"Winterthur is the ideal location for a wine fair"

From exclusive wine tastings and inspiring masterclasses to discovering the diversity of Swiss wine - initiator and festival director René Zürcher provides insights into the SWISS WINE FESTIVAL and explains why Winterthur is the ideal venue for this event.

René Zürcher is the initiator and festival director of the SWISS WINE FESTIVAL.

Mr. Zürcher, why did you bring the SWISS WINE FESTIVAL to Winterthur?
René Zürcher: As the sixth largest city in Switzerland, Winterthur is the ideal location for a wine fair. The city has a long wine tradition dating back to the 16th century. Many outstanding wine producers are at home here or in the neighboring wine country. Winterthur is also known as a city of culture, with an open, curious public that appreciates quality. Its central location between Zurich, Schaffhausen and Thurgau makes Winterthur easily accessible - both for exhibiting wine producers from all over Switzerland and for wine lovers and new discoverers. The Eulachhallen is an ideal event location that offers the necessary space for all participants to feel comfortable. We want to offer a platform that puts the spotlight on Swiss wine and brings producers together with an interested audience. The best conditions for a festival of this kind.

What challenges did you face in establishing the trade fair?
Setting up a new wine fair is a demanding undertaking. The biggest challenge was to get the industry and the public excited about the concept. There are many smaller wine events in Switzerland, but there was no large, national platform for Swiss wine. We had to do pioneering work and convince both producers and consumers that Winterthur was the right place for such a festival. The first two editions have shown that the demand is there - and that both winegrowers and guests appreciate the quality and diversity of the event. Our aim is to create a sustainable platform that connects Swiss wine producers and consumers.

What should visitors to the SWISS WINE FESTIVAL definitely not miss?
I would definitely attend the free masterclasses. There are exciting insights into grape varieties, terroirs and innovative winegrowing projects from all over Switzerland. The direct exchange with the winemakers is also a highlight - because behind every bottle is a piece of local history. And, of course, simply strolling through the hall, discovering new things and enjoying Swiss wine in all its facets. Every evening we play "feinsti Schwiizer Musig" true to the motto: Mir sind Schwiiz.

The SWISS WINE FESTIVAL 2025 will take place from February 27 - March 2, 2025 in the Eulachhallen Winterthur.

SWISS WINE FESTIVAL 2025
Eulachhallen Winterthur
27. February - March 2, 2025
More info: www.swisswinefestivals.events

Interview: Giselle Martin, February 2025