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Wine press review for Monday September 21-2026

with:

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

Good morning,

Wine Idea presents the main news from the world of wine, viticulture, and oenology in Italy and internationally.

ITALIAN WINERIES

Luigi Einaudi Estates: Dogliani and its Langhe roots

Dolcetto di Dogliani represents one of the deepest ties between Poderi Luigi Einaudi and the Langhe region. It was in Dogliani that Luigi Einaudi purchased his first lands, laying the foundations for the winery. A name that continues to represent history, family identity, and a connection to the land.

Ongaresca takes Pinot Noir to 120 months on the lees

The Ongaresca winery, located in Costabissara in the Lessinia area near Vicenza, presents Centoventi 2014 , a Metodo Classico Pas Dosé made from 100% Pinot Noir, aged for 120 months on the lees. Production is limited to 2,900 bottles and 96 numbered magnums. This project was born to study the evolutionary potential of the company’s sparkling wines.

Marchesi di Barolo featured on Sky Arte

The historic Marchesi di Barolo winery will be featured in the docu-series BEVI – The Art of Winemaking on Sky Arte on September 26th. The episode, “Guardians of a Legend,” recounts six generations of the Abbona family, including historic wineries, Langhe vineyards, Barolo Castle, and hospitality.

The “Futurist Winery” is born in Treviso

A new 750-square-meter food and wine business, conceived by brothers Enrico and Alberto Fagotto, has opened on Via Fonderia in Treviso. The facility integrates wine production, an open cellar, and a restaurant, offering a model that unites wine, architecture, nature, and the consumer experience.

Cirò Bianco: Promoting Native Calabrian Grape Varieties

Caparra & Siciliani’s 2024 Cirò Bianco Curiale , produced from Greco Bianco and Pecorello and vinified in steel, draws attention to the potential of Calabrian whites and the growing appreciation of the region’s native grape varieties.

ITALIAN WINE AND ITALIAN OENOLOGY

2026 Harvest: Barolo’s Earliest Harvest Ever

In the Langhe, Nebbiolo for Barolo began to be harvested in early September. According to producers, 2026 will be an exceptionally early harvest. The main challenge remains preserving elegance, freshness, and balance despite high temperatures and accelerated ripening.

The climate changes, the style of Italian wine changes.

Higher temperatures, drought, and early ripening are changing strategies in the vineyard and cellar. At the same time, market tastes are changing: a growing portion of Italian production now focuses on freshness, tension, fragrance, lower extraction, and greater drinkability , scaling back the model of highly concentrated, oak-driven wines.

365 winemakers share their experiences addressing climate change

The Almanac of Wine Artisans – The Climate Challenge collects the experiences of 365 Italian winemakers , from the Aosta Valley to Sicily. The volume offers a concrete overview of the practices adopted by organic, biodynamic, and natural producers to cope with early harvests, rising temperatures, and climate change.

Heroic Vineyards: Harvest, Landscape, and Land Protection

Harvesting in mountain vineyards highlights the value of so-called heroic viticulture , characterized by steep slopes, difficult mechanization, and predominantly manual harvesting. Beyond wine production, these vineyards play an important role in landscape conservation and the protection of fragile territories.

Edmund Mach Foundation creates the first grape metabolomic atlas.

The Edmund Mach Foundation has created the first global metabolomic atlas of grape varieties. The study analyzed 126 international varieties , classifying them based on the grape’s molecular composition. The goal is to provide researchers and winemakers with new tools to understand the relationship between genetic heritage and the characteristics expressed by grape varieties.

Barolo and Brunello: two great appellations compared

At Serralunga Day , 14 Barolos from the Serralunga d’Alba crus and 14 Brunello di Montalcino wines were compared across various vintages, dating back to the 1990s. The initiative consolidates the collaboration between the two Consortia and offers a comparison of the two appellations’ capacity for evolution, territorial identity, and longevity.

CMO Promotion: €28.5 million for non-EU markets

The provisional national ranking for the 2026/2027 CMO Wine Promotion program provides €28.5 million in funding for 15 eligible projects, out of a total expenditure of approximately €64.9 million . The resources are earmarked for the promotion of Italian wine in third-party countries and are in addition to the funds managed at the regional level.

Safety in the cellar: tragedy during must fermentation

In Partinico, near Palermo, a mother and her 22-year-old son were found dead in an underground cellar. According to initial reports, the death was related to fumes produced by the fermentation of must. The incident highlights the risks of enclosed spaces during winemaking and the need for adequate ventilation and safety procedures.

Ozone for sanitizing cellars

Among the technologies proposed for sanitizing winemaking environments, the use of ozone is growing, used for surfaces, environments, and wooden containers. Dedicated systems aim to reduce the use of chemicals, water consumption, and sanitization times.

WINE MARKET, TERRITORIES AND TRENDS

Brunello di Montalcino is featured in James Suckling’s Top 100

Eredi Fuligni’s 2021 Brunello di Montalcino takes first place in James Suckling’s 2026 Top 100 Wines of Italy . The selection includes a total of twelve Brunellos, all from the 2021 vintage, highlighting the appellation’s strong presence in the American critic’s ranking.

Franciacorta present with two Classic Method wines in the Top 100

The same international selection includes Barone Pizzini’s Riserva Bagnadore 2017 and Guido Berlucchi’s Cuvée Franco Ziliani Riserva 2011. These are the two Metodo Classico wines included in the Top 100 listed by the source.

