Showcasing the Richness of Portuguese Agri-Food at NOWFE 2026 in New Orleans

Introducing TASTE & FEEL 2.0 PORTUGAL at NOWFE 2026

From June 10 to 14, 2026, the vibrant flavors of Portugal will arrive in the United States as part of the TASTE & FEEL 2.0 initiative. This project, led by InovCluster and the Évora Region Business Center (NERE), aims to highlight Portugal's superior agricultural and culinary offerings at the renowned New Orleans Wine & Food Experience (NOWFE).

As one of the longest-standing culinary festivals in the U.S., NOWFE gathers an impressive audience each year, with expectation of 7,000 to 8,000 attendees and participation from 175 wineries. The festival serves as an important platform for showcasing wine and food industries from around the globe, capturing the essence of Southern hospitality intertwined with international flair.

Celebrating Portuguese Excellence

The Portuguese delegation at NOWFE is dedicated to amplifying awareness of its high-quality agri-food products, particularly those recognized with certifications such as PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) and PGI (Protected Geographical Indication). This includes a rich selection of wines, olive oils, cheeses, and cured meats that embody the cultural and culinary heritage of Portugal’s Centro and Alentejo regions.

Highlighted Events

Two major events will spotlight Portugal’s unique culinary offerings during the festival:

Live Cooking Demonstration

On June 12 at 3:00 PM, Chef Dee LaVigne will conduct an exciting live cooking demonstration at the Southern Food & Beverage Museum. This interactive session promises to captivate attendees as Chef LaVigne merges classic American dishes with traditional Portuguese ingredients, presenting a delightful fusion that celebrates the strengths of both cuisines.

NOWFE Grand Tasting

The Grand Tasting on June 13 at 2:30 PM will serve as a prime venue for showcasing Portugal's culinary products. Visitors will have the chance to sample the nation's finest offerings in an immersive experience that bridges the gap between producers, importers, and culinary enthusiasts.

Building Connections in North America

The overarching goal of the TASTE & FEEL 2.0 initiative is to foster connections in the U.S. market. Through these engagements, the Portuguese delegation aims to forge strategic partnerships with local distributors and buyers, thereby expanding the reach and recognition of Portuguese products as symbols of quality and tradition.

This initiative is co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund (FEDER) under the COMPETE 2030 program, which supports innovation and digital transition in Portugal’s agri-food sector.

Join us as we embark on this flavorful journey at NOWFE 2026, where the best of Portuguese culinary tradition will be showcased for all to savor and appreciate.