Lovers of wine are in for a treat in August when the Wine Expo, which first debuted in 2019, returns for a second edition beginning August 20 to 21.
The event organised by Vivo Global will take place at the Radisson Blu in Westlands from midday to 7 PM on both days.
Speaking about this year’s event, Meera Karia, Director of Business Development at Viva Global, says they’re excited to create a unique space for wine lovers.
“We’re excited to return after our first successful Expo in 2019. This year’s edition is more comprehensive and reflective of where Kenya’s wine scene is headed,” she said. “We are creating a space not only to taste but to learn, network and celebrate an evolving culture that has emerged around wine in Kenya. It’s also a signal that we’re back after Covid, stronger and more resilient.”
Kenya’s wine market has witnessed dynamic shifts in recent years. Following a pandemic-induced slowdown in nightlife and hospitality, the retail and home consumption of wine grew exponentially. Millennial and Gen Z consumers, particularly women aged 23–28, are driving demand for sweeter wines, experiences that reflect modern lifestyle trends.
Cities are key growth areas—fueled by restaurant culture, event tourism and a growing appetite for international cuisine. However, the industry continues to face challenges, including heavy taxation, seasonality in tourism and parallel imports which threaten quality control.
“There’s a wave of younger consumers who love to associate with wine—not just for the drink but for the culture, the pairing and the experience,” Ms Karia says of their young target market.
Participants will enjoy a variety of curated experiences, including themed tasting sessions like “The Rosé Affair,” which explores the nuances of rosé wines, guided walk-through tastings, exclusive WSET (Wines & Spirits Education Trust) tasting classes and indulgent cheese and wine pairing sessions in collaboration with wine partners.
Tickets are currently on sale.
