New global fair turns Barcelona into capital of wine

Showcasing the range and quality of wine from all around Spain is the aim of the first ever Barcelona Wine Week (BWW), which is being held at the Catalan capital's Montjuïc congress venue from Monday until Wednesday.

Some 550 companies are taking part in the wine fair, with representation of 40 winegrowing areas recognized by their designation of origin (DO), the classification that vouches for the quality and geographical origin of Spain's wine producers.

It is the first time that BWW is being held, and the organizers say they want the fair to be a "disruptive event" that boosts the profile of Spanish wines, added to the fair's aspiration to become the leading wine event in Spain. 

The fair intends to take place every two years, and aims for a broad reach as a multidisciplinary event offering attendees from across the sector the chance to network, while highlighting the economic, cultural and gastronomic aspects of wine.

Alimentaria fair spin-off

BWW is organized by Alimentaria Exhibitions, the organization behind the Alimentaria food and drinks fair, one of the European sector's largest trade fairs that takes place every two years in Barcelona, and which draws over 140,000 visitors.

On a smaller scale - the fair is hoping to attract over 18,000 visitors - BWW will offer two main sections, one for Spain's largest wine producing groups (BWW Groups), and another larger area for wineries exhibiting under their DO (BWW Lands).

Meanwhile, producers of distilled wines, such as brandy, also get their own area (Barcelona Cocktail Art), while the BWW Gastronomy section promotes the Mediterranean diet and the nutritional value of wine, with the involvement of some of Barcelona's top restaurants.

With talks, tastings, round tables and training sessions, the BWW Hub area focuses on innovation, aiming to explore the links between the world of wine and culture, and including such things as artistic installations and tastings paired with music.

Professionals and public welcome

While primarily an event aimed at sector professionals - BWW has invited some 300 major international buyers from 50 countries - the general public is also welcome at the event to enjoy the wines and learn more about their different aspects.

For example, Fabulous 50 by Women is a bar of 50 wines selected, elaborated, promoted or starred by women and recognized national oenologists, while off-site, BWW likes the city! sees restaurants, hotels, and specialized shops around Barcelona also participating.  

In all, the fair offers a program of over 50 activities, with talks and round tables by leading figures in the world of wine, dealing with such subjects as sustainability, climate change, the impact of technology on wine, and the latest trends in wine tourism.