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Wine press review for Friday September 25-2026

with:

A concise selection dedicated to Italian wineries, the wine market, viticulture, oenology, innovation, sustainability, the international scene, and wine events.

Good morning,

Wine Idea presents the main news from the world of wine for Friday, September 25, 2026.

ITALIAN WINERIES

4 Valli Wineries: Addis-Carini couple wins new majority

Cantine 4 Valli , the leading winery in the province of Piacenza, has announced the transfer of its majority stake to Robert Addis and Francesca Carini .

The company produces over 10 million bottles a year and exports to more than 30 countries . The founding families, Ferrari and Perini, will remain shareholders and retain key roles, while Stefano Perini will continue as CEO.

The operation therefore aims to combine business continuity and international development.

Prosit Group launches Terre Brade for the Horeca channel

Prosit Group presents Terre Brade , a new line intended exclusively for the Italian Horeca sector.

The project expands the group’s portfolio towards Friuli-Venezia Giulia and Piedmont with seven products: Pinot Grigio Friuli DOC, Ribolla Gialla Venezia Giulia IGT, Sauvignon Friuli DOC, Traminer Aromatico Friuli DOC, Barbera d’Asti DOCG, Barolo DOCG and Langhe Nebbiolo DOC.

The goal is to offer recognizable and contemporary wines, with particular attention to a young audience.

Nice Winery: 2026 Harvest on the Rise

The Nizza winery closed the 2026 harvest with almost 36,000 quintals of grapes delivered , compared to 30,000 quintals in 2025, recording a growth of around 20% .

A significant recovery after the previous year’s decline and a sign of greater participation by winemakers in the cooperative’s project.

Lungarotti: sustainability, local area, and family continuity

Lungarotti continues its journey towards sustainability and local identity.

The Umbrian company has approximately 180 hectares of vineyards between Torgiano and Montefalco, produces approximately 2 million bottles per year and adopts practices oriented towards biodiversity and sustainability, with VIVA certification

Paolo Leo: Growth and New Family Strategies

Cantine Paolo Leo , a Puglia-based company that developed into its modern form starting in 1989, records an estimated turnover of approximately 25 million euros , with growth of 4.5% on the Italian market and 15% abroad by 2025.

The new generation of the family is now involved in key business functions. Future projects also include the relaunch of Candido and the creation of a Wine Museum.

Avignonesi invests in Sangiovese research

Avignonesi presents the “300% Sangiovese” project, the result of over fifteen years of research on the grape variety in Montepulciano.

Every year more than 100 hectares of Sangiovese are harvested and vinified separately in over 60 lots , studying the interaction between vineyard, soil and vintage.

Cordero di Montezemolo unites Barolo, art, and memory

The Cordero di Montezemolo Winery presents “Il Tratto” , a limited edition of the 2022 Barolo Monfalletto.

The project uses art and illustration to tell the family’s story and relationship with the Langhe, transforming the bottle into a tool for cultural as well as wine-related storytelling.

Calabria: recognition for Cantine Benvenuto’s Zibibbo

The Benvenuto Zibibbo 2025 from Cantine Benvenuto, produced in Francavilla Angitola, is among the Calabrian wines awarded the Tre Bicchieri 2027 .

The award recognizes a project built on the territorial interpretation of dry Zibibbo and its connection to the Costa degli Dei.

ITALIAN WINE AND ITALIAN OENOLOGY

Wine tourism: new support for the promotion of wines and regions

The Ministry of Agriculture has signed the decree dedicated to the promotion of wine tourism , as part of the national implementation of the so-called “Wine Package”.

The measure aims to support initiatives that connect wine, vineyards, regions, culture, and hospitality.

For the 2026/2027 campaign, the deadline for submitting applications is December 15, 2026 .

Grants can cover up to 50% of eligible costs for promotional initiatives, visits to wineries and vineyards, events, fairs, and exhibitions.

The Wine Tourism Movement welcomed the measure, but emphasized the importance of clearly defining the operating procedures and who will be able to access the resources.

Franciacorta: The landscape becomes a strategic lever

Franciacorta places the future of the wine-growing landscape at the center of the debate.

Environmental protection, architectural heritage, climate change, agronomy, manufacturing, and economic development must find new balances.

The topic was explored further as part of the Franciacorta in Cantina Festival , confirming how the value of a denomination increasingly depends on the quality and overall management of the territory.

Environmental claims: sustainability must be demonstrated

From September 27, new European rules against generic or unprovable environmental communications will come into force in Italy.

Expressions such as “green,” “eco-friendly,” “carbon neutral,” “verde,” or “natural” will require particular attention and appropriate verification elements.

For wine companies, the issue concerns not only labels, but also websites, brochures, commercial communications, trade fairs and events .

Sustainability is therefore increasingly becoming an element to be measured and documented, not just communicated.

Edmund Mach Foundation: First Grape Metabolomic Atlas

The Edmund Mach Foundation has created a metabolomic map of grape varieties based on the analysis of 126 varieties from all over the world .

The research studies the relationships between varieties through their metabolic composition, combining traditional genetic information with a true “chemical map” of the grape.

A tool designed to provide winemakers with new information on the characteristics and potential of different grape varieties.

Verduno Pelaverga DOC: bottled on the rise

In the first half of 2026, Verduno Pelaverga DOC recorded an 18% increase in bottled volumes compared to 2025 .

The appellation has grown from just over 150,000 bottles and around 20 hectares of vineyards in 2015 to over 274,000 bottles and 38 hectares ten years later.

