The fifth edition of the Wine Extravaganza, hosted by Diplomat Magazine in collaboration with the Leonardo Royal Hotel in The Hague, brought together guests to experience a unique selection of international wines on Monday, October 28, 2024. This annual event, which has become a highlight in the diplomatic and wine communities, served as an important platform to showcase the richness and diversity of wines from across the globe.
Since its inception in 2017, the Wine Extravaganza has established itself as a significant event for commercial and cultural exchange through wine, pausing only for a two-year period due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Over 200 guests attended this year, including diplomats, sommeliers, journalists, gastronomic experts, and special invitees, exploring an extraordinary selection of wines from Argentina, Australia, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador, Greece, the Dominican Republic, and Uruguay—primarily representatives of the New World wine industry.
In her welcoming remarks, Dr. Mayelinne De Lara, Publisher of Diplomat Magazine, emphasized the significance of this event in fostering cultural connections:
“It is truly an honor for us to welcome you to the Diplomats Wine Extravaganza. Today, we are here to celebrate the rich diversity of wine and spirits from ten countries. This event serves as a remarkable platform to show the support of embassies to their wine and spirits industry in the Netherlands.”
To enhance the ambiance, the organizers arranged a live jazz performance that entertained guests throughout the evening, adding a sophisticated touch to the four-hour event. As attendees mingled, they explored an impressive array of wines and paired delicacies, diving into a world of flavors and aromas.
Each ambassador from the participating countries took the opportunity to speak briefly, offering insights into the unique qualities of their nation’s wines. These presentations underscored the cultural significance of wine, bringing to light the stories and traditions behind each bottle.
Dr. Greg French, Australian Ambassador, noted:
“One contribution to global viticulture was Australia’s role as a refuge for grape varieties that were threatened in Europe and other parts of the world in the late nineteenth century. Thanks to our strict quarantine rules, much of Australia remained unaffected by the devastating phylloxera parasite that swept through France and other parts of Europe. This means that Australia is home to some of the oldest continuously producing vines in the world, some over 180 years old, dating back to the 1840s.”
A notable highlight was the participation of the Embassy of Uruguay, which collaborated with Arjan Kiel, owner of La Bodega Vinos, an Amsterdam-based store specializing in Uruguayan and Peruvian wines. La Bodega Vinos showcased a selection from Antigua Bodega Stagnari, featuring wines from the Pedregal line, including Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tannat Rosé, Tannat Roble, Tannat Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon, Cuesta de Grava Tannat, and Bella Donna Marselan. Guests enjoyed traditional Uruguayan empanadas, adding an authentic culinary touch to Uruguay’s presentation.
Dayana Perez Fernandez, the Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of the Dominican Republic presented Ron Barceló, a rum brand established in the 1930s under the name Barceló & Co. She noted:
“The brand quickly grew in popularity, becoming one of the largest in the Dominican Republic and is now exported worldwide to more than 20 countries. It’s a light and fragrant rum, with an unmatched flavor, making it especially appealing to consumers. It’s the result of an elaborate process, and you can enjoy it on its own, over ice cubes, or mixed in cocktails. We invite you to stop by our table to try this delicious rum and talk to Mr. Jos Huffmeijer, who is the Ambassador of Ron Barceló in the Netherlands.”
H.E. Mr. Fernando Simas Magalhães, Ambassador of Brazil, proudly introduced sparkling wines from Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil’s wine heartland:
“I am proud to introduce the sparkling wines from Rio Grande do Sul, a province at the heart of Brazil’s wine production. For instance, this region is home to Altos de Pinto Bandeira, the first Denomination of Origin (D.O.) in the New World exclusively dedicated to sparkling wines. I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to Ms. Claudia Silva Brandenberg from Brazilian Wine House and Ms. Richel Klarenbeek from The New Bunch, whose efforts in bringing Brazilian wines to the Netherlands have been invaluable.”
For some countries, the Wine Extravaganza marked a valuable introduction to the Dutch market, sparking potential opportunities for expansion into Europe. Dr. De Lara shared her pride in the event’s role in advancing global wine culture:
“Diplomats Wine Extravaganza has proven to be an instrumental force in advancing the wine industry of numerous countries. This event helps position participating countries on the international wine scene, promoting their cultural identity and the quality of their products to a global audience.”
The success of the Wine Extravaganza 2024 once again highlighted the powerful role of wine in diplomacy, reinforcing connections across continents.
Cheers to an unforgettable night of taste, tradition, and international friendship—until the next edition!
