The night of Stars and Goblets (Calici di Stelle), which this year will take place on 10 August, will celebrate respect for the environment and eco-sustainability and be held in all of the wineries belonging to the Wine Tourism Movement and on the piazzas of the Wine Cities themselves – as the shooting stars of Saint Lawrence illuminate the deep velvet night sky.

The world of wine continues to be one of the environment’s greatest allies by saving energy through renewable sources and recycling its waste products. 

The entire production cycle –from the vineyard to the cantina – is a challenge not only for the winemaker, but also for the entire surrounding area.  It is also a topic which is increasing important to wine lovers as well. 
The 2010 edition of Calici di Stelle is a rich calendar of events of all sorts – from wine tastings to tours of the wineries, from specialised theme menus to historical re-enactments, night-time strolls and urban hikes, live music, exhibits, markets, movies and theatre – all of it in the splendid surroundings of the Wine Tourism Movement member wineries and on the piazzas of the Wine Cities taking part in the initiative.

 
Care for the environment will be demonstrated in both small and large gestures: not only are all of the goblets made of glass (instead of plastic), but the corks will also be the recycled (for use in bio-construction) and the wine bottles themselves are also fine examples - many producers now prefer them of lightweight glass and with labels printed on recycled paper.  The wine is also made in eco-friendly style with the use of renewable energy sources like the sun, water and biomasses, thanks also to their abundance in the countryside.

Between one sip of fine wine and another, an expert guide from the Italian Stargazers Union will lead us in our observation of the stars.  In many piazzas and in the cantinas, free breathalysers with the distinctive Stars and Goblets logo will be handed out to promote responsible drinking habits… and to let you make sure your alcohol level is within the safety range before you get in your car to head home.

The initiative was organised with the collaboration and participation of the National Wine Cities Association.

Info: www.movimentoturismovino.it
www.cittadelvino.it