Emmanuel Delicata Winemaker is proud to announce the return of Malta's most anticipated summer event, the Delicata Classic Wine Festival, taking place on 7, 8 and 9 August 2026. The festival returns to the historic Upper Barrakka Gardens for three nights of wine, live performances and Maltese and international cuisine.
Now in its 23rd edition, the festival has become a beloved Maltese summer tradition and a must-visit highlight of the season. As the sun sets behind Valletta's bastions and the Grand Harbour begins to glow, locals and visitors alike are invited to experience a curated selection of over 20 Delicata wines under Valletta's star-lit sky.
A Showcase of Maltese Favourites
The 2026 wine list features a diverse range of styles, including premium award-winning wines and the newly released Ziffa brand. Highlighting the evening are the semi-sparkling Frizzantes, crafted from the rare native old bush vines Girgentina and Ġellewża. Also featured are the boutique Medina and Victoria Heights ranges, the noble Gran Cavalier selections and the internationally acclaimed Grand Vin de Hauteville range. For those seeking lighter lifestyle options, the Dolcino, Falcon and Classic Collection varietals will be available alongside the popular SpritZZers.
Gastronomy and Live Performances
To complement the wine selection, some of Malta's top caterers will man live cooking stalls, serving a tempting variety of traditional Maltese and international dishes. This year's culinary partners include Corinthia Caterers, Busy Bee, Marriott Resort Malta and Ali Baba Restaurant.
The festival also boasts a premier musical line-up, all presented by singer and TV personality Andreana DeBattista. Live performances include sets by Relikc and Glen & Amber on Friday, followed by Kevin Paul & Band and Airport Impressions on Saturday. The weekend concludes on Sunday with The Crowns ft. Matthew James and a grand finale tribute to sing-along hits featuring Fabrizio Faniello, Ludwig Galea and Michela Galea accompanied by the Spiteri Lucas Band.
Attendance Details
Entrance to the gardens is free. For a seamless, cashless experience, all pourings are exchanged for wine coins. Wine is solely served by the glass. Patrons may purchase a festival wine purse for 26 Euro, which includes 24 wine coins and a souvenir glass to take home. An Online Priority Lane is available for those who pre-purchase their wine purses via the official website.
ESG Responsibility
The 2026 Delicata Classic Wine Festival is a core part of Delicata's environment, social and governance (ESG) commitment, supported by Visit Malta, Petrolea, Refpro Refrigeration, Mapfre, MeDirect and the Valletta Council and other authorities and stakeholders. Ride-sharing is serviced by Bolt.
The festival encourages responsible attendance. Strictly no wine will be served to persons under the age of 17. The festival opens at 7:00 pm, wine service concludes at 11:30 pm and the gardens close at midnight.
For more details and prepayment, visit the Delicata webpage https://www.delicata.com/2026-valletta-malta/