THE ECONOMIC EFFECTS OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF WINE TOURISM

Abstract

Tourism is the leading economic phenomenon of the present and is the generator of the economic growth of every country. Since tourism has become a global leading activity and a sector that is recognized as the least sensitive to market fluctuations and changes and that responds promptly to crisis market conditions, investors invest in it generous financial resources with an expected rate of return and profit in the short term. The extension of the tourist season is achieved by introducing new tourist products. One of the selective forms of tourism is wine tourism. Tourists are looking for authentic and unique and specific experiences when traveling to a certain destination. Wine tourism, i.e. the development of oenology in tourism, is a specific form of tourism intended for specially selected target groups of tourists who adapt their trip to their interests and love for oenology. They also visit areas where vines are grown and organize wine consumption. Thus, the tourist comes into direct contact with the host culture, exchanges positive experiences with people, learns about the cultural activities, attractiveness and overall value of the tourist destination. The development of wine tourism strongly contributes to the positioning and recognition of a specific tourist area. Quality wines and vineyard landscapes have always attracted special attention, and for some people they are more than just a stopover on a journey, they are their main attraction.