An interesting case of growth built on the identity of a territorial grape variety and a style perceived as contemporary and versatile.

Prosecco: strong growth in French restaurants

In 2025, Prosecco recorded a 22.6% growth in volumes purchased by French bars, hotels, and restaurants through the channels analyzed by FranceAgriMer.

Compared to 2019, the indicated increase reaches 175% .

The result is particularly significant considering that, overall, the French wine market in the CHR channel recorded a contraction in volumes in 2025.

Wine faces new consumption models

The sector must face a structural transformation in demand.

Consumption of wine, beer and spirits is showing signs of weakness, while interest and investment in ready-to-drink beverages, new flavours, new formats and emerging markets is increasing.

For wine, it is therefore becoming increasingly important to understand not only how much to produce, but for which consumer, market, consumption occasion and distribution channel .

Harvesting and agricultural work: Veneto looks to the Trentino model

The Veneto region is evaluating forms of collaboration inspired by the Trentino “Ganzega” , which recognizes the spontaneous, occasional and free help of family members, friends and neighbors in seasonal agricultural activities.

The topic becomes particularly important during the grape harvest, a time when many agricultural businesses encounter difficulties finding labor.

Controls on agricultural work

In the Verona area, inspections conducted by the Carabinieri Labor Inspectorate have uncovered irregularities in some agricultural companies regarding labor and safety.

In Friuli-Venezia Giulia, an investigation by the Guardia di Finanza in Gorizia uncovered a labor exploitation scheme involving 107 undocumented workers in vineyards in the provinces of Gorizia and Udine.

Agriculture and Innovation: Young People Choose Soil Technologies

In Rome, over 250 young people , including agricultural institute students and agricultural entrepreneurs, participated in SOIL Date , an initiative dedicated to innovation applied to soil management.

At the center: climate change, water availability, fertility, competitiveness and sustainability of agricultural businesses.

INTERNATIONAL

France: No Saint-Sardos AOP for the 2026 vintage

The small French appellation Saint-Sardos AOP , north of Toulouse, will not produce wine under the appellation in the 2026 vintage.

The Vignerons de Saint-Sardos cooperative, responsible for approximately 97% of the volumes , has decided not to harvest the grapes due to the reduction in members, uprooting and the economic unsustainability of the limited quantities available.

Even the only independent winery using the appellation would have chosen to market the product as Vin de France.

The case represents a concrete sign of the economic and structural difficulties experienced by some areas of French viticulture.

France: Horeca market shrinks, but Prosecco grows

In 2025, the French wine market in the café-hotel-restaurant channel recorded a decrease of 3.6% in volume and 3.8% in value .

Italian Prosecco bucks the trend, continuing to increase its presence in French out-of-home dining.

Emirates strengthens its premium wine list

Emirates is updating its wine and champagne selection for premium passengers for 2026.

The labels listed include Dom Pérignon Vintage 2017 and 2003, Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru 2015, Le Petit Cheval Blanc 2023, Seña 2016, Penfolds RWT Shiraz 2015 and Vilafonté Series C 2016.

High-end wine thus continues to represent a tool for differentiation in the international hospitality and premium services offering.

WINE EVENTS AND WINE TOURISM

Sicily: “Autumn in the Cellar” from October 3rd to 25th

The IRVO – Regional Institute of Wine and Oil is promoting “Autumn in the Cellar,” a wine tourism itinerary that will involve seven wineries and seven Sicilian territories from October 3 to 25, 2026 .

The program includes visits to vineyards and cellars, tastings, gastronomy, culture, and cooking shows.

The final stage is scheduled for October 25th in Marsala , at Baglio Donna Franca.

The goal is to extend the Sicilian wine tourism season beyond the traditional summer months.

Valtènesi: 25th edition of Profumi di Mosto

Profumi di Mosto returns on Sunday 4 October , an event organised by the Consorzio Valtènesi – Riviera del Garda Classico.

Twenty-four wineries on the Brescia Riviera of Lake Garda will be involved, with tastings, visits, and initiatives dedicated to the grape harvest, hospitality, and local knowledge.

Siena: “Between Villages and Cellars” returns

From October 1st to November 26th 2026, “Tra Borghi e Cantine” (Between Villages and Cellars) returns to the province of Siena, now in its eighth edition.

Nine events are planned that will combine food, wine, villages, and typical products, accompanying the public towards Wine&Siena 2027.

Cities of Wine: From the Alps to Liguria

The meeting between the regional coordinators of the Wine Cities of Valle d’Aosta, Piedmont and Liguria took place in Chambave, in the Aosta Valley.

The initiative showcased different territories, grape varieties, and viticulture practices: from the Aosta Valley to the Cinque Terre, from Lunigiana to Alto Piemonte.

The Essential Guide to Italian Wines 2027

The new edition of DoctorWine’s Essential Guide to Italian Wines will be presented in Milan on October 3 .

Among the regions featured in the previews are Piedmont, Valle d’Aosta, and Liguria.

Today’s wine press review is brought to you by WINEIDEA.IT.

See you tomorrow.

Wine press review for Thursday September 24-2026

with:

Wine Idea presents the main news from the world of wine for Thursday, September 24, 2026.

Market, wineries, harvest, European policies, wine tourism, innovation, sustainability, and events: a summary of the most significant news for producers, wineries, operators, and professionals in the sector.

