The Delicata Classic Wine Festival at the Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta, which is being held for the fifth consecutive year, opened its doors on Thursday.

The Wine Festival attracts thousands of people each year over its four days, and being the 5th edition of the event this year, Delicata have prepared a number of new attractions and activities.

Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi inaugurated the festival and following his speech, the new saluting canons in the lower gardens of Upper Barrakka were fired over the Grand Harbour.

Furthermore, for the first time, Delicata organised the Vendemmia Banquet in the lower gardens.

The banquet’s guest of honour the Prime Minister, along with members of the press together with a number of other guests were treated with an exquisite gala dinner.

In the upper Barrakka Gardens, the festival welcomed a large gathering of wine enthusiasts enjoying the free flowing wine with live jazz music played by Charles (City) Gatt and his band.

Steve Cole, who has become part of the Wine Festival tradition, will also be entertaining every night of the festival.

Various other performers such as Joe Brown, Claudette Pace and George Curmi (Pusè) will keep the crowd entertained.

A wide variety of quality wines (over 20 Maltese wines) are on offer throughout the whole event.

Accompanying the wine are various food areas offering a range of delicious international dishes to choose from. A fresh oyster bar, a focaccia bar as well as a refreshing wine sorbet bar are the new attractions this year. The Grand Harbour Grill restaurant is also offering food lovers freshly prepared mixed grills of fish or meat in the atmosphere of the festival, with a great view.

Also this year, for the first time, Delicata are also commemorating the Wine Festival with a special edition wine – Kastilja, which is available for sale at the Delicata Wine Festival in Valletta in both 75cl and 3 litre double magnum bottles.