Festa do Vinho 2016 in Catas Altas, MG

16th Festa do Vinho

From May 13 to 15, 2016, the town of Catas Altas, in the Serra do Caraça, held the 16th edition of the Festa do Vinho (Wine Festival), one of the most traditional events in the region. With the theme "Degustando sabor e cultura ao pé da serra" (Tasting flavor and culture at the foot of the mountains), the celebration brought together food, music and tradition, reaffirming the role of jabuticaba wine as a cultural symbol and a cherished heritage of the town.

Organized by the Catas Altas town council with the support of Aprovart, the festival turned Praça Monsenhor Mendes into a true stage for culture, art and togetherness, bringing residents and visitors together in a stunning setting at the foot of the Serra do Caraça.

Tradition, Identity and History

The Catas Altas Festa do Vinho is more than an event: it is a celebration of the roots and collective memory of the people of Catas Altas. Since the 19th century, growing jabuticaba trees and making artisanal wine have been part of local life, linking past and present.

The 2016 edition kept this tradition alive, highlighting the importance of the drink as cultural heritage and as a driver of economic development for small producers and local entrepreneurs.

At the same time, the event reaffirmed the tourist calling of Catas Altas, which is becoming a leading destination for cultural and food tourism, combining lush nature, historic architecture and Minas Gerais hospitality.

Tasting Culture at the Foot of the Mountains

The theme "Tasting flavor and culture at the foot of the mountains" perfectly summed up the spirit of the 16th edition. More than a party, the event was a complete sensory experience in which visitors could taste artisanal wines, learn about local traditions and enjoy cultural performances.

Visitors had the chance to savor authentic jabuticaba wine made in Catas Altas, known for its characteristic aroma and sweetish flavor, and to try traditional dishes that paired with it.

The natural setting of the Serra do Caraça, with its mountains and colonial churches, was the backdrop for the celebrations, creating a unique, unforgettable atmosphere — a true invitation to contemplate and toast to life.

Culture and Community Celebrate

The 2016 edition kept the pillars that have made the Festa do Vinho one of the state's main cultural events: live music, artistic performances, local exhibitors and food activities.

Praça Monsenhor Mendes became a meeting point between generations, where whole families celebrated together. The involvement of regional artists and the work of Aprovart's member producers ensured an authentic event, made with the dedication and care typical of Catas Altas.

Every glass served was a symbol of cultural resilience — a toast to the collective effort to keep alive a tradition that spans centuries.

Natural Beauty and Minas Gerais Hospitality

The landscape of Catas Altas, framed by the Serra do Caraça, was the ideal setting for another Festa do Vinho. The contrast between the green mountains, the white churches and the ruby of the wines delighted residents and tourists alike.

Visitors were welcomed with typical Minas Gerais hospitality, finding in the town not just an event but a complete experience. Hotels, restaurants and cultural venues prepared to receive the public with comfort and friendliness, strengthening local tourism and boosting the regional economy.

Once again, the festival showed that the real charm of Catas Altas lies in its people, its wine and its ability to turn tradition into celebration.

Closing and Cultural Legacy

At the end of the three days, the prevailing feeling was one of gratitude and pride. The 16th Catas Altas Festa do Vinho established itself as a meeting of flavors, memories and experiences that unites the community and delights visitors.

With the theme "Tasting flavor and culture at the foot of the mountains", the 2016 edition reinforced the town's cultural identity and reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the intangible heritage that jabuticaba wine represents.

More than a festival, the Festa do Vinho is a tribute to life, nature and collective work — a toast that spans generations and continues to inspire the future of Catas Altas.