Spanish Wine Federation Hosts Key Meeting in Tenerife to Address Industry Challenges

In a significant gathering aimed at tackling the pressing issues within the wine industry, the Spanish Wine Federation (FEV) convened in La Guancha, Tenerife. This meeting served as a platform for industry leaders to discuss the current state of the sector and explore potential strategies for improvement.

Convergence of Wine Associations

The meeting took place at the AVIBO headquarters, which is part of the Designation of Origin (DOP) Islas Canarias. It attracted a diverse group of representatives from various wine associations across Spain, including the Navarra Wineries Association (ABN), AECAVA, ANEV, Rías Baixas winemakers, Bodegas Riojanas, FEDEJEREZ, and the Provincial Association of Wines and Alcoholic Beverages of Córdoba. This convergence of industry stakeholders aimed to foster collaboration and address the myriad challenges currently facing the wine sector.

Voices from the Local Wine Community

Chaired by Santiago Frías, who also serves as the president of Bodegas Riojanas, the meeting featured contributions from several prominent figures in the local wine community. Among those present were Juan Jesús Méndez Siverio, president of AVIBO, and José Luis Benítez, general director of the FEV. Key members of the AVIBO board, including Clara Rodríguez from Bodegas El Lomo, Felipe Monje from Bodegas Monje, Sofía Monshouwer from Bodegas Piedra Fluida, and Agustín Farráis from Bodegas Tajinaste, shared their valuable insights regarding the unique challenges faced by winemakers in the Canary Islands. Their perspectives highlighted the distinct environmental and economic factors that influence wine production in this region.

Strategic Conversations and Future Pathways

Throughout the discussions, participants focused on the common obstacles that the Spanish wine industry encounters, including market competition, climate change, and the need for sustainable practices. The role of FEV committees as platforms for regional coordination was emphasized, showcasing the importance of collaboration among different wine-producing regions. A notable highlight of the meeting was the presentation of the FEDEJEREZ model, which aims to enhance collaboration among wine producers and improve overall industry standards.

Institutional addresses were delivered by several key figures, including Eduardo García Cabello, Deputy Minister for Primary Sector of the Government of the Canary Islands; Valentín E. González Évora, councillor of the Tenerife Cabildo; and Juan Ramón Marín, General Director of Agriculture for the regional government. Each speaker underscored the critical importance of the wine sector to the regional economy and the necessity of preserving the agricultural landscape of the Canary Islands. Their remarks served to reinforce the idea that the wine industry is not only a cultural asset but also a vital economic driver for the region.

The event concluded with a visit to the Viñátigo winery, where attendees had the opportunity to observe the winemaking process in northern Tenerife. This hands-on experience allowed participants to gain a deeper understanding of the techniques and challenges involved in local wine production. Following the visit, a lunch featuring wines from the DOP Islas Canarias was served, providing an opportunity for participants to taste and appreciate the region’s offerings firsthand.

Key points

• The Spanish Wine Federation convened in La Guancha, Tenerife, to discuss industry challenges.
• Representatives from various wine associations across Spain participated in the meeting.
• Santiago Frías chaired the meeting, alongside other key figures from the wine sector.
• Local winemakers provided insights into the unique challenges faced in the Canary Islands.
• The FEDEJEREZ model was presented as a means to enhance collaboration among producers.
• Institutional addresses highlighted the strategic importance of the wine industry to the regional economy.
• The event included a visit to the Viñátigo winery and a tasting of local wines.