A Taste of Italy: Gambero Rosso Returns to Sydney Amid Historic Trade Breakthrough
ST Wine & Food Guide article posted Wednesday,2026
SYDNEY – The historic sandstone halls of Watersedge at Campbell’s Stores were filled with the aroma of Sangiovese and Nebbiolo yesterday, as the Gambero Rosso “Top Italian Wines Roadshow” made its much-anticipated return to the Sydney waterfront.
The exclusive trade-only event, held on Wednesday, May 13, showcased the pinnacle of Italian viticulture, featuring 45 prestigious wineries and over 170 premium labels. For the hundreds of sommeliers, importers, and restaurateurs in attendance, the day offered more than just a world-class tasting; it served as a celebratory toast to a looming shift in the Australian wine market.
A New Era for Italian Imports
The timing of the roadshow couldn’t be more poignant. Following the official conclusion of negotiations for the Australia-European Union Free Trade Agreement (A-EU FTA) in late March, the industry is bracing for a significant drop in the cost of importing European goods.
Under the new agreement, tariffs on Italian wine—currently sitting at 5%—are set to be eliminated. Furthermore, the industry is closely watching the restructuring of excise duties and administrative hurdles. Historically, high domestic excise and complex customs requirements have acted as a barrier for smaller, boutique Italian producers. The trade deal promises:
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Zero-tariff treatment on wine entering Australia from the EU.
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Simplified certification and electronic documentation, reducing “red tape” costs for importers.
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Enhanced protection for Geographical Indications (GIs), ensuring the authenticity of iconic Italian regions.
Masterclasses and “Tre Bicchieri” Quality
The event featured three sold-out masterclasses led by Giuseppe Carrus, Editor of the renowned Vini d’Italia guide. Carrus guided attendees through the nuances of Italy’s diverse terroir, from the volcanic soils of Sicily to the alpine breezes of Alto Adige.
“Events like this are the lifeblood of our industry,” said one local Sydney importer. “With the trade agreement coming into force, the accessibility of these high-end wines will improve. We aren’t just looking at lower prices, but a wider variety of indigenous Italian grapes finally becoming commercially viable for the Australian table.”
Looking Ahead
While the official “entry into force” of the trade deal is subject to final parliamentary ratifications, the sentiment at Campbell’s Cove was one of overwhelming optimism. As the sun set over the Sydney Opera House, the message from Gambero Rosso was clear: the bridge between Italian vineyards and Australian glasses has never been stronger—or more affordable.
For the Australian hospitality sector, the combination of world-class events and favorable trade policy signals a “renaissance” for Italian wine in the year ahead.