ITALIAN WINERIES

ARPEPE invests in Sassella: 7 hectares leased for 30 years

In Valtellina, ARPEPE has signed an agreement with the Fojanini Foundation to lease approximately 7 hectares of vineyards in the heart of the historic Sassella subzone for the next 30 years .

The operation is particularly significant in an area characterized by severe land fragmentation. The project involves a major vineyard reclamation project, involving approximately 35,000 new vines and operations made particularly complex by the terrain’s conformation, even requiring the use of helicopters.

The area also has an important agricultural and scientific history: it was Piero Fojanini who united numerous small plots to form a complex of almost 10 hectares on the outskirts of Sondrio.

Feudo Antico, the artisanal project of Cantina Tollo

Cantina Tollo continues its diversification path through Feudo Antico , a project dedicated to artisanal production and the valorization of native vines.

The initiative focuses in particular on the DOCG Tullum , one of the smallest denominations in Italy, with approximately 18 hectares cultivated entirely in the Municipality of Tollo , in the province of Chieti.

Feudo Antico is being developed as a laboratory for experimentation and oenological archaeology, combining the recovery of local varieties, environmental protection, and community development.

Contini 1898 Winery Takes Center Stage at the Bottarga Festival

The fifth edition of the Bottarga Festival concluded in Cabras, with around 20,000 attendees over three days .

Cantina Contini 1898 wines have accompanied various gastronomic events, from contemporary Sardinian cuisine to influences with Japanese cuisine.

Among the featured labels are Karmis , which is celebrating its thirtieth anniversary, and Elibaria Vermentino di Gallura DOCG , proposed to pair with seafood cuisine.

Cantina Settecani grows in bottles and looks to Japan

Cantina Settecani , in the Lambrusco Grasparossa di Castelvetro area, closed the financial year ending June 30 with double-digit growth in bottle sales , according to Vice President Daniela Vaschieri.

The cooperative focuses on enhancing the quality of Lambrusco and exporting. Among the most interesting markets is Japan , where the winery is developing its presence through a major local importer.

The experience also highlights an evolution in Asian consumption: from an initial interest in sweet Lambrusco to a greater awareness of dry versions.

Masciarelli: from the company’s founding to exports to approximately 60 countries

Gianni Masciarelli ‘s story represents one of the most significant entrepreneurial journeys in Abruzzo wine.

The project was born in 1981 in San Martino sulla Marrucina and has grown through investment, research, and a strong focus on major international wine regions, particularly Burgundy and Champagne.

Today the Masciarelli brand is exported to around 60 countries , while Miriam Lee Masciarelli represents one of the new generation figures committed to the international development of the company.

ITALIAN WINE AND OENOLOGY

Wine tourism: new national decree signed

Agriculture Minister Francesco Lollobrigida announced the signing of the decree promoting wine tourism in Italy.

The measure implements the reform of the Common Agricultural Policy’s wine intervention at a national level and aims to better connect wine, territories, tourism, culture and hospitality .

Protection consortia, producer organizations, and inter-professional organizations will be able to benefit from the intervention through events, meetings, visits, and other promotion activities.

Applications may be submitted by October 30 of each year according to the procedures established by Agea with the Regions. For the 2026/2027 financial year, the deadline is December 15, 2026 .

Crisis distillation, green harvesting, and grubbing-up: new EU rules

The new EU Delegated Regulation 2026/2093 on emergency measures applicable to the wine sector has been in force since 16 September 2026 .

The measure regulates the conditions for resorting to wine distillation, green harvesting, and uprooting vineyards in times of crisis.

For distillation and green harvesting, Member States will be able to request the activation of measures, using national funds, under certain conditions, including:

sharp increase in inventories;
significant reduction in average producer prices;
significant decrease in sales not linked to a reduction in production.

The conditions are also evaluated in relation to the performance of previous campaigns.

2026 Harvest: Initial Positive Indications of Quality

The 2026 Italian harvest is well underway, and the main wine-growing areas are providing varied but generally interesting assessments of the quality.

Conditions vary depending on the territories, grape varieties and ripening periods, making a definitive assessment still premature.

In the Monferrato and Asti areas , the first indications reported by the Barbera d’Asti and Vini del Monferrato Consortium highlight positive prospects in terms of both quantity and quality.

Regenerative viticulture: cover crops and microorganisms to improve soils

A study conducted in Spain analyzed the combined use of cover crops and microbial biostimulants in vineyard management.

The goal is to counteract the progressive impoverishment of soils due to frequent tillage and the intensive use of chemical inputs, improving the soil’s capacity to retain water and nutrients.

The experiment, carried out on Syrah in Andalusia , therefore explores new regenerative agriculture strategies applicable to viticulture.

Malvasia delle Lipari: Seven Additional Geographic Units Arrive

The assembly of the Malvasia delle Lipari Protection Consortium unanimously approved a proposed amendment to the specifications.

Among the main innovations are the formal introduction of the Dry White typology and the introduction of seven UGA – Additional Geographical Units , corresponding to the seven Aeolian Islands.

The change will allow the names of the individual islands to be indicated on the label, strengthening the territorial identity of the denomination.

Pecorino: the new challenge is to move from volumes to value

In just over forty years, Pecorino has gone from being a nearly extinct grape variety to one of the most popular white wines in central Italy.

However, the growth of vineyards and volumes has not always been matched by a proportional growth in value.

The new challenge therefore consists in transforming awareness and diffusion into reputation, territorial recognition and a greater ability to sustain the price .

