Malta appoints first wine ambassador

The mediterranean archipelago’s tourism authority has appointed its first ever wine ambassador to “establish Malta and Gozo on the international wine scene”.

The Malta Tourism Association (MTA) has announced the appointment of Joséf Bonello as the first ambassador for the promotion of the wines of Malta and Gozo.

Malta is an archipelago in the central Mediterranean between Sicily and the North African coast. Ambassador Bonello will also promote wines produced on the island of Gozo, one of 21 that make up the Maltese archipelago.

Malta has plantings of international grape varieties including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Grenache, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Carignan, Chenin Blanc and Moscato, as well as some indigenous varieties, Gellewza and Ghirghentina.

MTA CEO Carlo Micallef explained that Malta successfully achieved “the goals of the recovery phase for Malta’s tourism industry, with a record tourism performance in 2023”.

Malta’s tourism board is not moving its the second phase of its 2021-2030 tourism strategy, “which calls for the rethinking of the tourism experience that the Islands are to offer to prospective visitors”, he said.

“The wine and gastronomy segment are a strong motivator of quality tourism that seeks a memorable experience, sustainable tourism operations and is also willing to spend more for the right product.

“I strongly believe that Josef’s extensive knowledge and experience in the wine industry will help us develop this tourism product in cooperation with Malta and Gozo’s wine industry. Our objective is to provide our guests with an unforgettable experience and at the same time establish Malta and Gozo on the international wine scene.”

Bonello has worked in Malta’s wine scene for over 30 years. In his new role, the Maltese wine ambassador will aim to raise the profile and knowledge of Maltese wines, both locally and internationally.