Regional Institute of Wine and Oil

Sicily takes center stage at the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles: a step toward UNESCO nomination for the sweet and fortified wines of the "Fascia del Sole"

Commissioner Mistretta: "This is a project of extraordinary strategic value. It's an opportunity to leverage our local roots and address the sector's global challenges."

From September 16th to 20th, Catania hosted the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles, one of the most prestigious international wine events. This was a truly remarkable occasion, where Sicilian winemaking tradition established itself as a recognized global excellence.

The choice of Sicily as a stage of the 2024 Tour represented a strategic opportunity, giving impetus to the UNESCO candidacy for the recognition of the sweet and fortified wines of the so-called “Sun Band” — the cultural and productive axis that unites Marsala, Jerez, and Samos — as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity.

In this regard, Giusy Mistretta, Extraordinary Commissioner of the Regional Institute of Wine and Oil (IRVO), stated: “This is a project of extraordinary strategic value. It's not just about promoting high-quality wines, but about protecting a heritage of landscapes, winemaking techniques, and artisanal know-how that are at risk of disappearing. We wholeheartedly support an initiative that looks to the future, valorizing its roots and strengthening the region's ability to jointly address the sector's global challenges.”

At the Session dedicated to Sweet and Fortified WinesSicily participated with some of its most representative denominations: Marsala, Passiti di Pantelleria, Malvasie delle Lipari, Moscati di Noto and di Siracusa.

The Concours Mondial de Bruxelles, in addition to being an important international showcase, actively promotes environmental sustainability, innovation and synergy between the actors in the winemaking supply chain.
As Mistretta further emphasizes: “The value of events of this caliber lies in their ability to create networks, foster intercultural dialogue, and strengthen the international positioning of our territories.”