Italian Trade Agency Promotes Italian Wine at Chicago's wine2wine Vinitaly Business Forum

Italian Trade Agency Promotes Italian Wine at wine2wine Vinitaly Business Forum

The Italian Trade Agency (ITA) is making waves as it hosts the wine2wine Vinitaly Business Forum, marking its debut in Chicago on October 5–6, 2025. This renowned event, held at the picturesque Navy Pier, aims to strengthen the presence of Italian wine in the U.S. market, providing Italian producers with critical insights into current trends and consumer behaviors.

This year's forum is particularly significant as it's the first time the influential event has occurred outside Italy. Designed to elevate the profile of Italian wine, the program features a series of flagship masterclasses aimed at addressing the intricacies of today's wine market. These sessions will come from the perspective of both established winemakers and innovative newcomers, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of Italian wine and its future.

Masterclass Highlights

The forum includes three flagship masterclasses tailored to engage participants and foster discussions around Italian wines:

1. Startup Italy: Young Producers and the Future of Italian Wine in the U.S.

Moderated by Juliana Colangelo and Barbara Fitzgerald, this class shines a spotlight on Italy’s emerging winemakers. Showcasing startups that innovate with local grape varieties and sustainable practices, this session presents a fresh narrative about Italian wines in the U.S. Producers such as Maria Faretra, Stephanie Cuadra, and Federico Veronesi will illustrate how their unique approaches and commitment to sustainability are resonating with American consumers.

2. Decoding the U.S. Market: Importing, Policy, and Promoting Italian Wine

This interactive session addresses the challenges posed by the U.S. market's complex three-tier system and the accompanying regulatory environment. Led by industry veterans such as Bill Terlato and Ted Campbell, this masterclass will provide insights into strategy, regulatory navigation, and effective communication to enhance the visibility of Italian wines in America. This class is particularly valuable for producers eager to understand the broader dynamics at play in the U.S. market.

3. Vini Rari: Beyond the Ordinary

A special feature of the Chicago event is the VINI RARI masterclass presented by Gambero Rosso. Unique wines, some produced in limited quantities, will be highlighted under the guidance of Marco Sabellico, a notable expert in Italian wines. This sensory journey emphasizes the art of winemaking through innovative techniques and rare varietals, revealing the artisanal side of Italian production that often flies under the radar.

ITA’s Role in Promoting Italian Wine

The Italian Trade Agency’s commitment to fostering relationships between Italian producers and U.S. market stakeholders underscores its integral role in the wine industry. The ITA aims to facilitate connections across various sectors, offering insights from policymakers to marketers. ITA President Matteo Zoppas expressed that this event presents a unique opportunity for Italian wineries, whether historic estates or new startups, to navigate the complexities of the U.S. market and ensure their wines thrive as symbols of quality and tradition.

As Vinitaly.USA has already brought together nearly 300 producers, with 1,800 labels established, the upcoming wine2wine forum promises to be a significant milestone in integrating Italian wine into the American wine culture.

With this initiative, the Italian Trade Agency not only highlights the significance of Italian wines but also sets the stage for a new era of collaboration and growth within the industry. The wine2wine Vinitaly Business Forum in Chicago is not just an event; it’s a bridge connecting the rich heritage of Italian winemaking with a market eager for innovation and quality.

Through engaging discussions, hands-on experiences, and strategic insights, the Italian Trade Agency's involvement will help illuminate the paths forward for Italian wineries, making this event one not to miss for anyone passionate about the future of wine.