Vino 2010

The Italian Trade Commission launched today the VINO 2010 in New York City. The largest convention of Italian wines in America featuring more than 400 producers and importers kicked off today in Waldorf Astoria and Hilton hotels. The convention will last four days and is only open to trade and press. VINO 2010 is being organized with the support of the Italian Ministry of Economic Development and in collaboration of four of Italy's most prominent wine regions: Apulia, Calabria, Tuscany and Veneto.

During the press conference, members of the media found out some interesting statistics. First, that Italy remains the number one source of still wine imported to the US, commanding a 31% of the market share. Also, that prosecco is very trendy and particularly popular with the younger generations (i.e. the millennials), therefore, its increase in sales by 14%. Interesting was the comment made by the Italian Trade Commission representative that soon Italian wines will have to face California (let's wait to see what it will happen). Afterwards, press and trade members were invited to an elegant, (even for the writer who is not an Italian cuisine fan) Italian luncheon.

The menu included:

As an appetizer, mortadella Bologna and prosciutto San Daniele together with gorgonzola followed by risotto with porcini and parmiggiano reggiano. A tasty and well received herb-roasted chicken, ricotta gnocchi with pancetta, roasted root vegetables and rosemary sauce was the main course -nicely served and much appreciated. Finally, dessert came without surprise: an espresso chocolate mousse, a type of tiramisu otherwise, plenty of cookies and coffee.

The wine menu included the Villa Sandi Prosecco, the Rocca Sveva Soave Classico 2008, Fontanafredda Briccotondo Piemonte Barbera 2008 and the Arnaldo Caprai Sagrantino di Montefalco Collepiano 2004.

There are plenty of seminars, tastings and more events for the press the following days. We will be there, looking forward to the prosecco seminar early tomorrow morning.

More to follow...