The Institute of Masters of Wine (IMW) International Symposium is regarded as the marquee event in the global wine calendar. Launched in Oxford in 1982 and last hosted in Wiesbaden, Germany in 2023, the 11th International Symposium will see the event travel to Adelaide, South Australia. The host of the 2027 event is the South Australian Government with support from Wine Australia.
The event is organised by the Institute of Masters of Wine. The IMW’s mission is to foster excellence, interaction and learning across all sectors of the global wine community. As well as running the MW study programme, the IMW programme of worldwide events offers unparalleled opportunities to taste and learn.
These tastings and seminars, including the international symposium, are open for anyone to attend – you don’t have to be a Master of Wine to join in.
As the IMW’s flagship event, the symposium programme seeks to take a critical look at the world of wine and its future. There will be world-class tastings, thought-provoking presentations and controversial debate, as well as exciting themed lunches and dinners organised by our sponsors and hosts.
Open to anyone to attend, the symposium offers outstanding networking opportunities and will run over four stimulating days from 15 to 18 April 2027.
The symposium will open with a Welcome to Country in Kaurna language, acknowledging the traditional owners of the land. The rest of the day comprises a thoughtful session questioning decolonisation of the wine industry and the importance of inclusion, alongside an Australian trade tasting to taste wines and meet winemakers from across Australia before the opening dinner at the National Wine Centre.
Old vines is a major theme of day 2 with a plenary session discussing some of the latest evidence-based research into old vines and their value, followed by a very special tasting where four winemakers have created bespoke pairs of wines where the only variable is vine age. The MW winemakers tasting is always a symposium highlight, as is the special winery dinners out in region.
Day 3 will encourage delegates to challenge some of the existing paradigms in the wine industry. We will debate how wine can connect in a changing world, explore how wines age under cork and screwcap in a masterclass, consider gene editing in grape vines and question how to make great wine in a changing climate. The day will finish with a spectacular gala dinner, hosted by the South Australian government.
The final day will start with a session exploring a big question - does wine matter? Following this will be a superlative masterclass of some of the world’s greatest wines which will consider the value of wine, the impact of the secondary market and how important these benchmarks are to the industry today. Felicity Carter will then present the closing keynote, leading into the final lunch.
Beyond the official programme, delegates have the opportunity to take part in a selection of exclusive trips across Australia. Hosted directly by the regional bodies of these iconic wine regions this is your chance to enhance your visit to Australia before and after the official symposium programme. You can explore the options below.
Spaces are limited so don’t miss out. If you already have a ticket for the symposium and want add a trip you can do so via the ‘manage my booking’ page. Trips are offered at an additional fee to the symposium registration. Prices can be found on the registration page.
Contact events@mastersofwine.org if you have any questions about trip bookings.
The Great Southern wine region of Western Australia is widely celebrated as producing some of Australia’s finest cool climate wines.
We are inviting a select number of symposium guests to explore the Great Southern region immediately before the Adelaide 2027 symposium in a comprehensive and immersive industry-led program of activities. Introducing you to the Great Southern of Western Australia and the 5 sub-regions of Albany, Denmark, Frankland River, Mt Barker and Porongurup. Providing the opportunity to participate in a range of curated producer tastings, and regional masterclasses. Bringing you behind the scenes to fully explore the viticulture, winemaking and unique ancient terroirs of the Great Southern.
The Margaret River Region is a living and breathing embodiment of ancient geography and Wadandi song lines. Natural beauty, abundance of space, fine wine and fresh coastal air make a holiday here the remedy to modern life. Today we walk softly on Wadandi Boodja and practice living and travelling through the region in a sustainable way, to ensure the natural environment is preserved and protected.
Barossa is a region of layered stories, expressive wines and deep roots. Few regions in the world produce both cool and warm climate wines side by side, and this diversity is part of what makes Barossa unique. The Barossa wine community invite you to explore the themes that shape our identity: Barossa Grounds, Old Vines, Generations, and Flavours. Taste how Shiraz expresses place and maker. Discover how vines over a century old still thrive, and how our culture continues to evolve. From Eden Valley’s quiet rise to the power of the Barossa Valley floor, meet the people who grow, make and share Barossa with the world.
