WineOS 2026: Masterclass program as the foundation of wine education in the region

The eleventh edition of the WineOS fair, which will be held January 16 and 17, 2026 in Osijek, once again raises the question of the role of specialized wine events in the development of knowledge, professional competencies and wine tourism in the region. In addition to the exhibition part, WineOS has been systematically developing for years educational segment through masterclass workshops, which over time became an important part of his identity.

In the context of the increasingly pronounced need for continuous education in the wine and hospitality industry, this workshop format goes beyond the classic fair offer and enters the area of ​​professional development, which is one of the reasons for their long-standing presence in the WineOS program.

Masterclass workshops in response to market needs

The WineOS 2026 program includes seven masterclass workshops spread over two daysThe concept is designed to encompass different levels of knowledge and interests of participants - from professionals from the wine and hospitality sector to experienced wine enthusiasts seeking a structured and interpretive approach to wine.

The thematic framework of the workshops covers key global wine regions and styles, with an emphasis on understanding terroir, varietals and stylistic differences, but also on the broader context of the market and consumer trends. This approach responds to the contemporary needs of the wine industry, where knowledge is increasingly seen as a key element of competitiveness.

The role of lecturers in the quality of education

Workshops are led by Darko Lugarić and Mario Meštrović., sommeliers with many years of experience in education and working with wines of different styles and origins. Their approach is based on a combination of theoretical framework and guided tasting, with a focus on interpreting the wine and understanding the context in which it is produced.

This methodology is one of the reasons why masterclass workshops at WineOS attract an audience that is looking for more than just tasting wine, that is, knowledge that can be applied in professional or educational work.

Global topics and regional perspectives

The WineOS 2026 program includes workshops dedicated to established world wine regions such as Champagne, Bordeaux, Burgundy and Piedmont, but also content dealing with regions closer to this part of Europe, such as the Herzegovina wine area.

Such a combination of global and regional themes It allows participants to compare different wine styles, but also to understand how local terroirs can find their place in the wider wine context. Special emphasis is placed on Riesling, which is one of the most complex and highly regarded white varieties in the world.

Broader context: education, destination and wine culture

The long-standing interest in the WineOS masterclass program indicates the need for such formats in the region. Although we cannot speak of direct effects on tourism indicators, it is clear that educational events of this type contribute to the development of wine culture, professional standards and the recognition of the destination among the professional audience.

In this sense, WineOS is positioned as an example of how a trade fair event can gradually build added value through education and professional networking. For participants coming to Osijek in January, masterclass workshops They represent an opportunity to upgrade knowledge and exchange experiences, which is an increasingly important part of professional development in the modern wine sector.