The Future of Balkan Wine Starts Here!

Welcome to BIWC Conference: a space for innovation, collaboration, and vision.

CONFERENCE, NAOUSSA, 31 MAY, 2025
The conference will take place in ERIA
– Center of Industrial heritage

About Conference

The Balkans International Wine Competition is evolving, and in 2025, we are proud to introduce the first BIWC Conference: “BALKAN WINE 2040 – Vision & Possibilities.” This landmark event will take place on May 31, 2025, in Naoussa, Greece, bringing together top winemakers, industry leaders, marketers, and sommeliers for an exclusive discussion on the future of Balkan wines.

The conference aims to foster knowledge exchange and collaboration, tackling the key challenges and opportunities that will shape the regional wine industry over the next 15 years.

Through expert panels and engaging discussions, we will explore topics such as climate change, the role of indigenous grape varieties, global positioning of Balkan wines, and the potential of wine tourism.

Whether you are a winemaker, wine professional, or enthusiast, this is a unique opportunity to gain valuable insights, connect with industry experts, and contribute to the future of Balkan wine.

Official Opening & Welcome Speech

BIWC Managing
Director

BIWC Managing Director

Mayor of
Naoussa

Mayor of Naoussa

President of Naoussa
Wine Association

President of Naoussa Wine Association

Оwner,
Kir Yinni estate

Оwner, Kir Yinni estate

BIWC
President

BIWC President

CONFERENCE PROGRAM

The Balkans International Wine Competition is evolving, and in 2025, we are proud to introduce the first BIWC Conference: “BALKAN WINE 2040 – Vision & Possibilities.” This landmark event will take place on May 31, 2025, in Naoussa, Greece, bringing together top winemakers, industry leaders, marketers, and sommeliers for an exclusive discussion on the future of Balkan wines.

The conference aims to foster knowledge exchange and collaboration, tackling the key challenges and opportunities that will shape the regional wine industry over the next 15 years.

  • 16:00 – 17:00  – Master class – Balkan rose – Elizabeth Gabay MW
  • 17:30 – 18:30 – master class – Best of Balkans – Rod Smith MW

BALKAN WINE FESTIVAL

  • 18:00 – 22:00 – Balkan wines exhibition from all Balkan countries
  • 22:00 – DJ Party – closing the 14th BIWC  2024


Visitors will have the unique pleasure of tasting wines from all Balkan countries, showcasing the rich diversity and excellence of the region.

Ready to Attend?

Discover MORE

During the Conference

16:00 – 17:00

The Balkans are home to some of the most distinctive rosé wines, crafted from both indigenous and international grape varieties. This master class will explore the key regions, winemaking techniques, and unique characteristics of Balkan rosés, focusing on how terroir, grape selection, and climate influence their style.

17:30 – 18:30

What distinguishes a Trophy-winning wine in a competitive blind tasting? This master class offers a rare opportunity to taste the highest-rated wines from the 13th Balkans International Wine Competition, focusing on the precise winemaking decisions, structural balance, and technical excellence that earned them top recognition.

Conference + BALKAN WINE FESTIVAL

ERIA building, Naoussa

BALKAN WINE FESTIVAL, Naoussa – Do you want to taste wines from each of the Balkan countries? Come and meet the producers! Feel the amazing Balkan spirit!

FREE Entry to the festival if you have a Conference Ticket

This conference is organised by the Balkans International Wine Competition (BIWC), in its mission to promote and connect the Balkan wine industry.

UNDER THE AUSPICES OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF HEROIC CITY OF NAOUSSA