Sicilian Wineries Announce Major Collective Return to Vinitaly 2026 in Verona

Sicily’s wine industry is preparing for a prominent return at Vinitaly 2026, the international wine fair set to take place in Verona from April 12 to 15. More than 40 Sicilian wineries will participate under the banner of Assovini Sicilia, which will be present both in Pavilion 2—dedicated entirely to Sicily—and at its own stand, D40. This collective presence highlights the association’s ongoing efforts to promote Sicilian wine’s quality and distinct identity in both domestic and global markets.

The initiative is part of the PSR Sicilia 2023-2027 program, specifically Intervention SRG10 “Promotion of Quality Products,” supported by the Regional Department of Agriculture of the Sicilian Region. The group of participating wineries includes both historic estates and newer producers, all sharing a focus on sustainability, research, and the development of native grape varieties. These wineries aim to showcase the diversity and richness of Sicily’s wine landscape.

Mariangela Cambria, President of Assovini Sicilia, emphasized the importance of Vinitaly as a platform for exchange and storytelling. She noted that Sicilian wine now reflects an island undergoing transformation and growth. According to Cambria, the goal at Vinitaly is to communicate this energy and present an authentic image of Sicily’s wine sector—one marked by diversity among companies but united by a strong connection to the land and a shared commitment to quality.

A key event during Vinitaly will be the conference “Journey to Sicily: New Frontiers of Wine Tourism,” scheduled for Monday, April 13 at 12:30 PM in the conference hall of Sicilia Pavilion. The session will address how wine tourism in Sicily is evolving and its impact on culture, economy, and storytelling. Panelists include Filippo Magnani, Giulio Perrone, Federica Fina, Francesca Planeta, Federico Geremei, and Filippo Galanti. They will offer perspectives from travel, publishing, wine tourism operations, and communication sectors.

Throughout the fair, Assovini Sicilia will also organize a series of masterclasses led by journalist Francesco Pensovecchio. These sessions are designed for industry professionals and media representatives interested in exploring different aspects of Sicilian winemaking. The masterclasses will take place at Assovini Sicilia’s stand (D40) within Pavilion 2.

The schedule includes four sessions: “Bubbles Off the Beaten Path” on Sunday afternoon will explore sparkling wines made from native grapes grown on clay hills and volcanic soils; “Liquid Light: Sicilian Whites” on Monday will focus on contemporary white wines and their aromatic profiles; “Form and Style” on Tuesday morning will examine red wines crafted from southern sands to Mount Etna’s lava-rich soils; and “The Island of Time” on Tuesday afternoon will delve into Sicily’s sweet wines produced through late harvests and drying processes.

Assovini Sicilia views participation in Vinitaly as a crucial opportunity to connect with buyers, operators, and stakeholders from around the world. The event is expected to strengthen relationships with foreign markets while reinforcing Sicily’s reputation as a dynamic region producing wines with strong identity and increasing recognition for quality. The association aims to use this platform not only for business but also to continue telling the evolving story of Sicilian wine—one rooted in tradition yet driven by innovation and sustainability.