Puglia to Host 2028 International Terroir Congress, Marking a First for Southern Italy

The International Association of Terroir Experts (SITE) has selected Puglia as the host region for the 18th International Terroir Congress, scheduled for the summer of 2028. The decision was made unanimously during the SITE assembly on Tuesday, September 16. This marks the first time the event will take place in Southern Italy, following a previous Italian edition held in Veneto twelve years ago.

The International Terroir Congress is a biennial event that brings together researchers, scientists, and industry professionals from around the world to discuss the influence of terroir on wine. Topics include the interaction between soil, climate, grape varieties, viticultural and oenological practices, landscape management, and the effects of climate change. The congress also focuses on strategies for mitigation and adaptation in response to environmental challenges.

In 2028, Bari and other key locations in Puglia will welcome between 300 and 400 participants for four to five days of scientific sessions and technical visits. The event is expected to highlight Apulian viticulture and its ongoing research into indigenous grape varieties and sustainable practices. Previous congresses have been held in cities such as Dijon, Reims, Zaragoza, Adelaide, Bordeaux, Mendoza, and Angers. The next edition is set for Angers in France’s Loire Valley in 2026.

Donato Pentassuglia, Regional Councilor for Agriculture, expressed enthusiasm about hosting the congress. He described it as an extraordinary opportunity for Puglia and all of Southern Italy to showcase their winemaking heritage and commitment to sustainability. Pentassuglia emphasized that collaboration among institutions, research centers, universities, and industry associations will be essential for organizing a successful event.

The Regional Department of Agriculture will coordinate an organizing committee that includes the National Research Council (CNR), CREA (Creative Research Center), universities, research centers, and industry groups. The congress aims to further promote Apulian agri-food products on an international stage.

Puglia’s selection as host reflects recognition of its scientific institutions’ work in recovering and promoting local grape varieties. Projects such as ReGeViP (Recovery of Apulian Viticultural Germplasm), co-financed by the Rural Development Program, and Ri.Vi.Vi Valle d’Itria (focused on vinegrowing zoning and sustainability tools), funded by regional law in December 2022, have played a significant role in advancing research and innovation in the region.

Viticultural zoning studies are currently underway in areas like the Itria Valley, building on earlier work conducted in countries such as Serbia and Montenegro. These efforts aim to better understand local terroirs and develop strategies for adapting to climate change while preserving regional wine traditions.

The upcoming congress is expected to strengthen Puglia’s position as a leader in viticulture research and innovation. It will also provide a platform for sharing knowledge about sustainable agriculture practices with experts from around the world. Organizers hope that hosting this international event will contribute to the continued growth and recognition of Apulian wines on global markets.