Shamakhi: The Grape and Wine Festival commenced in Shamakhi on September 13, organized collaboratively by the Shamakhi District Executive Authority, Abgora Restaurant, and the Nasimi Vineyards Complex. The two-day event is taking place in the Meysari village, as reported by APA.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the festival’s opening ceremony was graced by prominent figures including Anar Alakbarov, Assistant to the President of Azerbaijan and Executive Director of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, and Minister of Agriculture Majnun Mammadov, among other officials. Minister Mammadov highlighted the longstanding tradition of viticulture and winemaking in Azerbaijan and the South Caucasus. He pointed out that festivals like this are crucial for preserving traditions and fostering the development of the industry in the country. He shared that Azerbaijan produced 12 million liters of wine last year and expressed optimism for future growth, attributing potential success to such festivals.
Tahir Mammadov, Head of the Shamakhi District Executive Authority, remarked on the transformation of Shamakhi from an agrarian region to a burgeoning hub for agrotourism and other tourism sectors. He expressed gratitude to the President for the developmental initiatives in the district and emphasized the importance of the festival in promoting Shamakhi’s cultural heritage, including its poetry, music, and historical monuments. He also hinted at upcoming projects aimed at enhancing the region’s appeal.
The festival’s inaugural day featured a specially curated show with performances from ‘Retro Band,’ Azerbaijani jazz artist Ulviyya Rahimova, Eurovision winner Nigar Jamal, Cuban singer and choreographer Edglis Hayle, composer Kazim Jan, ‘The Passion Band,’ Humay Aslanova, the ‘Dihaj’ group, ‘Gaga Band,’ DJs Irada and Kamo, and pop singer Dilare Kazimova. The festival seeks to boost local grape and wine production, expand export potential, and present the rich history of viticulture to a broader audience.
Located in the vineyards of ‘Shirvan Wines’ LLC in Meysari, the festival showcases various wine brands. Attendees have the opportunity to taste local and international wines, purchase products at factory prices, participate in master classes, and learn about the stories of different wine houses. The festival grounds also feature restaurant pavilions, art exhibitions with viticulture themes, and a presentation on artificial intelligence by students from the Ministry of Agriculture.
The second day of the festival, September 14, promises an enriched musical experience with performances by young singer Sevanna, saxophonist Teymur Suleymanbeyli with the ‘Suleymanbeyli Group,’ Eurovision stars Elnur Huseynov and Nigar Jamal, Samir Piriyev, the ‘Mexican Band,’ Nura Suri, Humay Aslanova, People’s Artist Tunzale Aghayeva, and DJ Kamo. In addition to concerts and tastings, the event offers games and interactive activities for visitors. Now in its fourth year, the Grape and Wine Festival serves as an essential platform for winemakers to form new business connections and showcase their products to a wide audience.