In Abruzzo, Pecorino has reached a much larger production scale, while in the Piceno area, denominations such as Falerio Pecorino and Offida Pecorino DOCG are more oriented towards quality, margins, and positioning.

More resilient bubbles in the wine market

In a complex phase for the wine market, sparkling wines continue to demonstrate greater resilience than other categories.

This phenomenon has led many Italian regions to invest in sparkling wine production. Franciacorta remains a benchmark for Italian Metodo Classico, with producers and operators committed to defending the denomination’s identity, quality, and positioning.

Young people and wine: consumption opportunities are changing

According to Martina Centa , AGIVI vice president and brand manager of the Roeno winery, the new generations are not simply abandoning wine, but are changing the ways and occasions in which it is consumed.

People are drinking less out of habit and are paying more attention to health, lifestyle, language, and product identity.

It is therefore important for the sector to communicate wine in more contemporary, understandable ways, and in touch with new consumers.

Wine and reputation: more accessible communication is needed

Health, sustainability, and new lifestyles are changing the public perception of wine.

One of the main challenges is to make communication more understandable without trivializing the product .

Consumers can seek quality, history, and expertise without necessarily knowing the technical language of tasting. Bridging this gap can therefore become a strategic factor for the future of the supply chain.

Wine Storytelling: Telling People and Identities

Wine communication is progressively moving from simple technical description towards the story of people, places and identities .

The story of the producer, the vineyard, and the territory can create a more immediate connection with the consumer than communication built exclusively on numbers, scores, and technical characteristics.

For wineries, storytelling thus becomes a positioning tool, provided it is authentic, recognizable, and consistent with the product.

Veneto enters the “Best in Travel 2027” list

Veneto is listed as the only Italian region among the destinations in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2027 selection.

Among the elements recalled are the variety of landscapes, the Dolomites, Lake Garda, Verona, Padua, the Prosecco hills , the Po Delta and the food and wine heritage.

This recognition can further strengthen the relationship between tourism, wine, the region, and food and wine experiences.

Terreni.io is born to connect agricultural companies and workers.

A new Italian platform aims to facilitate meetings between agricultural companies and specialized workers .

Terreni.io allows companies to post jobs for tractor drivers, pruners, grape harvesters, and other agricultural professionals, while workers can submit their skills and experience.

The platform doesn’t handle contracts or payments, but it facilitates direct contact and integrates a referral system. Sections for events and land for sale or rent are also included.

WINE EVENTS

Trentodoc Festival: 160 events from September 25th to 27th

The Trentodoc Festival returns from 25 to 27 September 2026 , with around 160 events in Trento and the production areas.

The program includes tastings, wine talks, food events, sensory workshops, visits, and initiatives dedicated to the Classic Method.

The Trentodoc in Cantina program is particularly varied, with 125 appointments in the sparkling wine houses , including tastings, visits to the production spaces, old vintages, disgorging, trekking, e-bikes and picnics in the vineyards.

Reboro. Territory & Passion: October 16th and 17th in the Valle dei Laghi

The ninth edition of “Reboro. Territory & Passion” is scheduled for October 16 and 17, 2026 in Valle dei Laghi, Trentino .

The protagonist is Reboro, a wine obtained from grapes left to dry until late November and then aged for three years in oak barrels.

The 2026 edition will see the meeting between Reboro and Nizza DOCG , creating a comparison between two territories and different interpretations of Italian red wine.

Morbegno in Cantina: Three weekends dedicated to Valtellina

Morbegno in Cantina returns, an event dedicated to the relationship between wine, culture, and territory.

The 2026 edition will take place over three weekends: September 25-27, October 2-4 and October 9-11 .

The goal is to strengthen the link between winemaking excellence, tourism, and local promotion through tastings and initiatives held throughout the center of the Valtellina town.

Wine Sicily: Over 100 Wineries in Palermo

From 9 to 11 October 2026 Palermo will host the eighth edition of Wine Sicily .

After the over 12,000 attendees recorded in the previous edition, the event will go from two to three days and will involve more than 100 wineries .

Villa Trabia will host tastings and masterclasses dedicated to the diverse identities of Sicilian wine, with in-depth studies also on the wines of Etna and the Monreale DOC.

Degu-Stazioni brings wine to the Milan subway

On September 27 , the “Degu-Stazioni” project will take wine out of traditional places of consumption.

The initiative involves the participation of 30 wineries with tastings along the stops of the M5 line of the Milan metro .

The goal is to use more accessible language and bring wine directly to places frequented by the public, also bringing new consumers closer.

Terra Madre Salone del Gusto: Wine, Territory, and Inclusion

Terra Madre Salone del Gusto will feature the workshop “The Right Wine – Stories of Solidarity in a Glass,” dedicated to the relationship between wine quality, social sustainability, and the local area.

Through four wines and four production experiences, the meeting will address the role that viticulture can have in creating inclusion, autonomy and territorial regeneration .

Wine press review for Wednesday September 23-2026

with:

Italian wineries, Italian wine producers, and current wine news.

Good morning,

Wine Idea presents international markets, exports, harvests, technological innovation, Italian wineries, wine tourism, and events. Today’s topics include: the recovery of Italian wine in the United States, CMO funds for international promotion, the results of Italian Wine Brands, Canevel’s tenth anniversary within the Masi Group, artificial intelligence applied to the vineyard, and the growing importance of wine tourism.

