Festa do Vinho 2010 in Catas Altas, MG

10th Festa do Vinho

From May 14 to 16, 2010, Catas Altas lived another remarkable chapter in its cultural history with the 10th Festa do Vinho (Wine Festival). The event drew more than 30,000 people to Praça Monsenhor Mendes, which became the great meeting point for residents, tourists and lovers of traditional jabuticaba wine.

Organized by the Catas Altas town council, through its Tourism and Culture department, in partnership with Aprovart (Association of Wine Producers and Family Farmers), the 2010 edition stood out for its facilities, the variety of its attractions and its celebration of local culture.

Tradition and History: the Wine of Catas Altas

The history of wine in Catas Altas goes back to the 19th century, when Monsignor Manuel Mendes Pereira de Vasconcelos encouraged residents to plant vines and make wine as an economic alternative after the gold mines were exhausted. This heritage was passed down through generations and became a symbol of the town.

Over the years, jabuticaba wine gained ground and recognition, and is now considered one of the most authentic artisanal products of Minas Gerais. The Festa do Vinho is therefore a celebration of this tradition, which unites faith, art, work and flavor.

The 2010 edition reinforced this legacy, showing the public the importance of artisanal wine as an element of local identity and development.

Program and Big Shows

For three days, Praça Monsenhor Mendes hosted a packed program of concerts, Masses, workshops and cultural activities.

• Friday, May 14: the festival began with Mass at the Mother Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição, followed by the official opening and the sash ceremony for the 2010 Wine Queen and Princess. In the evening, crowds packed the square for the show by Nazi, former lead singer of the band Ira!, and a performance by Alê Magalhães e Banda, who rocked the first night.

• Saturday, May 15: the program began in the afternoon with local performances and voice-and-guitar sets. In the evening, singer Paula Fernandes took the stage and enchanted the audience with her striking voice and a repertoire of sertanejo and romantic hits. Banda Mercado Central closed the night, keeping the party going into the early hours.

• Sunday, May 16: the last day began with Mass, followed by performances by local artists, the Poetry Circuit, circus activities and the eagerly awaited Jabuticaba Wine Contest, which awarded the year's best producers. Singer Leoni closed the festival with hits such as Garotos II and Só Pro Meu Prazer, moving the audience and ending the edition on a high note.

The event also featured the Orquestra Musiart, cultural performances and regional artists, reinforcing the musical diversity and community character of the festival.

Awards and Local Highlights

One of the most eagerly awaited moments was the Jabuticaba Wine Contest, which rewards local producers and celebrates the quality of artisanal wine.

In 2010, producer Zenilda Rosária Alves won first place with a well-balanced wine with a striking aroma. The award symbolized the collective effort of producers who keep alive a tradition handed down for more than a century.

Besides the contest, the festival also showcased the town's bars and restaurants, which offered dishes and snacks paired with local wine.

Culture, Community and Joy

More than a music event, the 2010 Festa do Vinho was a meeting of generations. Children, young people and adults shared moments of joy amid performances, games and tastings.

The event had the support of the Military Police, Emater-MG, Vale, Samarco, Caixa Econômica Federal and other partners, ensuring safety, facilities and comfort for the public.

Catas Altas families welcomed visitors with hospitality, reaffirming the warm spirit that makes the town a distinctive tourist destination in Minas Gerais.

Closing and Legacy of the 10th Edition

With record attendance and praise for its organization, the 10th Catas Altas Festa do Vinho was ranked among the five best festivals in Minas Gerais for quality and facilities, according to the state government.

The 2010 event was a milestone in the town's history, strengthening cultural tourism and celebrating jabuticaba wine as the community's living heritage.

More than a festival, the Festa do Vinho is a toast to the history, faith and work of a people who turned their tradition into celebration — and who keep writing new pages of this success story year after year.