Resounding Success at the VI Ribeira Sacra Wine Fair in Monforte
Resounding Success at the VI Ribeira Sacra Wine Fair in Monforte
Last weekend, from July 5 to 7, the VI Ribeira Sacra Wine Fair was held with great success in the surroundings of the Malecón in Monforte de Lemos. The event stood out for the quality of the wines presented, as well as its varied cultural and gastronomic offerings. A total of 34 wineries participated in the fair, representing the five subzones of the Ribeira Sacra Denomination of Origin: Amandi, Chantada, Quiroga-Bibei, Ribeiras do Miño, and Ribeiras do Sil. Attendees were able to taste a wide range of wines, reflecting the diversity and excellence of this wine region. The work of the Ribeira Sacra Denomination of Origin and its president, Antonio Lombardia, was highlighted during the event. In his inaugural speech, Lombardia emphasized the commitment of grape growers and winemakers to maintain the quality and authenticity of the region's wines. In his address, he paid tribute to those who saved the vineyards from abandonment in difficult times, highlighting their effort and dedication as key to the resurgence and current prosperity of the Ribeira Sacra. In a very personal speech, he mentioned his father, Mario Lombardia, as one of those wine devotees who helped keep the Sil, Miño, and Cabe riversides active when the denomination of origin was not even a project. "We want to continue bringing the name of the Ribeira Sacra to every corner of the world, respecting our traditions and our natural environment," he said. The festival included a varied program of complementary activities. From the performance of the Real Banda de Gaitas of the Ourense Provincial Council at the inauguration to concerts by Gin Toni's and the local group Malenne. Additionally, free tasting workshops and masterclasses were offered by experts such as Iván Olmedo and David Pascual, along with children's activities like storytelling and pottery workshops. The venue also featured a gastronomy area, with 12 participants offering local products such as cheeses, hams, and dishes prepared by Monforte restaurants. The mayor of Monforte, present at the inauguration, highlighted that the fair attracts thousands of visitors each year, boosting the local economy and benefiting the hospitality and trade sectors of the region. Additionally, the popular Wine Routes, both by Quad through the Ribeira del Sil and by Zodiac along the Miño, offered visitors a unique way to explore the natural beauty of the Ribeira Sacra. With a spectacular closing and a large turnout, the VI Ribeira Sacra Wine Fair has established itself as one of the most important and anticipated events on Spain's wine calendar.