The preparations for the parallel celebrations accompanying the Central Act of the National Grape Harvest Festival (Fiesta Nacional de la Vendimia) are well underway. Among these, the highly anticipated Agasajo de Bodegas de Argentina has officially announced its date, venue, and time.
This prestigious event will take place at Espacio Arizu in Godoy Cruz on Saturday, March 8, at 12:30 PM.
A New Alternative: The Traditional Grape Stomping Ceremony
With the Central Act tickets sold out, attendees and wine enthusiasts will have an alternative way to participate in the festivities: the traditional Pisada de la Uva (Grape Stomping Ceremony). Organized by the national wine business chamber, this event is part of the official calendar of the National Grape Harvest Festival in Mendoza.
Each year, this gathering brings together key figures from the provincial and national wine industry, alongside business leaders from various sectors, government officials, and the general public. It is a vital meeting point for the wine industry, fostering networking, discussions, and celebrations.
A Noteworthy Incident from the Past
The event is not without its historical moments. In 2020, then-Governor Rodolfo Suarez faced significant noise and commotion during his speech. Frustrated by the lack of attention, he left the event, marking an uncomfortable and unforgettable moment. Organizers aim to ensure such disruptions do not occur again, allowing for a smooth and respectful experience for all attendees.
An Exclusive Gathering for Industry Leaders
More than 600 business leaders, municipal, provincial, and national authorities, and key industry representatives will convene at this prestigious event. Beyond celebration, the gathering serves as a strategic forum for discussing the future of the wine industry and addressing its challenges.
During this event, Bodegas de Argentina (BdA), the leading national wine industry chamber, will highlight its key initiatives across its network of over 250 associated companies. The agenda includes discussions on sustainability, agronomy, wine tourism, responsible consumption, occupational safety, communication strategies, small business support, domestic market dynamics, and international trade.
The History of the Agasajo de Bodegas de Argentina
The origins of this traditional corporate lunch trace back to 1936, alongside the inaugural National Grape Harvest Festival. At that time, members of the Mendoza Winemakers’ Center (Centro de Bodegueros de Mendoza) organized the first gathering at Bodega Escorihuela, attended by then-President of Argentina, Agustín Pedro Justo.
Over the years, the event was known as the “Almuerzo de las Fuerzas Vivas” (Lunch of the Living Forces) and, at times, as the “Banquete de la Vendimia” (Harvest Banquet). It provided a platform for discussions on Mendoza’s economic landscape, attracting political leaders, business executives, and special guests. The president of the Winemakers’ Center often spoke on behalf of multiple industries beyond winemaking, coining the term “Living Forces” to emphasize the event’s impact on the province’s development.
Evolution and Future Projections
By the early 1980s, the Mendoza Winemakers’ Center had solidified its role within the industry, leading to the transformation of the traditional “Almuerzo de las Fuerzas Vivas” into the “Almuerzo del Centro de Bodegueros de Mendoza” or “Almuerzo de la Vitivinicultura” (Viticulture Lunch).
As years passed, Bodegas de Argentina took over the organization of the iconic Vendimia Saturday gathering, continuing the legacy of the Winemakers’ Center. Today, the institution represents over 250 wineries and suppliers spread across Argentina’s 19 wine-producing provinces.
More Than an Event: A Key Promotional Platform for Argentine Wine
Currently, the Agasajo de Bodegas de Argentina is more than just a corporate, political, and social gathering; it has become a crucial platform for promoting Argentina’s viticulture industry. Its importance is reflected in the presence of key figures from the wine sector, government, and business, as well as extensive coverage by local, national, and international media.
The 2025 edition of this renowned event will be held on Saturday, March 8, at 12:30 PM, reaffirming its role as a strategic meeting point for the industry and a must-attend occasion for all those involved in the world of wine.