The Delicata Classic Wine Festival, one of Malta’s greatest wine events, is back for its 15th edition at the Upper Barrakka Gardens, Valletta, between Thursday and Sunday from 7pm until midnight.
The festival is the showcase for Malta’s wines par excellence. There will be 24 wines to sample as often as one likes. Vintages of nine Delicata award-winning brands are served from stalls spread along the enchanting gardens. These include the semi-sparkling Frizzantes, a selection of delectable white, red and rosé Medina and Victoria Heights boutique wines, noble mono-varietals of the iconic flagship Gran Cavalier selection and the most internationally-awarded Grand Vin de Hauteville range.
Besides the Dolcino and the Maltese Falcon wines, varietals of the classic collection as well as the Pjazza Reġina blends will also be available.
Entrance is free. To try the wines you have to purchase a wristband for the night and a souvenir glass for €14. The wristband will entitle you to taste wines offered at the several stands. No wine will be served to anyone under 17 and patrons are reminded to enjoy responsibly. The last glasses and wristbands are sold at 11pm. The last wine is served at 11.30pm and the festival closes at midnight.
Cooking stalls will be serving Maltese favourites such as suckling pig, Mediterranean and Indian dishes, sushi as well as a selection of pizza, various cheese and charcuterie platters and desserts.
A new fast-track facility for Delicata Privilege Card holders will be introduced this year. Card holders will be able to jump the queue at the cash points on the night by pre-booking online at www.delicata.com.
Another first this year is Salute!, a seated al fresco wine and fine dining experience at the reserved lower level of the Saluting Battery on Friday, Saturday and Sunday night. Salute! offers a delicious menu of plated dishes and matching wines. This is being organised by Delicata Winery in collaboration with Island Caterers. Salute! tickets will cost €45 per person One can book in advance through www.delicata.com/salute/
Patrons will be entertained by live performances every evening starting with an opening-night concert on Thursday by Cash & Band and Red Electrick, followed on Friday by Planet Seed and the Spiteri Lucas Band. Xarulù and The Crowns bands will play on Saturday, while Relick and the George Curmi il-Pusé will bring the wine event to a close on Sunday.
Festival and fast-track details can be obtained from www.delicata.com or call 2182 5199.