Discover the heart and soul of Australian Cabernet country with an immersive three-day journey through Coonawarra, one of the Australia’s most distinguished wine regions. Famed for its vivid terra rossa soils, cool maritime climate, and over a century of winemaking heritage, Coonawarra produces wines of extraordinary elegance, structure and longevity. Experience first-hand the region’s geology, terroir and the people who bring its wines to life. Through a blend of guided tastings, vineyard visits, and cultural experiences, discover how soil, climate, and community combine to produce wines of remarkable elegance, balance and longevity.
The Hunter Valley occupies a distinctive place in the global wine conversation. As Australia’s oldest continuous wine region, its vineyards reflect nearly two centuries of viticultural knowledge, adaptation and refinement.
Internationally recognised for its expression of Semillon, the Hunter Valley produces a style found nowhere else in the world. Alongside this sits Hunter Valley Shiraz and increasingly, Chardonnay which has emerged as a compelling part of the region’s story.
Delegates will explore historic vineyards, meet visionary producers and experience innovative approaches that define the region's current wine styles, all set among some of the country's most storied and beautiful vineyard landscapes.
Langhorne Creek is a dynamic habitat where flowing rivers and creeks reach into vital lake systems and the pristine Southern Ocean. Join us for an unforgettable three-day wine escape in the heart of South Australia’s Langhorne Creek wine region. Surrounded by rolling vineyards and charming cellar doors, you’ll indulge in expertly curated tastings and meet passionate winemakers. The itinerary blends relaxed country hospitality with premium wine experiences, including exclusive vineyard tours, long-table lunches, and stunning scenery. This immersive trip promises a perfect balance of flavour, discovery, and connection.
The Adelaide Hills is the premier cool climate wine region of South Australia. The wine producers and grape growers of the Adelaide Hills look forward to welcoming you to a visit across the multi-facets of this winegrowing gem hovering above the Adelaide CBD. Our guests will spend a full day immersed in Chardonnay, our regional signature followed by a second day exploring the diverse Hills landscape of legacy and emerging varietals.
Discover McLaren Vale, one of Australia’s oldest and most celebrated wine regions. Shaped by 185 years of winegrowing, a pristine coastline and Mediterranean climate, with one of the most complex geological make-ups of any wine region in the world, McLaren Vale has an excitingly diverse range of sub-regions and microclimates to uncover.
This unforgettable trip will take guests from the hills to the ocean, all while enjoying world-class wines made from Grenache, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and a pioneering range of varieties well-suited to McLaren Vale’s climate and fresh coastal cuisine.
When visiting Tasmania, you visit Australia’s ‘coolest’ wine region. This program has been created to share some exceptional wine with you, a few secrets, a few stories and also showcase some of Tasmania’s other highlights – our incredible wildlife, our food scene and a museum like none other on the planet. Yes, that’s all here in this little island on the edge of the world. Tassie is different; we might be small, but we’re big on the inside and love sharing our produce, wine and stories with friends.
The 11th international symposium will take place in Adelaide, Australia.
Adelaide, is a gateway to 18 distinctive, world-renowned wine regions and more than 200 cellar doors within an hour’s drive of the city. Situated in South Australia, Adelaide is known as the wine capital of Australia. Boasting an international airport only 7km from the city centre and on the doorstep to the Clare Valley, McLaren Vale, Barossa Valley, Adelaide Hills, Eden Valley and Langhorne Creek.
The Adelaide Convention Centre is our primary venue, centrally located in the heart of Adelaide and surrounded by many hotel options.
We’ve negotiated accommodation discounts and secured a limited number of reduced-rate hotel rooms to make your trip to Adelaide cost affordable. Through the travel experts at Accommodation Link, rooms at the group rate are limited and available on a first come, first-served basis.
These reduced contracted rates will expire 30 days prior to the event - Book early for best selection and price.
Please always read the hotels’ policies prior to finalising any bookings.
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Adelaide’s size, grid design and proximity to the airport makes for more convenient and more enjoyable events. Adelaide Airport is a quick 15-minute drive into from city centre, providing you with an easy travel experience.
Key Transportation Details:
Address:
Adelaide Convention Centre, North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia
Experience a warm welcome, a calm pace and all the cosmopolitan conveniences. With the airport, accommodation and attractions all within easy reach, it’s easy to see why Adelaide is Australia’s convention city.
Before attending, we recommend exploring the Adelaide Convention Centre virtual map to help you familiarise yourself with the venue layout, entrances, and key areas. It’s a useful way to plan your visit in advance and make the most of your time at the symposium.
