Meloni’s Vinitaly Tour: A Taste of Politics and Italian Identity
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni made a significant impression at Vinitaly this year, drawing considerable attention and applause, even surpassing her previous appearance. Despite an initial cancellation of her Saturday visit due to adverse weather, the winemaking community warmly welcomed her, leading to a whirlwind tour that included stops in Trentino, Lazio, and Tuscany, as well as a visit with the re-elected governor of Abruzzo, Marco Marsilio, and the host governor of Veneto, Luca Zaia.
A Tour Between the Wines of the Regions
The atmosphere at Vinitaly was electric as Meloni navigated through the stands, engaging with winemakers and attendees. Governor Zaia of Veneto, a key figure in the region, presented Meloni with the flag of the Serenissima, a symbol of peace, noting, ”if there was a glass for the third term? No, we didn’t talk about it, I gave her the flag of the Serenissima, the only one in the world with the word peace.”
When questioned about the possibility of a third term, Meloni offered a measured response: “at parliamentary level, for now, there is no majority on the third term, but it is still early to see.” On the topic of differentiated autonomy,she provided a clear stance,stating,”Approval does not depend on me,far to the government to put pressure on parliament.”
Amidst the tasting of fine wines, including robust reds and effervescent bubbles, Meloni also addressed political matters. She commented on Elly Schlein’s call to the Middle East, expressing her approval: “I was pleased his phone call to the Middle East, a dutiful contact, I did so too when I was in the opposition. We exchanged the points of view, this can also lead to Parliament to work better.” Addressing the presence of large posters featuring her image for the election campaign, she quipped, “I am the party leader with whom others would like to do them?”
Wine, a Fundamental piece of Our Identity
The Prime Minister’s Vinitaly visit was a demanding schedule, marked by a polite refusal to empty every glass offered.even esteemed figures like journalist Bruno Vespa, a producer of Apulian wines, and oenologist Riccardo Cotarella, who manages bottles for Massimo D’Alema, found their offerings respectfully declined. Meloni explained her restraint, “In a few there is the Council of Ministers and I am on an empty stomach,” while concurrently praising wine as “a fundamental piece of our identity.”
The only bottle Meloni paused to be photographed with was the “social” wine produced by prisoners on the island of Gorgona, a project championed by Frescobaldi. this choice highlighted a commitment to social initiatives alongside her appreciation for Italian viticulture.
Meloni’s presence at Vinitaly underscored the vital role wine plays not only in Italy’s economy but also in its cultural fabric and national identity. Her interactions offered a glimpse into the intersection of politics,tradition,and the enduring appeal of Italian wine.
