de la Bourse. This event recognized outstanding achievements in wine tourism across the network’s regions, with awards given to businesses that have demonstrated innovation and excellence in enhancing visitor experiences.

During the general assembly, Jo Collins from Adelaide, South Australia was elected president of the Great Wine Capitals Global Network for a two-year term. She succeeds Paolo Arena of Verona. Collins stated that her focus will be on maintaining collaboration among members and ensuring that the network continues to lead in promoting excellence within global wine tourism.

It was also announced that Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand will host the next annual conference in 2026. Hamish Saxton, CEO of Hawke’s Bay Tourism, expressed enthusiasm about welcoming delegates to his region and contributing to ongoing discussions about innovation and connection within the industry.

The Bordeaux conference served as both a reflection on 25 years of progress and a platform for setting new goals. Organizers and participants left with a renewed sense of purpose as they look ahead to future challenges and opportunities in global wine tourism.