In contrast to the world of politics, which is currently experiencing a dramatic global divide, the world of wine is striving for consolidation and dialogue. A key role in this process is played by the industry’s leading trade fair, ProWein.
In 2026, the world’s most influential wine exhibition promises to showcase significant – even transformative – changes. What are they?
In 2026, one of the world’s most influential events in the wine and spirits industry – ProWein 2026 – will take place in Düsseldorf from March 15 to 17, presenting itself in a radically updated format. The exhibition is expected to welcome guests from 140 countries, more than 5,000 exhibitors from over 65 countries, and representatives of more than 500 wine-growing regions worldwide. This year’s programme stands out for its scale, innovation, and new formats designed to shape the future of the global wine industry.
As the organisers emphasise, in 2026, winemakers, wine suppliers, and grape growers will gather in Düsseldorf for a major “reunion,” showcasing their finest wines from around the world. Whether your interest lies in wines from Europe, Africa, North or South America, Asia, or Oceania, ProWein offers a unique opportunity to embark on a global wine journey – visiting tasting areas that would otherwise require long-haul flights.
Key Events and Thematic Areas of ProWein 2026
ProWein 2026 presents an expanded program that combines education, tastings, trend insights, and professional networking.
Among the main thematic hubs are:
- Sparkling Visions – a new stage showcases the true potential of this category: economically strong, stylistically diverse, and globally relevant.
- ProWein Zero – a dedicated platform for the No & Low category, featuring new discussion formats and presentations by leading brands.
- Organic World – a specialised zone showcasing organic wines, certification systems, and sustainable production practices.
- Champagne Lounge – an exclusive space to explore leading Champagne houses and taste premium selections.
- Packaging & Design – a focus on innovations in bottle design, materials, and environmentally friendly packaging solutions.
- Urban Gastronomy – a fresh perspective on food and wine pairings within contemporary urban culinary culture.
In addition to its thematic hubs, ProWein 2026 offers a comprehensive educational programme, including seminars, masterclasses, tasting sessions, and discussions led by leading industry experts.
This year, the exhibition clearly structures its content around eight key product categories. From premium wines from renowned regions to distinctive offerings from craft producers, from sparkling wines and Champagne to fine spirits, ProWein presents the full spectrum of the alcohol industry. The showcase is further enriched by innovative no- and low-alcohol products.
A dedicated area is also reserved for essential accessories for the wine trade and gastronomy, as well as hardware and software solutions, professional services, and mineral water brands.
ProWein City Vibes 2026: Düsseldorf as the Capital of Taste
For years, there has been a lingering debate about what Düsseldorf offers visitors beyond the leading exhibition hub itself. Comparisons with Paris, Verona, or London have often not worked in the German city’s favour. In 2026, however, this narrative is set to change. ProWein is launching a true leisure revolution.
One of the most anticipated new initiatives is ProWein City Vibes 2026 – a large-scale city festival running from March 12 to 17, 2026, transforming Düsseldorf into a vibrant centre of contemporary wine and spirits culture.
The program includes:
- pop-up tastings
- gastronomic collaborations
- art events and music formats
- special wine menus in bars and restaurants
- interactive spaces and new wine and spirits experiences
ProWein 2026: Where the Future of the Industry Is Shaped
ProWein remains the largest and most influential professional platform for winemakers, importers, distributors, sommeliers, and restaurateurs worldwide. In 2026, the exhibition offers:
- a global overview of key industry trends
- opportunities to discover new partners and markets
- access to the latest products, innovations, and concepts
- world-class professional networking
It is worth reminding those who may have forgotten: ProWein 2026 is not merely an exhibition, but an intellectual and cultural hub of the global wine industry, a place where ideas are formed and directions are set for years to come. Participation is therefore essential for every forward-looking producer.
⇒Drinks+, a permanent information partner of ProWein, also announces a true must-have: at the ProWein media stands, visitors and exhibitors will be able to receive a free copy of the latest catalog of the WINE TRAVEL AWARDS 2024-2025 nominees.
This publication was created through the extraordinary efforts of the Ukrainian editorial team in Kyiv – a city frozen yet unbreakable – under conditions of power outages, limited heating, and constant rocket attacks. Despite these challenges, the catalog has become a bright and inspiring guide to the international wine and wine tourism community. Featuring both world-renowned and small craft wineries, guides and gastro-bloggers, travel agencies, and wine museums from across the globe, it has evolved into a true ambassador of peace. Filled with sunny personalities and the product of the sun itself – wine – this guide radiates remarkable energy. See for yourself!
⇔As is tradition, we also invite you to visit the Ukrainian joint stand under the Wines of Ukraine brand at ProWein 2026.
⇒ In addition, Drinks+ announces the preparation of a bilingual special issue of the magazine (English–Ukrainian) for ProWein 2026, dedicated to the anniversary of the most authoritative association of the Ukrainian wine sector – Ukrsadvinprom. Producers interested in international representation are invited to participate on special terms.
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