ITALIAN WINERIES

Masi and Canevel: Ten Years Together, Business Doubled

September 26th marks ten years since Canevel Spumanti joined the Masi Agricola Group . Since 2016, Canevel’s business has doubled; the brand is now present in 40 countries , and exports represent approximately 40% of sales . The operation has allowed Masi to strengthen its presence in premium sparkling wines and Canevel to develop its international distribution and positioning.

Italian Wine Brands: Revenues of €184.4 million in the first half of 2026

Italian Wine Brands closed the first half of 2026 with revenues of 184.4 million euros , down 5.9% compared to 195.88 million euros in the same period of 2025. Net profit was 7.87 million euros , down 23.9%, while net financial debt at the end of June was 81.79 million euros.

Vicobarone Winery: Record Harvest, 23% Grapes

The Cantina di Vicobarone received 32,600 quintals of grapes , 23% more than in 2025. The cooperative, which comprises 125 members, also reports a particularly high level of quality. The goal is to maintain at least the €43 per quintal average paid for grapes from the 2025 harvest.

Chitarra Winery: 600 hectares to tell the story of Sicilian wine.

The Sicilian Cantina Chitarra cooperative, founded in 1907 and extensively renovated since 2012, has approximately 600 hectares of vineyards , 75% dedicated to white grapes and 25% to red varieties. Alongside international varieties, it cultivates numerous native varieties, including Grillo, Catarratto, Inzolia, Zibibbo, Nero d’Avola, Frappato, Perricone, and Nerello Mascalese.

Argiolas: 2026 could be the year of Vermentino

For Argiolas , a historic Sardinian winery, the market is showing greater interest in white wines and products with lower alcohol content. The company points to Vermentino as one of the season’s stars. Climate change remains a major challenge: in some areas, it leads to lower yields, but it can also lead to healthier grapes.

Tenute Tomasella focuses on wine tourism

In Mansué, between Friuli DOC and Prosecco DOC Treviso , Tenute Tomasella offers three tasting itineraries for autumn. The goal is to transform a visit to the winery into an experience that explores the wine, the region, the company’s history, and the culture of hospitality.

Over 3,000 bottles of Barolo were stolen from the cellar.

A major theft has hit the Conterno e Fantino winery in Monforte d’Alba . Over 3,000 bottles of Barolo were stolen, including magnums and jeroboams from the 2021 and 2022 vintages, with an estimated value of several hundred thousand euros. Law enforcement is analyzing video surveillance footage.

A Barolo from the Langhe aged for a year in the Arctic

The Rivetto winery in Serralunga d’Alba , together with the Norwegian company Hurtigruten, has created the Arctic Barolo project. 1,002 bottles of 2021 Barolo were left for twelve months at a depth of 34 meters in Norwegian Arctic waters , at a constant temperature of approximately 5-6°C and under a pressure of approximately 4 bar. The experiment studies the evolution of the wine in conditions very different from those of a traditional cellar.

ITALIAN WINE AND OENOLOGY

Italian wine exports to the US: July returns to positive territory

After several difficult months, in July Italian wine exports to the United States recorded year-on-year growth of nearly 10% in value and 1.3% in volume, with an average price up 8%. This recovery reduces the cumulative decline for the first seven months of 2026 to 11%. However, the long-term picture remains complex: the marketing year from August 2025 to July 2026 is one of the weakest in recent history.

International Promotion: 15 CMO Projects Admitted by Masaf

The Masaf (Italian Agricultural Fund for Agricultural Products) has published the provisional ranking for CMO Wine funds for the 2026/27 wine year . Fifteen projects have been admitted, with total government funding of €28.5 million and promotional programs worth nearly €65 million . Those involved include Zonin, Nosio-Gruppo Mezzacorona, Herita Marzotto, the Institute of Quality Italian Wine, Fantini Group, Gruppo Italiano Vini, the Prosecco DOC Consortium, and Marchesi Frescobaldi.

2026 Harvest: Weather Divides Italian Wine Region

The hot and dry summer produced very different results across Italy’s wine-growing regions. Twelve wineries, from North to South, highlight how the ability to adapt increasingly depends on vineyard management, canopy, rootstock choice, water availability, and staff skills . Climate change is transforming agronomic decisions into an increasingly strategic component of production.

AI-GRAPE: Artificial intelligence and data to protect vineyards

The European AI-GRAPE project, developed in the Italy-Slovenia cross-border area, is creating a decision support system for winemakers and technicians. The platform integrates weather stations, traps, vineyard surveys, satellite and drone imagery, forecasting models, and data collected via apps to improve monitoring of grapevine moths, grapevine leafhoppers, and Scaphoideus titanus, the vector of Flavescence dorée.

More resilient bubbles in the wine market

In a challenging period for consumption, sparkling wines continue to demonstrate greater resilience than other categories. This phenomenon is pushing new regions toward sparkling wine production. Franciacorta remains one of Italy’s benchmarks for the Metodo Classico, and the sector is reflecting on the need to defend its identity, quality, and positioning.

Malvasia delle Lipari: Towards a New Dry White DOC

The producers’ assembly approved a proposal to amend the Malvasia delle Lipari DOC production regulations to introduce a dry white version. If the process is approved by the Sicilian Region and the National Wine Committee, the Malvasia delle Lipari Bianco version will be created, alongside the Passito and Vendemmia Tardiva versions.

Calabria: From ancient passito grapes, new dry wines are born.

In Saracena, at the foot of the Pollino, some producers are reinterpreting the grapes traditionally used for Moscato di Saracena. Moscatello, Malvasia, and Guarnaccia are now also used to make dry white wines , while also reviving ancient local winemaking techniques.

