The 24th edition of The Best Italian Wines has officially returned to showcase the finest achievements in Italian winemaking. The opening ceremony, held yesterday, marked the beginning of four days of tastings, workshops, and sensory experiences at the Salone delle Fontane in Eur, running until February 23.
This year’s event, designed by Luca Maroni, a renowned sensory analyst and author, in collaboration with Francesca Romana Maroni, CEO of Sens Eventi, revolves around the theme “At the Heart of Pleasure.” Guests will explore the connection between taste and sensations, delving into the authentic essence of enogastronomic pleasure through key ingredients such as honey, salt, citrus fruits, chili peppers, olive oil, and roots.
The Opening Ceremony: Awards and Distinguished Guests
The inaugural evening welcomed notable figures from the world of politics and entertainment, including Senator Gian Marco Centinaio, producer Giovanni Storaro, and notary Luigi Pocaterra.
The event spotlighted outstanding achievements in the wine sector over the past year. Luca Maroni honored the finest Italian labels, from prestigious wineries to emerging producers, with scores ranging from 96 to 99 in the 2025 Annual Report. The awards recognized excellence across multiple categories, including white, red, sweet, and sparkling wines, offering a comprehensive view of Italy’s diverse wine landscape.
Meanwhile, Francesca Romana Maroni introduced two significant projects contributing to the sector:
- Somma Sapienza, a wine produced from the grapes of the Vigneto Italia, planted in 2018 within the Rome Botanical Garden Museum, which was tasted by guests during the ceremony.
- Voloorto, a volunteer initiative supported by Sens, designed to encourage citizen participation in preserving the biodiversity of the Rome Botanical Garden.
Mediterranean Rhythms and a Unique Sensory Experience
Adding to the evening’s enchanting atmosphere were performances of traditional dance, where skilled dancers brought to life the intense rhythms of pizzica and tarantella. These captivating performances allowed the audience to immerse themselves in a cultural journey that combined the pleasure of wine with the expressive power of Mediterranean traditions.
With an exciting lineup of tastings, workshops, and exclusive meetings with industry experts, The Best Italian Wines 2025 remains a must-attend event for wine lovers and professionals alike.
