Festa do Vinho 2017 in Catas Altas, MG

17th Festa do Vinho

From May 19 to 21, 2017, the town of Catas Altas, in the heart of the Serra do Caraça, welcomed thousands of visitors to the 17th edition of the Festa do Vinho (Wine Festival). The event, now established as one of the most traditional in Minas Gerais, once again celebrated jabuticaba wine, one of the town's most striking cultural symbols.

With a varied program full of music, food and culture, the 2017 edition honored the history and artisanal production of the wine, preserving a legacy handed down from generation to generation since 1949.

Tradition and the Origins of Jabuticaba Wine

The Catas Altas Festa do Vinho was created more than 17 years ago to value the artisanal production of jabuticaba wine, nationally recognized for its quality and authenticity. The history of the drink goes back to 1949, when Anastásio de Souza began making it in the town as an alternative to grape wine — a practice introduced back in the 19th century.

Since then, the wine tradition has grown stronger and become an essential part of the identity of Catas Altas. The festival is therefore a tribute to this popular knowledge, to the persistence of local producers and to the drink's role in culture and togetherness.

In 2017, the event reaffirmed its commitment to preserving this heritage, highlighting community values and putting the town's name on the tourist and cultural map of Minas Gerais.

Program and Facilities

The 17th Festa do Vinho had a broad program spread over two stages at Praça Monsenhor Mendes, in the historic center of Catas Altas. The public could enjoy music, theater and food at the same time, in an atmosphere of celebration and togetherness.

The event began on May 18 with Senac Móvel workshops for local producers and stallholders, preparing the food offering for the following days.

On Friday (May 19), the official opening included the sash ceremony for the Wine Princess, followed by performances by Marcelo Veronez and the iconic band 14 Bis, who moved the audience with Brazilian music classics. The night ended with a show by Mutantes a Seco, keeping the party going into the early hours.

On Saturday (May 20), the program gathered pace with the Sabores do Morro Fair, open all day with traditional products and local delicacies. The public also took part in open cooking workshops run by Senac and enjoyed performances by Farra Trio, Zé da Guiomar, Jorge Band, Rockbras, Bernardo do Espinhaço and the night's headliner: Vanessa da Mata, who enchanted the crowd with her striking voice and charisma.

Sunday (May 21) was devoted to family, culture and spirituality. The program featured Saxofones Afrolatinos, Aline Abreu, Bob Drumond, the Rockin' Strings Orchestra and Camila Calais, closing the festival in style. There was also the traditional Mass at the Mother Church and the eagerly awaited Best Jabuticaba Wine Awards, held in partnership with Emater.

Flavors, Workshops and the Food Fair

One of the highlights of this edition was the "Sabores do Morro" Food Fair, which showcased regional dishes and products inspired by Minas Gerais cuisine and pairings with jabuticaba wine.

Visitors could taste a variety of delicacies made with local ingredients and learn new techniques in interactive workshops. The cooking shows and Senac Móvel workshops were a success in their own right, bringing the public closer to the world of artisanal food.

The presence of chefs, producers and artisans reinforced the concept of the creative economy, creating opportunities and boosting the town's food tourism.

Culture, Music and Unforgettable Encounters

Music was the soul of the 2017 Festa do Vinho. The stages welcomed acclaimed artists and local talent in an eclectic program that pleased all ages. Among the highlights, 14 Bis and Vanessa da Mata were the big names of the event, drawing large and enthusiastic crowds.

Besides the concerts, there were circus acts, street theater and artistic performances around the square, making the experience even more immersive and participatory.

These cultural elements reinforced the festival's purpose: to celebrate art, wine and the collective spirit of Catas Altas, always with the hospitality and joy typical of the people of Minas Gerais.

Closing and Legacy of the 2017 Edition

The closing of the festival was full of emotion and recognition. The awards for the best artisanal jabuticaba wines highlighted the talent of local producers and reinforced the importance of continuing this tradition.

With the support of Emater and partner institutions, the contest sought to encourage continuous improvement in production and strengthen the quality reputation of Catas Altas jabuticaba wine.

The 2017 edition will be remembered for its organization, infectious energy and balance between tradition and innovation. Once again, the town showed that the Festa do Vinho is much more than an event: it is a symbol of the culture, unity and identity of a people who toast to life with pride and flavor.