About the event
Meeting of the Minds
As a highly anticipated annual event in the global wine calendar, the 7th edition of The Old Vine Conference will be the most significant event yet, in the journey of the global old vine movement. Meeting of the Minds will be an in-person series of tastings, seminars, panel debates, masterclasses and old-vine field-trips kicking off with a unique coming-together with The Global Wine Buyers Market place. The Old Vine Conference 2025, Meeting of The Minds, will draw an international audience of trade and media to discuss the most pressing issues facing the worlds old vines.
WHat we’re doing
Friday - Gala Tasting & Dinner
Gala Tasting: Old vine wines from California & around the world
Address from Jancis Robinson MW, followed by in-conversation-with Paul Draper.
Gala Dinner: Culinary Institute of America, 500 1st Street, Napa
The 5-day series of events will commence with a walk-around tasting of old vine wines from California and the world at the Old Vine Wine Gala Tasting. The Gala Tasting will feature a curated list of 130 international old vine wines and a superb showcase of California’s finest old vine wines. Attendees will have the rare opportunity to experience a thoughtfully curated assortment of exceptional vintages that highlight the heritage and craftsmanship of old vine winemaking.
Shortly afterwards guests will be invited to attend an address from Jancis Robinson MW followed by an in-conversation-with legendary winemaker Paul Draper before the start of our Opening Night Gala Dinner, an evening of celebration held in conjunction with the Wine Institute’s Global Buyers Marketplace. This exclusive gathering presents an unparalleled networking opportunity, bringing together the most esteemed figures in today’s wine industry.
Saturday - Conference Day 1
Economic Crossroads: Healthy vines, healthy bottom line
Hyatt Ballroom | 170 Railroad St, Santa Rosa
A look at the economic realities of farming California’s old vines, with insights on balancing heritage and profitability in today’s market.
Moderated by: Rebecca Robinson, Executive Director, ZAP
Panellists: Tegan Passalaqua, winemaker at Turley Wine Cellars, Bob Biale, founder at Robert Biale Vineyards & Mark Vernon, CEO at Ridge Vineyards and Karen DeGoila of Limerick Lane.
Learn more about the event here.