Vins Extrêmes 2025: Heroic Viticulture Returns to the Forte di Bard

Celebrating the world’s most extraordinary mountain, island, and terraced wines in a fortress rich with history

BARD – On November 22–23, 2025, the monumental Forte di Bard in the Aosta Valley will once again host Vins Extrêmes, the international showcase dedicated to wines born in the world’s most dramatic and challenging vineyard landscapes. Now in its fourth edition, the event celebrates the men and women who cultivate vines on steep mountain slopes, narrow terraces, remote islands, and other extreme environments—places where winemaking requires perseverance, innovation, and a profound connection to the land.

A Fortress Steeped in History

Standing at the narrowest point of the Aosta Valley, the Forte di Bard is one of the most impressive examples of early 19th-century military engineering in the Alps. Although the site has been used for defensive purposes since at least the 6th century, the fortress as it appears today was rebuilt between 1830 and 1838 by the House of Savoy after Napoleon’s army famously captured and dismantled the earlier structure in 1800 during the Second Italian Campaign.

The modern fort is composed of multiple levels carved into the rock, with panoramic views dominating the valley floor. Abandoned in the late 20th century, it underwent a major restoration and reopened in 2006 as a cultural hub. Today the Forte di Bard is home to museums, exhibitions, concerts, and major international events. Its monumental architecture and symbolic connection to mountain culture make it the perfect stage for a celebration of heroic viticulture.

A Meeting Point for the World of Heroic Winegrowing

More than 50 wineries from across 11 Italian regions—19 of which from the Aosta Valley—will be present, alongside producers from Albania, Germany, and Switzerland. Adding to the international flair, five guest regions known for their own heroic viticulture traditions will participate, including Lavaux in Switzerland, Pantelleria in Italy, Galicia’s Lugo province, Abruzzo, and France’s Côte Vermeille.

Visitors will be able to taste these unique wines throughout the weekend, with tasting tables open from morning until late afternoon. It’s an opportunity to explore rare labels that reflect the rugged landscapes they come from.

Masterclasses, Talks, and Encounters

Beyond the tastings, Vins Extrêmes 2025 offers a rich program designed for both professionals and passionate wine lovers. Masterclasses led by sommeliers and experts will explore wines from terraced regions, island vineyards, and high-altitude environments. The event also includes guided tastings, thematic talks, and discussions on issues such as biodiversity, indigenous grape varieties, and the impact of climate change on mountain winegrowing.

Sunday will feature a wine talk on evolving consumer trends, followed by themed tastings led by renowned winemakers and educators. A roundtable on the future of mountain agriculture and its role in preserving biodiversity will bring together institutional figures and specialists.

Spotlight on the Mondial des Vins Extrêmes

One of the highlights of the weekend is the awards ceremony for the Mondial des Vins Extrêmes, the world’s only international wine competition exclusively dedicated to heroic wines. Throughout the fair, visitors will be able to taste all the winning labels at a dedicated station, gaining insight into the craftsmanship and dedication of the participating winemakers.

Voices of the Territory

The spirit of Vins Extrêmes is amplified by the voices of those who live and work closest to the land. Their words underscore the cultural, economic, and environmental importance of heroic viticulture:

Nicola Abbrescia, President of CERVIM:
“Vins Extrêmes is much more than an exhibition. It is a place for dialogue where wineries, institutions, and experts shape a shared vision. Our goal is to give voice to producers who, even when working on a small scale, play a decisive role in protecting biodiversity, landscapes, and the wine culture of mountains and islands.”

Marco Carrel, Regional Councillor for Agriculture and Natural Resources of the Valle d’Aosta:
“Mountain viticulture and agriculture must be protected because of their strong link with the territory. Through an event like this, we celebrate the National Agriculture Day and continue reflecting on the most pressing issues affecting the sector.”

Roberto Sapia, President of the Chambre Valdôtaine:
“Vins Extrêmes is a key event for our region’s entrepreneurial community. It is an opportunity for comparison, growth, and exchange, showing how businesses can interpret the territory in a contemporary way while staying true to tradition.”

Ornella Badery, President of the Forte di Bard Association:
“Bringing the excellence of heroic viticulture into the fortress, a place that speaks of the mountains at 360 degrees, is part of our mission. Food and wine perfectly blend with culture and create opportunities for tourism promotion across the region.”