Slow Wine 2027: 173 wines receive the “Bottle” award

The 2027 Slow Wine guide awards the “Bottle” symbol, reserved for wines deemed to be of excellent quality, to 173 labels . Forty-four wineries have earned the recognition in the guide’s seventeenth edition.

Tre Bicchieri 2027: 49 Veneto wines awarded

Forty-nine Veneto wines have been awarded Gambero Rosso’s Tre Bicchieri 2027. This recognition captures the diversity of the region’s winemaking system, from Prosecco to Soave, from Valpolicella to the Euganean Hills, from Garda to Montello.

Organic: consumption up 9.2%, but conversion areas are decreasing

According to the Bio in Cifre 2026 report, edited by ISMEA for Masaf, organic product consumption grew by 9.2% in both value and volume in 2025. In the first six months of 2026, sales increased by a further 4%. On the production front, however, organic acreage decreased by 5.4%, primarily due to the sharp reduction in areas under conversion.

Grape seeds: fiber, oil, and polyphenols as a grape resource

Grape seeds also represent an interesting raw material. Grape seeds contain fiber, oils, proteins, and phenolic compounds such as catechin, epicatechin, and proanthocyanidins. This composition reinforces the interest in recovering and valorizing by-products of the winemaking industry.

Wine in the Ravenna area: an economic sector worth analyzing

The province of Ravenna stands out in Emilia-Romagna for its vineyard area and number of wineries. A new in-depth study on the region analyzes the economic impact of the supply chain and the future challenges for producers and businesses.

Agricultural work: inspections during grape harvest and harvesting in Friuli

Between late August and mid-September, the Udine-Pordenone Territorial Labor Inspectorate inspected 16 workers , finding seven of them unemployed. Three agricultural businesses were ordered to suspend operations. Deficiencies in safety, training, and health surveillance were also reported.

INTERNATIONAL

Napa Valley: Wine tourism generates $2.8 billion

In 2025, Napa Valley welcomed approximately 3.8 million visitors , who spent $2.2 billion in the county. The overall economic impact of tourism was estimated at $2.8 billion , up 2.9% from 2024. Retail and wineries generated $647 million, while food and beverage reached $505 million.

The data confirms the role of wine tourism as an increasingly important economic component for international wine destinations.

WINE TOURISM, CULTURE AND WINE-RELATED EVENTS

Contemporary art among the vineyards: 14 Italian wineries open to the public

From 23 to 25 October, fourteen wineries across eight Italian regions will open their contemporary art collections and installations free of charge as part of the second edition of MetodoContemporaneo .

The companies involved include Ca’ del Bosco, Fontanafredda, Castello di Perno, Bosca, La Raia, Livio Felluga, Bonotto delle Tezze, Castello di Ama, Frescobaldi-CastelGiocondo, Rocca di Frassinello, Lungarotti, Feudi di San Gregorio, Agricola Bellaria, and Planeta.

Diesel Farm takes center stage at Homo Faber Venice

Diesel Farm , an agricultural and winemaking project initiated by Renzo Rosso in the Vicenza area, is participating in the Homo Faber events in Venice with the Del Local restaurant. Following the September 16th meeting, further tastings are planned for September 23rd and 29th.

Mario Soldati: Wine and food to tell the story of Italy

On October 6th in Milan , La Scolca will dedicate the talk show “Mario Soldati – The Taste of Telling Italy” to Mario Soldati, marking the 120th anniversary of his birth. The initiative celebrates the writer, director, and journalist’s role in narrating Italy’s story through its regions, culture, food, and wine.

Alta Langa and the Alba White Truffle Fair: ten years of collaboration

2026 marks the tenth anniversary of the partnership between the Alta Langa Consortium and the Alba International White Truffle Fair . This collaboration unites two Piedmontese excellences through tastings, masterclasses, events, and initiatives dedicated to promoting the region.

Prosecco Cycling: Valdobbiadene Meets International Cycle Tourism

The Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Cycling returns on Sunday, September 27th . Since its debut in 2004, the event has brought over 58,000 participants from 35 countries to the Prosecco Hills. Sport, the UNESCO landscape, wine, and gastronomy thus become integrated tools for promoting the region.

Cartizze Loop: Trekking and Wine Tourism Among the Vineyards

Autumn highlights the Anello del Cartizze , a trail through the hills of Valdobbiadene and the 107 hectares of the famous Cartizze area. The trek passes through vineyards, villages, and landscapes characterized by heroic, manual viticulture, integrating outdoor activities and winemaking experience.

Valpolicella: Wine, Villages, and Territory for Autumn

Between September and November, Valpolicella becomes a prime destination for wine tourism. Vineyards, villages, wineries, churches, trails, and the traditional drying of Corvina, Corvinone, and Rondinella grapes create a unique experience that connects Amarone, Recioto, landscape, and culture.

Palio of Wine and Flavors in Negrar

On Saturday, September 26th and Sunday, September 27th, Negrar di Valpolicella hosts the Palio del Vino e dei Sapori (Wine and Flavors Palio). Twenty-four wineries and 14 associations will participate, offering tastings, food, music, markets, and charitable initiatives.

Capraia: A Vineyard as a Return to the Land Project

On the island of Capraia, a young winemaking venture illustrates the return to agriculture in an island region plagued by depopulation. The vineyard thus becomes not only a productive activity, but a tool for protecting and revitalizing the region.

