This place, located in the wild Gravina del Fullonese, boasts a history rich in evolution: founded in the 16th century by the Capuchin fathers, it has gone through eras and transformations, from a mendicant's hospice to a girls' boarding school. Today, the ancient structure presents itself as an authentic cultural center, living testimony to the historical and architectural heritage of Grottaglie.
More than 60 winemakers from all over Italy, but also from Austria, Spain, Slovenia and Lebanon, will compete in this culturally rich setting, a few steps from the historic heart of the city. Over 400 labels for tasting to offer sector operators and enthusiasts the opportunity to explore a true oenological treasure.
"Natural Evolution" is not just an encounter with wine, but a full immersion in the stories, techniques and art that characterize the artisanal production of wine.
The fifth edition is further enriched with the introduction of the "Fuori Salone Evoluzione Naturale" on 27 January 2024 . This traveling event will transform the historic city of Grottaglie, famous for its ceramic traditions and generous vineyards, into a stage for tastings and exclusive meetings. Each venue will host some of the protagonists of "Natural Evolution", offering the opportunity to meet the winemakers, taste their wines and share experiences in a context of absolute relaxation.
On Sunday 28 January , after the official opening, the thematic workshop "2022 and 2023: two years, a difficult synthesis" will be held. Moderated by Matteo Gallello , wine journalist, taster and teacher, the workshop will see the participation of Mario Malagoli , professor at the University of Padua, and Paolo Ravano , agronomic consultant. Together they will share reflections on soil management and understanding vine physiology, offering a unique perspective on two extreme vintages.
On 28 and 29 January , from 11:00 to 19:00 , the tasting stands will officially open to sector operators and enthusiasts of wine produced by winemakers who embrace the philosophy of respectful cultivation of the vines following sustainability criteria in the entire production chain. Alongside the winemakers, the artisans of taste will offer their creations accompanied by fine glasses.
A tasting workshop, on Sunday 28 January at 1.30pm, conducted by Matteo Gallello, one of the best experts in the natural wine movement in Italy and abroad, will stimulate thoughts and discussions through tastings of a selection of wines from the vintages 2014 and 2015 . A unique opportunity to explore the climatic differences and the profoundly different outcomes of two contiguous vintages.
"Natural Evolution" is more than a wine event, it is a declaration of commitment towards sustainability and authenticity in the world of wine. The fifth edition promises to be a moment of discovery, a journey into the heart of taste, where past and present merge in a symphony of flavors and culture.
