Regions of Emphasis

While the Virginia Wine Expo is an international wine event which places special emphasis on wines from Virginia, the event will also emphasize two additional wine regions, facilitating a deeper understanding and more thorough exploration of those regions by our attendees.  For 2024, the Regions of Emphasis will be Italy and Oregon.

International Region of Emphasis: Italy

Italy boasts one of the world's most beautiful and diverse wine regions and is also one of the world's biggest wine producers along with Spain and France.  With a history of producing wine going back to at least 1000 B.C., Italy grows more than 350 varieties of wine grapes, although arguably its most famous wines are made with Sangiovese (Chianti and Brunello), Nebbiolo (Barolo and Barbaresco), Pinot Grigio, and Glera (Prosecco).  'Super Tuscan' wines, which describe red wines from Tuscany made with indigenous and non-indigenous grapes (such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Cabernet Franc), are also very popular.

National Region of Emphasis: Oregon

Oregon is one of the most famous wine regions in the United States, consisting of more than 1,050 wineries and five wine regions.   Oregon's climate is ideal for growing world class Pinot Noir, which makes up more than 50% of Oregon's grape production.   Additionally, Oregon produces high quality Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Syrah, Riesling, and Cabernet Sauvignon.