Two Italian Regions to Share “Wine City” Title for First Time, Involving 28 Municipalities in 2026 and 2027

For the first time since its creation, the title of “Italian Wine City” will be shared by two territories. The Vulture area in Basilicata and the Conegliano Valdobbiadene region in Veneto have both been awarded this recognition for the years 2026 and 2027. The announcement was made by the National Association of Wine Cities, which brings together more than 500 Italian municipalities with a strong wine tradition.

The “Italian Wine City” title was established in 2021 to highlight the cultural, economic, and social importance of wine-producing areas across Italy. Each year, a selected territory is tasked with organizing a program of events and activities focused on wine tourism, culture, environmental sustainability, and local heritage. The goal is to promote the unique characteristics of each region’s wine culture and its impact on society, economy, gastronomy, landscape, and both tangible and intangible heritage.

Angelo Radica, president of the National Association of Wine Cities, explained that the decision to assign the title to both Vulture and Conegliano Valdobbiadene reflects the high quality of their applications. He emphasized that this dual recognition offers an opportunity for collaboration between two regions from different parts of Italy—one in the north and one in the south. According to Radica, joint events and initiatives will allow for an exchange of ideas and experiences that can benefit both local wine industries.

The Vulture area’s candidacy was presented by a coalition of 14 municipalities: Rionero in Vulture, Melfi, Ginestra, Barile, Ripacandida (lead municipality), Rapolla, Genzano di Lucania, Atella, Acerenza, Palazzo San Gervasio, Lavello, Forenza, Venosa, and Maschito. These towns are united by their production of Aglianico del Vulture, one of southern Italy’s most renowned red wines.

Similarly, Conegliano Valdobbiadene’s application involved 14 municipalities: Cison di Valmarino, Conegliano (lead municipality), Farra di Soligo, Follina, Fregona, Miane, Pieve di Soligo, Refrontolo, San Pietro di Feletto, San Vendemiano, Susegana, Valdobbiadene, Vidor, and Vittorio Veneto. This area is known for producing Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG—a sparkling wine that has become a symbol of Italian enology worldwide.

During 2026 and 2027, both regions will host a series of events designed to attract experts and enthusiasts from Italy and abroad. These activities aim to promote local wines as well as the broader cultural and natural heritage of each territory. Organizers hope that this recognition will boost tourism and strengthen the reputation of their wines on international markets.

The current holder of the “Italian Wine City” title is Castelli Romani in Lazio for 2025. With Vulture and Conegliano Valdobbiadene set to take over in 2026 and 2027, attention is already turning to how these two regions will use their shared platform to showcase Italy’s diverse wine traditions. The initiative is expected to foster new partnerships between northern and southern producers while offering visitors a deeper understanding of Italian viticulture.