Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/833814
{ SOMMjournal.com } 49 "NO ONE GOES TO VINITALY ANYMORE because it's too crowded." So say some in the wine community who have not been to the Verona trade fair lately. Okay, it's crowded. That's because wine professionals travel from more than 140 countries to taste wines presented by more than 4,000 producers. They make the trek because the gathering is about more than just tasting wines. It's a place to gain insights into new trends and move you along that never-ending path of understanding the wines of Italy. Most importantly, Vinitaly is a time to establish and build relationships that can last a lifetime. The wine experience at Vinitaly has changed in the past few years. It's more orga - nized and no longer open to the public. Starting on Sunday and ending Wednesday, there are only four exhibit days instead of five, although there are some pre-events on Saturday. And while the app could use some improvements, the lectures and special tastings are better than ever. To beat the crowds and make the most of your trip to Vinitaly does take some preparation. The reward for your efforts will be to sit down with some great wine producers, taste their wines and know their stories and insights. Getting There Making the most of the journey to Vinitaly must start months in advance. Prices spike for hotel rooms and just about everything else during Vinitaly. The sooner you book your room and your flight the better deal you're going to get. That means you have to commit to going to this event months in advance. Yes, you're busy and things don't run as smoothly at your business when you're not there. But this experience will expand your knowledge as a wine professional and you'll gain valuable contacts in the wine community. Getting to Verona requires some decision making. Flying into Milan is usually the least expensive way to get to Italy. But the train ride can add another $40 each way to the cost, and hours of travel time. Most often it's best to book your flight destination into the Verona Airport. A free shuttle bus runs from the airport directly to the Vinitaly grounds, but planning to go to the tasting from the airport and work all day is a mistake. Unless you've already adjusted to the time zone, your body will know it's the middle of the night and will punish you for this rookie move. Get to Verona at least the day before the fair starts, acclimate yourself and start fresh on the first day. Wear comfortable shoes. A VETERAN TELLS HOW TO NAVIGATE THE FAIR—AND WHY IT'S WORTH IT story and photos by Carl Corsi The trade fair grounds are huge. The buildings are enormous. Even those familiar with the layout can get disoriented. The best producers fill their appointments months in advance. Carl Corsi has a long career in the Bay Area as a sommelier and imported wine sales specialist. Currently he's Sales Media Manager and Technology Training Manager for Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits.