The Regional Institute of Wine and Oil (IRVO) stands as a key entity in the promotion and development of viticulture and olive growing in Sicily. Since its foundation in 1950, this public body has worked tirelessly to protect, evolve, and promote the region’s wine and olive oil production, establishing Sicily as a benchmark in the wine tourism sector.

Its mission? To support the island’s producers

Established in Palermo, the IRVO was born with the mission of serving Sicilian viticulture, covering all stages of production, from vine planting to the promotion of the final product. Over time, it expanded its scope to also include olive growing, taking on responsibilities in the enhancement, promotion, and certification of olive oil and table olives produced and packaged in Sicily.

The history of the IRVO is intrinsically linked to Sicily’s rich agricultural tradition, an island where the culture of wine and olive oil dates back millennia. Through its offices in Palermo, Alcamo, Marsala, and Milazzo, and its experimental winery “G. Dalmasso” in Marsala, the institute has played a fundamental role in researching and developing innovative agricultural practices, always respecting local traditions.

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A wide range of wine tourism offerings

Sicily, with its diversity of landscapes and microclimates, offers a wide range of wine tourism experiences that the IRVO actively promotes. The island’s wine routes allow visitors to immerse themselves in the local winemaking culture, offering activities such as:

• Guided tours of vineyards and wineries: tourists can explore the vineyards, learn about cultivation and production techniques, and visit the wineries where world-renowned wines are made.
• Tastings and pairings: wine tastings are organised, accompanied by local gastronomic products, allowing visitors to appreciate the harmony between the flavours of Sicilian land.
• Cultural and educational events: participation in educational harvests, workshops, and festivals that celebrate the region’s winemaking and olive-growing heritage.

These activities are designed to satisfy various visitor profiles, from enthusiasts to experts, offering a complete immersion in Sicilian culture and tradition.

Research to maintain quality

The IRVO is distinguished by its focus on applied research and innovation. Over the years, it has developed viticultural models and oenological protocols that have been successfully transferred to local companies, improving the competitiveness of Sicilian products in national and international markets.

Additionally, the institute plays a crucial role in the certification and control of productions with denomination of origin, guaranteeing the authenticity and quality of Sicilian wines and olive oils. A significant milestone was the implementation of state passwords for DOC Sicilia wines, a system managed by the IRVO that ensures the traceability and authenticity of each bottle, protecting both producers and consumers.

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The commitment to sustainability is also evident in the institute’s initiatives, promoting responsible and environmentally friendly agricultural practices, aligned with global trends towards more ecological production.

The participation of the Regional Institute of Wine and Oil in the Feria de Valladolid represents a unique opportunity for professionals and wine tourism enthusiasts to discover the richness and diversity of Sicily’s wine and olive oil offerings. Their dedication to quality, innovation, and the preservation of traditions positions the IRVO as a benchmark in the sector. Interested parties are invited to visit their stand at the fair to obtain detailed information and plan an unforgettable wine tourism experience in Sicily.