Students at the Harvest: Training from the Vineyard to the Cellar

Sixth-year students in the Raineri Marcora Institute’s Winemaking program participated in the grape harvest at the Monferrina winery in Vicobarone. The experience covered the entire production cycle: assessing ripeness, harvesting, grape transportation, and the initial stages of winemaking in the teaching cellar of the Piacenza Agri-Food Campus.

PICTURE OF THE DAY

The September 23 review shows a rapidly changing Italian wine sector. Exports, profitability, and consumption remain under pressure , but at the same time, signs of recovery are emerging from the United States and the bubbly sector is holding up well.

Today’s wine press review is brought to you by WINEIDEA.IT.

See you tomorrow.

Wine press review for Tuesday September 22-2026

with:

Italian wineries, Italian wine producers, and current wine news.

Good morning,

Wine Idea presents a summary of the main news from the world of wine: companies, markets, innovation, regions, international trends, and events.

ITALIAN WINERIES

Pio Cesare: Mosconi and the new generation of the historic Barolo winery

Federica Boffa, Pio and Cesare Benvenuto recount the Pio Cesare family’s journey at the Mosconi MGA in Monforte d’Alba. Approximately ten hectares were purchased in 2014 and subsequently restored, including two parcels of Nebbiolo from 1947. The first Mosconi Barolo harvest was in 2015. On the market, the winery is experiencing difficulties related to tariffs and declining consumption, but is also seeing some signs of recovery.

Tenuta San Giorgio: 85 hectares and 1.5 million bottles

Tenuta San Giorgio, a family-run winery founded in 1971 by Sergio Tombacco in Maserada sul Piave, is now in its fourth generation. It manages 85 hectares of vineyards between Maserada sul Piave and Arquà Petrarca, all under the SQNPI (Single-Protected Geographical Indication) regime, and produces approximately 1.5 million bottles. Its wines include Insula 2022, a Manzoni Bianco Veneto IGT from the Grave di Papadopoli area.

Cocchi focuses on the Alta Langa

Cocchi expands its Alta Langa offering with Espressione Bianc Pas Dosé 2019, a sparkling wine made from white grapes and aged on the lees for five years. The house’s total production of Alta Langa labels now totals approximately 150,000 bottles, joining its Piedmontese sparkling wines, Vermouth, and Barolo Chinato.

Tasca d’Almerita pays tribute to Lucio Tasca

The historic Sicilian winery presents “Lucio Pensiero,” a wine dedicated to Lucio Tasca and the vision that, since the late 1980s, contributed to the internationalization of Sicilian wine. At a time when native grape varieties were less recognized internationally, the introduction of Chardonnay and Cabernet represented a strategic choice to compete in global markets.

Murgo: Over 160 Years of Viticulture on Mount Etna

Murgo’s origins date back to 1860. Today, the estate encompasses approximately 60 hectares of vineyards within a 120-hectare agricultural complex. The company was among the pioneers of sparkling wine production using pure Nerello Mascalese, a process begun in the 1990s and now one of the company’s signature products.

Rivetto brings Barolo to the Arctic waters

After twelve months at a depth of 34 meters in Norwegian waters, 1,002 bottles of Barolo Rivetto 2021 resurfaced. The “Arctic Barolo” project, carried out together with Hurtigruten, experienced refinement in conditions characterized by a constant temperature of around 5-6 °C, complete darkness and a pressure of around 4 bar.

Cantina Pizzolato celebrates 45 years

Cantina Pizzolato celebrates its 45th anniversary in 2026. On September 26th, the winery opens its doors to the public and presents “Together for Nature,” a social project dedicated to the community. New developments include the sustainable redesign of the Family Collection and the new Prosecco DOC Extra Brut.

Calabria: New dry wines are born from passito grapes.

In Saracena, some producers are reinterpreting the grapes traditionally used to make the historic Moscato al Governo di Saracena. Cantine Diana offers Mileo Bianco from Moscatello, Malvasia, and Guarnaccia, while Cantine Viola is reviving the ancient “raspato” technique. Tradition and experimentation thus become tools for showcasing local grape varieties.

ITALIAN WINE AND OENOLOGY

Marche: New promotional strategies needed after the 2026 harvest

The challenging 2026 harvest is forcing the Marche winemaking system to rethink its organization and promotion. Michele Bernetti, president of the Marche Wine Protection Institute, emphasizes the need to move beyond a single promotional model: different appellations have different markets, priorities, and targets. Greater planning and marketing positioning are therefore crucial.

Monferrato: Work in the vineyard continues after the harvest

Harvesting doesn’t complete the vine’s cycle. As long as the leaves remain active, photosynthesis allows the plant to accumulate the reserves needed to weather the winter and sustain growth the following spring in the shoots, trunk, and especially in the roots.

PIWI: Resistant grape varieties to reduce treatments

Fungal-resistant varieties represent one possible response to the need to reduce pesticide use. So-called PIWI varieties are derived from crosses between Vitis vinifera and resistant species and may require fewer treatments. Research is paying particular attention to their oenological quality and adaptation to hot, dry Mediterranean environments.

Sicilia DOC invests in training

The Consortium for the Protection of DOC Sicilia Wines launches the “DOC Sicilia Academy,” a program aimed at industry professionals. The main themes are wine tourism, innovation in winemaking, and energy efficiency, with the aim of strengthening businesses’ skills and supporting them in market developments.

Tre Bicchieri 2027: The map of Italian excellence continues.

