The Institute of Masters of Wine (IMW), in partnership with Wine Australia and the Government of South Australia, has taken the difficult decision to postpone the 11th International Symposium, originally scheduled to take place in Adelaide from 12–15 November 2026. The new dates for the symposium will be 15–18 April 2027.
The announcement follows a further delay to the decision over whether COP31, the United Nations Climate Change Conference, will be hosted in Adelaide, with a conclusion now not expected until at least November this year. Should Adelaide be selected as the host city, the venue and dates would be the same as those originally planned for the symposium, forcing the IMW event to be rescheduled or cancelled.
The IMW acknowledges that the new April 2027 dates are likely to coincide with harvest and vintage in some regions, which presents its own set of challenges. Unfortunately, more suitable dates were not available, but the IMW will collaborate closely with its partners to deliver an outstanding and inclusive event despite these challenges.
Interim IMW Executive Director Sarah Harrison stated: “Postponing a flagship event is never an easy decision. However, our priority is to protect the quality and accessibility of the symposium for our global community. We are grateful for the continued support of our Australian partners and look forward to welcoming the world’s wine professionals to Adelaide in 2027 for what promises to be an exceptional event.”
South Australian Government Minister for Trade and Investment, Joe Szakacs, said: “We’ve been working closely with the IMW to ensure the symposium is memorable for all in attendance. “The new dates provide certainty and allow for proper planning for both organisers and attendees, so that the global wine industry can truly experience one of the best wine-producing states in the world. We look forward to welcoming participants to Adelaide, Australia’s Great Wine Capital.”
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