#United States #Chicago #Italian Wine #Vinitaly

Vinitaly.USA 2025 Opens in Chicago

The second edition of Vinitaly.USA kicked off at Chicago Navy Pier, marking a significant moment in celebrating the deep-rooted partnership between Italy and the United States. The event brings together over 2,250 exhibitors showcasing more than 2,000 different wine labels, establishing itself as the largest Italian wine fair in the U.S. For attendees, the event offers a unique opportunity to experience 20 high-level masterclasses and tastings, featuring respected media partners such as Wine Spectator, Wine Enthusiast, Gambero Rosso, and Decanter.

Organized by Veronafiere-Vinitaly, in collaboration with the Italian Trade Agency (ITA), Fiere Italiane, and the Italian American Chamber of Commerce of the Midwest–Chicago, this expo encapsulates Italian excellence in oenology. Participants can explore a rich array of Italian wines from renowned regions including Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Piedmont, Lazio, Sicily, and more, featuring notable consortia such as Prosecco DOC and Brunello di Montalcino.

The opening ceremony was a gathering of Italian and U.S. dignitaries, underscoring the cultural and diplomatic weight of the occasion. Notable figures included Federico Bricolo, President of Veronafiere and Marco Peronaci, Ambassador of Italy to the U.S. The Minister of Agriculture for Italy, Francesco Lollobrigida, reinforced the importance of wine as a cultural expression of Italy’s heritage, emphasizing the role of Italian wines in showcasing biodiversity and craftsmanship.

Reflecting on the past year, it was noted that Italy remains at the forefront of the global wine market, being the top exporter by volume and second only to France by value. Italian wine exports reached €8.1 billion in 2024, marking a 5.5% increase from the previous year. The U.S. remains the largest market, with exports valued at around €1.9 billion, up 10.2%.

Despite facing challenges such as tariffs and trade barriers that have recently impacted European wines and spirits in the U.S. with a 15% increase, Italian producers demonstrate resilience and adaptability. The goal of Vinitaly.USA is not only to bolster sales but also to engage American consumers, focusing on health-conscious choices and sustainability. The message is clear: wine, when enjoyed in moderation, enhances a culturally enriched lifestyle and acts as a bridge between nations.

The ITA – Italian Trade Agency Business Forum that followed the opening witnessed crucial discussions among key stakeholders from both Italy and the U.S. They acknowledged the ongoing realities of tariffs while highlighting innovations within the industry that align with the evolving preferences of consumers. Notably, Prosecco has seen a remarkable increase of 10% through July 2025, showcasing the adaptability of Italian wines in a global marketplace undergoing transformations.

As the event progresses, Vinitaly.USA 2025 continues to symbolize a dynamic connection between Italian wine culture and the American audience, aiming to further solidify this relationship through collaboration and cultural diplomacy. With each glass shared, it brings Italy and the U.S. closer together, embodying a celebration of shared heritage and future growth in the wine industry.

Through innovation and collaboration, Vinitaly.USA emerges as a testament to the enduring spirit of Italian wine, paving the way for strengthened ties one sip at a time.