Merano WineFestival
The European showcase for exceptional wines at the Kurhaus in Merano, since 1992
About Merano WineFestival
The premier wine showcase in Merano
The Merano WineFestival is one of Europe's most prestigious food and wine events. Founded in 1992 by Helmuth Köcher and organized by Gourmet's International, the event takes place every year in early November in the heart of Merano, in the province of Bolzano, within the monumental Kurhaus overlooking the Passirio river. It is not merely a wine fair, but a true showcase of excellence where wineries and producers are rigorously selected by the tasting committees of The WineHunter guide.
A landmark event for South Tyrol
With its motto "Excellence is an attitude!", the festival attracts thousands of enthusiasts, industry professionals, international buyers, and journalists from all over the world every year. The Art Nouveau halls of the Kurhaus, the Puccini Theatre, and the GourmetArena host tasting tables, cooking shows, talks, and award ceremonies, making Merano the meeting point for the world of quality wine for five days.
The structure of the event
The festival program is organized into thematic appointments that define the week:
- TasteTerroir – bio&dynamica: the opening day dedicated to organic, biodynamic, natural, PIWI, and no-low alcohol wines, for those who value respect for the land and a forward-looking approach.
- The Festival: the beating heart of the event, featuring the best Italian and international wineries gathered in the halls of the Kurhaus.
- Catwalk Champagne & more: the closing day reserved for sparkling wines, featuring legendary Champagnes and exceptional sparkling wines.
- Masterclasses, Summits, and The WineHunter Awards: guided tastings, in-depth meetings, and the presentation of the WineHunter Awards to the best products.
Why it is an unmissable event
The Merano WineFestival combines the tourist and spa appeal of Merano with a passion for high-end gastronomy. For enthusiasts, it is an opportunity to discover rare labels, emerging producers, and great wine houses in a single location, while for the South Tyrol region, it represents a premier international showcase. The autumnal setting of the city, with its historic arcades and gardens along the Passirio, adds charm to an event that has become a symbol of Italian excellence worldwide.
Merano WineFestival — edition 2026
The Merano WineFestival 2026 celebrates its 35th edition from November 6 to 10, 2026, within the spaces of the Kurhaus of Merano, with events also held at the Puccini Theatre, the GourmetArena, and affiliated venues. Organized by Gourmet's International under the leadership of Helmuth Köcher, the festival confirms its status as a benchmark for excellence in wine and gastronomy. Wineries and producers are selected by the committees of The WineHunter guide, a guarantee of quality that has made Merano an unmissable event for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Programme Merano WineFestival 2026
Friday, November 6 — TasteTerroir – bio&dynamica
- 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM — Day dedicated to organic, biodynamic, natural, PIWI, and no-low alcohol wines, with gastronomic tastings in the GourmetArena.
Saturday, November 7 – Monday, November 9 — The Festival
- The beating heart of the event: the best Italian and international wineries gathered in the halls of the Kurhaus, with tasting tables, masterclasses, and Summit talks at the Puccini Theatre.
Tuesday, November 10 — Catwalk Champagne & more
- 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM — Closing day reserved for sparkling wines, featuring great Champagnes and excellent Italian and international sparkling wines.
Throughout the week, masterclasses, guided tastings, and the presentation of The WineHunter Awards will take place. The detailed program with exhibitors and full schedules will be published on the official website in the weeks leading up to the event.
Highlights Merano WineFestival 2026
Prices Merano WineFestival 2026
Practical information — Merano WineFestival
How to get there
The Kurhaus of Merano is located on Corso della Libertà, in the city center just a short walk from the train station. By train, Merano is connected to Bolzano with frequent services; from Bolzano, it takes about 40 minutes. By car, take the A22 motorway exit at Bolzano Sud and then the MeBo expressway to Merano. The nearest airport is Bolzano; international flights are available in Verona and Innsbruck.
Tickets
Admission is ticketed with daily passes and subscriptions for the various thematic days, available for purchase on the official website meranowinefestival.com. Advance booking is recommended, especially for masterclasses with limited seating.
Tips
November is high season in Merano: book your accommodation well in advance. Take advantage of your visit to explore the thermal baths, the historic center, and the surrounding Burgraviato area.
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Where does it take place — Merano WineFestival
Kurhaus di Merano
Corso della Libertà 33, 39012 Merano/Meran