New Delhi, 17 January 2026: The New Delhi edition of the Vinitaly India Roadshow 2026 was formally launched by H.E. Amb. Antonio Bartoli, Ambassador of Italy to India, and concluded successfully today at Taj Palace, reaffirming Italy’s growing strategic focus on India as a high-potential, long-term market for premium imported wines. The event took place at a pivotal moment, as the European Union and India move closer to finalising a Free Trade Agreement, expected to further strengthen bilateral trade across key sectors, including wine and spirits.
Organised by Veronafiere, the Vinitaly India Roadshow served as a strategic precursor to Vinitaly 2026, scheduled from 12–15 April 2026 in Verona. The New Delhi showcase brought together Italian wine producers and leading Indian importers, distributors, retailers, sommeliers and HoReCa decision-makers, offering a focused platform for business development, market insights and long-term trade engagement.
India’s wine market, though modest in per-capita consumption, continues to witness steady growth driven by urbanisation, rising disposable incomes, premiumisation of alcohol consumption and the rapid expansion of the hospitality and fine-dining sectors. Industry estimates indicate a compound annual growth rate of 8-10%, with imported wines dominating the premium and super-premium segments. Within this evolving landscape, Italy consistently ranks among the top three imported wine origins in India, alongside France and Australia.
Italian wines have demonstrated particular strength in categories such as sparkling wines, led by Prosecco as well as DOC and DOCG wines, which are increasingly preferred by hotels, premium restaurants and specialist retailers. Despite challenges including high import duties and complex state-level regulations, Italy’s wine exports to India continue to grow in value, supported by improved distribution networks, education-led initiatives, and rising consumer awareness of Italian regional diversity and food-friendly wine styles.
Commenting on the successful conclusion of the New Delhi roadshow, H.E. Amb. Antonio Bartoli, Ambassador of Italy to India, said, “Italy and India share a strong and evolving trade relationship, and wine is an important cultural and economic bridge between our two countries. The Vinitaly India Roadshow in New Delhi highlights the growing interest among Indian consumers and trade professionals in high-quality Italian wines, while reinforcing Italy’s commitment to building long-term partnerships in this dynamic market.”
The New Delhi edition of the Vinitaly India Roadshow 2026 featured curated Italian wine tastings, structured B2B meetings, and targeted networking sessions, enabling meaningful dialogue between Italian producers and Indian trade stakeholders. As international wine showcases in India continue to increase, the Vinitaly Roadshow differentiates itself as a consistent, data-driven, and strategically aligned platform dedicated exclusively to Italian wines.
Mr. Adolfo Rebughini, Director General, Veronafiere, said, “The strong participation and quality of engagement witnessed at the New Delhi edition of the Vinitaly India Roadshow confirm India’s strategic relevance for Italian wine producers. Our objective is not only to promote Italian wines, but to create continuity, trust, and concrete business opportunities. This roadshow plays a key role in strengthening market readiness ahead of Vinitaly 2026 in Verona.”
Mr. Vas Shenoy, Chief Representative for Italy, Indian Chamber of Commerce, said, “India’s wine market is evolving rapidly, particularly in the premium and on-trade segments. Platforms like the Vinitaly India Roadshow are crucial in facilitating informed market entry, strengthening trade linkages and supporting sustainable growth for Italian producers in India. The New Delhi edition reflects the growing maturity and appetite of the Indian wine ecosystem.”
Following the successful New Delhi showcase, the Vinitaly India Roadshow 2026 will continue its journey to Panaji, Goa, further strengthening Italy’s engagement with India’s hospitality-driven markets. With its focused approach, expanded reach and alignment with India’s changing consumption trends, the Vinitaly India Roadshow continues to play a pivotal role in enhancing awareness, accessibility and appreciation of Italian wines in India, while paving the way for stronger Indian participation at Vinitaly 2026 in Verona.