Gambero Rosso is presenting the wines awarded Tre Bicchieri in the 2027 Italian Wines Guide, region by region. Sicily, Umbria, and Basilicata are among the regions already announced.

In Sicily, 31 labels received awards, a new regional record, with a significant presence of Marsala, Grillo, and Etna wines. In Umbria, 17 bottles received the highest recognition. In Basilicata, Vulture and Aglianico continue to represent the region’s main production.

Slow Wine 2027: 247 wineries awarded the Snail

The Slow Wine 2027 guide has awarded 247 Snails, five more than in the previous edition. The recognition takes into account how wineries interpret wine quality, terroir, environmental sustainability, and value for money.

Spergola: an ancient Emilian grape variety returns to prominence

In the Reggio Emilia hills between Scandiano and Canossa, interest is growing in Spergola, a variety with a long local tradition. Genetic research by the University of Bologna has clarified its identity, after it was long confused with Sauvignon Blanc.

Wine tourism and hospitality: 19 wine-related establishments in the Michelin Keys

The new Italian selection of Michelin Keys includes 224 award-winning hotels. Of these, 19 are directly connected to the world of wine: two with Three Keys, five with Two Keys, and 12 with One Key. This confirms the growing importance of quality hospitality in wineries’ diversification strategies.

Milan: Noloteca opens, a space dedicated to alcohol-free beverages.

Noloteca, a shop specializing exclusively in zero-alcohol products, from fermented beverages to non-alcoholic spirits, has opened in Milan’s Isola neighborhood. The initiative taps into the growing interest in new ways to consume and alternatives to traditional alcoholic beverages.

Winery Safety: Tragedy in Partinico

In Partinico, in the province of Palermo, a mother and son were found dead in a room also used for fermentation containers. Initial investigations suggest fumes and a severe lack of oxygen. Authorities are currently investigating. The incident raises awareness of the risks of closed environments during fermentation.

Langhe: Around 3,000 bottles of Barolo stolen

A high-value theft has affected a winery in the Langhe region. According to reports, at least four people stole approximately 3,000 bottles of Barolo, selecting the most valuable batches. Law enforcement is analyzing video surveillance footage.

Ombrone: A documentary rediscovers Etruscan wine

The documentary “Ombrone, Etruscan Wine” recounts the work of winemaker Francesco Mondini and the revival of practices inspired by Etruscan viticulture and winemaking. Archaeology, amphorae, permaculture, and ancestral techniques become tools to explore the relationship between wine, land, and memory.

INTERNATIONAL

France: Wine exports to reach €5.4 billion in the first half of 2026

French wine is also slowing on international markets. In the first half of 2026, exports reached €5.4 billion , down 2.2% , while volumes fell 1.5% to 618.9 million liters.

The average price decreased by 0.7%, settling at 8.74 euros/litre.

Sparkling wines bucked the trend: 1.9 billion euros (2.6%) and 99.4 million litres (6%), even if the average price fell by 3.2%.

The United States remains the leading market in terms of value, with approximately 1 billion euros, but has seen a 9.8% decline. Growth is, however, seen in the United Kingdom (3.8%), Singapore (8.4%), and above all Hong Kong (17.8%).

The French data fits into an international context in which Italy also closed the first half of 2026 with declining wine exports.

WINE EVENTS

Autumnus brings Burgundy to Trento

From October 1st to 11th, “Autumnus – Fruits of the Earth” returns to Trento. This sixth edition focuses on Burgundy, bringing the Trentino region into dialogue with some of Europe’s leading winemakers through tastings, meetings, and in-depth discussions.

Morbegno in the Cellar 2026

Three weekends dedicated to Valtellina: September 25-27, October 2-4, and October 9-11 . Morbegno in Cantina offers over 60 labels, including reds, Sforzatos, sparkling wines, whites, rosés, and organic wines, with guided tours led by producers, AIS sommeliers, and ONAV tasters.

Contemporary Method: Wine, Art, and Landscape in 14 Wineries

From October 23rd to 25th , 14 wineries across eight Italian regions will participate in the second edition of “MetodoContemporaneo – Itineraries through Arts, Wine, and Landscape.” The initiative, promoted by the University of Verona with Iter Vitis and Nemo Monti Comunicazione, offers visits, meetings, and experiences dedicated to the relationship between wine, art, architecture, and the landscape.

The MonteNapoleone Harvest

On October 8th in Milan , the Fashion District will once again bring together major wineries and luxury brands. Boutiques, hotels, and prestigious spaces will host tastings and meetings as part of the 17th edition of “La Vendemmia di MonteNapoleone.”

Pizzolato Winery opens its doors for its 45th anniversary.

On September 26th, Cantina Pizzolato will celebrate its 45th anniversary with an event open to the public. The day will also feature the presentation of the “Together for Nature” project, the redesign of the Family Collection, and the new Prosecco DOC Extra Brut.

PICTURE OF THE DAY

The news of September 22, 2026, shows a wine sector undergoing a transformation on several fronts.

On the commercial front, the slowdown in exports also affects France and confirms that the pressure on consumption and the main international markets does not only concern Italian wine.

At the same time, there is growing attention towards diversification and added value : hospitality and wine tourism, training, sustainability, wine experimentation, the valorization of historic grape varieties and even new non-alcoholic categories.

For wineries, it is therefore increasingly important not to limit themselves to production, but to build a model capable of integrating wine, territory, brand, distribution, experience and direct relationship with the consumer .

Today’s wine press review is brought to you by WINEIDEA.IT.

See you tomorrow.