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The symposium is organised by the Institute of Masters of Wine (IMW). The majority of the IMW team is based in at the IMW HQ in London. You can find out more about the IMW by visiting www.mastersofwine.org
+44 (0) 207 383 9130
+44 (0) 207 383 9136
Wine Australia empowers the success of the Australian wine sector through Research, Innovation and Adoption to enhance global competitiveness and meet the challenges of tomorrow, today; Market Development to increase the demand and premium paid for Australian wine; and Regulatory Services to safeguard Australian wine’s integrity and uphold the sector’s reputation.
Wine Australia is funded by the sector, for the sector, through grapegrower, winemaker and exporter levies and user-pays charges, with matching funds from the Australian Government for research and innovation. Established under the Wine Australia Act 2013, it is a Commonwealth Government statutory authority.
Wine Australia has lots of tools, resources and materials freely available to support wine businesses, wine professionals and students. Whatever your role, there is everything you need to explore, teach, and stay up to date with Australian wine.
Australianwine.com: Explore Australian wine through winemaker stories, regional insights and wine guides, and find new wines for your portfolio in the Expo, a virtual exhibition showcasing export-ready Australian wineries and wines. Visit the Australian Wine trade calendar to sign up for events, meet wineries and distributors, and catch up with the Wine Australia team.
Australian Wine Discovered: A free-to-use educational platform that provides information on key regions, grape varieties and topics such as old vines and sparkling wine. With comprehensive guides, editable presentations, images, quizzes, maps and videos, it is a valuable resource for training, event preparation, research or personal studies.
Market Insights: Interactive and comprehensive data and insights on Australian wine. Tools include the Wine Geographical Indications (GIs) Dashboard, Export Dashboard and National Vintage Survey Dashboard.
Research and Innovation: Find out about current research and browse reports from completed projects, from minimising the impact of pests and diseases to reducing carbon emissions.
Sustainable Winegrowing Australia: The national sustainability programme for grapegrowers and winemakers, measuring, reporting and encouraging best practices in vineyards and wineries.
The Austrian Wine Marketing Board (Austrian Wine), based in Vienna, is a national service body for the Austrian wine industry. It was founded in 1986 with the aim of strategically supporting, coordinating and maintaining quality and sales. The company’s goal is to maintain the high share of Austrian wine on the domestic market. At the same time, it is also aiming to grow wine exports with a focus on value creation.
The IMW is a membership organisation with an exceptional international reputation. For more than 70 years, its members – the Masters of Wine (MWs) – have been at the forefront of leadership and expertise in the world of wine. The IMW’s mission is to foster excellence, interaction and learning across all sectors of the global wine community. MWs prove their comprehensive understanding of wine by passing the MW exam, recognised worldwide for its rigour and exacting standards. In addition to passing the exam, members must sign the code of conduct before they are entitled to use the initials MW. This requires them to uphold the highest standards of commercial conduct within the industry. Today, there are 418 Masters of Wine based in 30 countries. The membership encompasses winemakers, sommeliers, buyers, journalists, shippers, consultants, viticulturalists, academics, educators and more. There are 320 students from 46 countries in the 2025-26 MW study programme. The IMW works with 39 supporters and four research and industry associates, who help promote the IMW’s mission. The five principal supporters are Austrian Wine, AXA Millésimes, Champagne Bollinger, Constellation Brands and VSPT Wine Group.
For more information visit: https://www.mastersofwine.org/
The Government of South Australia provides a range of initiatives and programs delivered domestically and internationally to support the state’s wine sector. Co-designed in partnership with industry, the initiatives and programs focus on delivering strong commercial outcomes and build global recognition for South Australia.
Exporters are provided with opportunities to connect directly with international buyers, distributors and influencers to drive category and brand awareness, secure new trade relationships and showcase South Australia’s premium wine credentials to the world.
Internationally, importers, distributors and buyers can access support and guidance on doing business with South Australia from the Government of South Australia’s trade and investment offices, located in key markets around the world, including offices in London and Germany, that provide valuable in-market support, insights and connections for businesses seeking opportunities for exports and investment. Activities around food and wine, including masterclasses, tastings and trade training, are designed to build knowledge, appreciation and advocacy, targeting international trade, media and hospitality professionals to equip them with a deeper understanding of South Australia’s premium wine regions and quality credentials. These activities also provide insights internationally, to South Australia and provide opportunities for connections, partnerships and collaboration to take place.
