Conquering Italy, One Sip at a Time: The Gambero Rosso Top Italian Wines Roadshow- Nairobi Recap!

Laughter, conversation, and the clinking of glasses filled the air as the second edition of this prestigious event unfolded in grand style. Attendees eagerly immersed themselves in a world of fine wine, eager to explore Italy’s rich winemaking heritage sip by sip.

This year’s roadshow kicked off the 2025 tour, a global journey spanning 34 stops over nine months. As part of Gambero Rosso’s signature events—the Vini d ’Italia Tour, Tre Bicchieri Tour, and Top Italian Wines Roadshow—Nairobi continues to cement its place on the international wine map, drawing the attention of global winemakers and local enthusiasts alike.

Expanding Kenya’s Wine Market

Now in its second year, the event saw significant growth, reflecting Kenya’s increasing appetite for premium wines. The selection of wines introduced to Kenya grew from 150 to 170, offering attendees an even bigger selection of flavors and styles to explore. The number of participating producers grew from 35 to 44, with nine new producers eager to tap into Kenya’s expanding premium wine market. This growth is a testament to Kenya’s evolving wine culture, where appreciation for quality and craftsmanship continues to rise.

Beyond the numbers, the event underscored a shifting dynamic in Kenya’s hospitality and dining scenes. More restaurants, hotels, and retailers are embracing premium wines, catering to a discerning clientele that values authenticity, heritage, and excellence. With each sip, attendees were not only tasting Italy’s best but also contributing to a broader conversation about the future of wine culture in Kenya.

As the Gambero Rosso tour continues its global journey, we celebrate the invaluable role that VinPodium plays in expanding the premium wine market in Kenya. Their commitment to bringing world-class wine experiences to Nairobi is shaping the local industry, and we are honored to have been part of this remarkable collaboration.

Masterclass & Wine Walkthrough

One of the standout moments of the day was the Masterclass Session, an immersive experience that took wine appreciation to a whole new level. Led by Victoria Mulu-Munywoki Gambero Rosso’s Kenyan partner, and Giuseppe Carrus, Editor of Vini d ‘Italia Magazine, this session featured an exclusive tasting and etiquette class showcasing 22 expertly selected wines. Attendees had the opportunity to deepen their understanding of Italian wine regions, the nuances of different varietals, and the art of food and wine pairing. It was an engaging and interactive session that left many eager to refine their palates and incorporate their newfound knowledge into future wine selections.

Complementing the masterclass was the wine tasting walkthrough, an equally engaging experience that allowed attendees to explore a variety of wines with expert guidance. Whether seasoned connoisseurs or first-time tasters, guests were able to sample and learn in a dynamic setting that encouraged questions, discussions, and personal discoveries. The joy of swirling, sniffing, and sipping was evident on every face, as each pour revealed new flavors, aromas, and textures.

Celebrating Excellence in Italian Cuisine

The event wasn’t just about wine—it was also a celebration of Italian culinary excellence. The much-anticipated awards ceremony recognized Nairobi’s top Italian restaurants, pizzerias, and wine shops, honoring establishments that have upheld the finest traditions of Italian gastronomy. The awards underscored the growing presence and influence of authentic Italian dining experiences in Kenya, spotlighting the passionate chefs, sommeliers, and restaurateurs dedicated to delivering world-class experiences.

For the winners, the recognition was a testament to their commitment to quality, service, and authenticity. For attendees, it was a chance to discover new dining gems and deepen their appreciation for the artistry behind exceptional Italian cuisine. The ceremony added an extra layer of prestige to the event, reinforcing the strong cultural and culinary ties between Italy and Kenya.

Seamless Execution, Lasting Impact: Our Contribution to the Event

For the second year in a row, we were honored to be the official Communications Partner for this extraordinary event. From curating the guest list to ensuring a seamless check-in experience, we worked behind the scenes to create a welcoming and well-orchestrated event.

Our role went beyond publicity—we were storytellers, capturing the essence of the roadshow and sharing it with a wider audience. Through strategic media engagement, compelling digital storytelling, and thoughtful content creation, we amplified the event’s impact, ensuring that its influence extended far beyond the venue.

Being part of Gambero Rosso’s footprint on the African continent is a privilege we hold dear. As advocates of powerful narratives, we recognize the role of storytelling in shaping perceptions and driving conversations. This event was more than just an opportunity to showcase fine wine—it was a chance to foster connections, inspire new experiences, and celebrate a shared love for craftsmanship and culture.

We look forward to the next opportunity to sip, savor, and share in this extraordinary experience. Because in every glass, there’s a story waiting to be told—and we’ll be there to tell it!