We Ask Rodolphe Lameyse, CEO Vinexposium, about this year’s Vinexpo
As the global wine and spirits industry continues to evolve amid shifting markets and new consumer dynamics, Vinexpo America 2025 steps into a new chapter—one marked by strategic growth, greater connectivity, and an exciting relocation to Miami.
In this exclusive Q&A with Rodolphe Lameyse, CEO of Vinexposium, shares what’s in store for this year’s event and why the move to Miami is more than just a change in venue. Vinexpo America remains a must-attend platform for producers, buyers, and innovators looking to shape the future of the industry.
What’s new or different about Vinexpo America 2025, what can we expect this year?
Vinexpo America 2025 introduces a major evolution with its move to Miami—a strategic choice that positions the event at the gateway to North, Central, and South America, as well as the Caribbean. The city’s international reach and vibrant hospitality scene make it the perfect hub to expand trade opportunities and build connections across the entire region. This edition will bring together 280 exhibitors from than 25 countries, a dynamic masterclass and conference program via the Vinexpo Academy all designed to foster high-level networking and business development in a more global, inclusive setting.
Are there any standout brands, first-time exhibitors, or emerging regions attendees should be watching for?
Vinexpo America reflects Vinexposium’s mission: to unite buyers and producers from across the wine and spirits industry under one roof. It’s not just a trade show, it’s a strategic meeting point designed to foster connections, encourage discovery, and support the industry’s evolution. As part of this role, Vinexpo America is committed to bringing something new each year, fresh perspectives, new markets, and emerging trends to inspire both producers and buyers.
This year, attendees can look forward to exciting debuts and diverse offerings across wine, spirits, cider, and sake. Notable highlights include the first-ever German pavilion featuring the Rhineland-Palatinate region under the Rheinland-Pfalz Gold brand, as well as a Colorado pavilion debuting with distilleries, a sake producer, cider maker, and winery. Argentina is also exhibiting with two pavilions including one from the Mendoza region, showcasing 12 producers.
What kinds of tastings, masterclasses, or panels should visitors make sure not to miss?**
Visitors won’t want to miss this year’s dynamic lineup of conferences and masterclasses, a truly key pillar of the Vinexpo America experience. These sessions offer invaluable insights into the latest industry trends, challenges, and opportunities, and are designed to inspire both strategic thinking and meaningful connections. Themes explored include: the evolution of the U.S. market, the impact of new generations on consumption, the role of terroir in defining identity, and the future of gastronomy and sommellerie.
Highlights include expert-led sessions such as “Importing and Distributing in the US: Finding Opportunities in 2025” by MHW Ltd., “Wine Talks Miami: Inside the Florida Wine Market” moderated by Sarah Phillips, “Glass Half Full: BevAlc’s Silver Linings in a Turbulent Market” with the IWSR, and a “Focus Agave” masterclass by The Agave Spirits Institute. The full list of
Academy sessions is available online: vinexpo-america.com/academy
For someone attending Vinexpo America for the first time, what’s your one piece of advice to get the most out of it?
For first-time attendees but not only, preparation is key to making the most of Vinexpo America. We strongly recommend reviewing the full exhibitor list ahead of time and identifying key contacts you’d like to meet. To facilitate networking and business connections, we have set up an online business matching service that allows visitors to book meetings directly through the event platform. Also, we would recommend not to wait any longer to register, spaces are limited, and securing a badge early ensures smooth access and timely updates.
The full exhibitor list and meeting tools are available online: vinexpo-america.com
After the growing success of Wine Paris, why has Vinexposium chosen to expand internationally, particularly to the U.S. market with Vinexpo America?
Vinexposium’s mission is to unite the global wine and spirits community by creating meaningful business opportunities across key markets. While Wine Paris has become a major international meeting point in Europe, expanding to the U.S. through Vinexpo America is a strategic move to meet professionals where they are in one of the world’s most dynamic and influential beverage alcohol markets. It’s also part of a larger vision: to offer localized, high-value platforms around the world that reflect the specific challenges, trends, and trade environments of each region.
By growing internationally, Vinexposium ensures year-round engagement and offers producers the chance to connect with buyers in-person, closer to their markets at Vinexpo Asia (Singapore and Hong Kong), Vinexpo India (Mumbai), the World Bulk Wine Exhibition (Amsterdam), and Vinexpo Explorer (next edition in Mendoza).
Why is it important for the industry to come together in the current economic context, especially with ongoing challenges like tariffs and global uncertainty?
In times of economic tension, fluctuating tariffs, and shifting trade dynamics, coming together as an industry is more essential than ever. Events like Vinexpo America offer a much-needed platform for producers, importers, distributors, and trade professionals to connect, exchange insights, and navigate challenges collaboratively. It’s not only about doing business, it’s about reinforcing the strength, adaptability, and unity of the global wine and spirits community.
For more information visit: Vinexpo
Event Dates: May 7-8, 2025
Complimentary Badge with Code: CHILLED25
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