Umbria: regional wine becomes more diverse

The 2027 Tre Bicchieri snapshot shows an increasingly diverse Umbrian winemaking landscape. Alongside traditional, structured reds, wines geared towards greater freshness and drinkability, characterful whites, and revitalized native varietals are emerging. Sagrantino is also experiencing a stylistic evolution toward more precise tannin management.

Conegliano Valdobbiadene: Territory, People, and the Future of the DOCG

A new column dedicated to Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG explores the Consortium’s work, viticulture, the UNESCO landscape, sustainability, research, and international promotion strategies. The goal is to showcase wine as an expression of a territorial and production system.

World Winery Map photographs the world’s terroir

The new World Winery Map platform lists over 4.3 million vineyards and more than 104,000 wineries in 90 countries , integrating information on altitude, exposure, slope, climate, and soil characteristics. Among the data reported, Calabrian vineyards are on average warmer during the growing season than those in Champagne.

BolognaFiere strengthens its presence in the wine and food sector

With its 49.9% stake in Gambero Rosso Holding , BolognaFiere strengthens its position in the wine and agri-food sector. This acquisition is part of a process that includes collaborations with Slow Wine, Slow Food, and FIVI, as well as events such as the Slow Wine Fair, the Independent Winemakers’ Market, and the Champagne Experience.

WINE TOURISM, CULTURE AND WINE-RELATED EVENTS

Franciacorta in Cantina Festival: estimated attendance of approximately 60,000

The 2026 edition of Franciacorta in Cantina involved 72 wineries with tastings, tours, and food events. According to initial estimates from the Consortium, attendance is expected to reach around 60,000 , confirming the growing importance of wine tourism for the region.

Turin’s Salone del Gusto: Great Italian Wines Take Center Stage

To celebrate Slow Food’s 40th anniversary , Turin hosts tastings, Taste Workshops, and meetings with leading Italian producers, including historic names like Gaja and Ceretto. The program focuses on wine, producers, local area, and food culture.

Slow Wine 2027: Presentation of the Snails

On October 17, 2026 , at SuperstudioMaxi in Milan, a tasting dedicated to the producers awarded by the Slow Wine 2027 guide will be held. The “Snails” identify wineries considered by the guide to be particularly representative of the organoleptic, territorial and environmental values promoted by Slow Food.

Cinque Terre: Conference on Vines, Landscape, and Biodiversity

On October 20th , the conference “Vine, Landscape, and Functional Biodiversity” will be held at the Cinque Terre Winery in Groppo di Riomaggiore. The meeting will focus on the historical and cultural value of heroic viticulture, ecological dynamics, and strategies for managing and conserving winegrowing territories.

Unusual Marsala 2026

From September 30th to October 4th, Insolito Marsala returns, with five days dedicated to wine, hospitality, culture, and the local area between Marsala, Trapani, Favignana, Paceco, and Erice. The program includes tastings, training sessions, tours, exhibitions, pop-up wine shops, and local experiences.

Grape and Cellar Festival on Giglio Island

From September 24th to 27th, 2026 , Giglio Castello will host the traditional Grape and Cellar Festival. Four days dedicated to local wines, food, music, and exploring the medieval village.

Vo’ Grape Festival

At the Grape Festival in Vo’, the Ragazzi della Porta Accanto group won first prize with their Peter Pan-inspired float “Growing Without Stopping Flying.” The event confirms the connection between popular culture, the grape harvest, and the local area.

Val di Fiemme and Cembra: wine, food, and wine to deseasonalise tourism

The Trentino valleys are focusing on an autumn calendar that combines food and wine, heroic viticulture, trekking, culture, and wellness . The goal is to extend the tourist season beyond the traditional summer and winter periods, showcasing local products and identities.

INTERNATIONAL, INNOVATION AND WINE EXPERIENCE

Coravin: the innovation created to help you drink a glass of wine without opening the bottle.

At Vinòforum 2026, Greg Lambrecht , founder of Coravin, recounted the birth of the system he designed in 1999 for dispensing wine without removing the cork. Born out of a personal need, the project has evolved into a technology used internationally by restaurants, sommeliers, and enthusiasts.

Technology, data, and climate are reshaping the future of wine.

From the Edmund Mach Foundation’s metabolomic atlas to geospatial vineyard maps, viticulture research is increasingly using climate, territorial, and scientific data . Climate change makes this information strategic for guiding varietal choices, vineyard management, and winemaking techniques.

PICTURE OF THE DAY

The review of 21 September 2026 highlights four directions that are characterising the wine sector: adaptation to climate change, evolution of consumption styles, growth of wine tourism and greater use of research and technology .

The early Barolo harvest and the experiences of Italian winemakers demonstrate how the climate is significantly impacting production. At the same time, the search for fresher, more balanced, and territorial wines is growing.

On the economic front, the €28.5 million in investments from the OCM Promotion confirms the centrality of international markets, while BolognaFiere’s strengthening of its wine & food presence signals a growing integration between wine, communications, trade fairs, and promotion.

Finally, the attendance recorded at local events and the success of events such as Franciacorta in Cantina confirm that the value of Italian wine is increasingly built through an integrated system of product, territory, hospitality, culture and experience .

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

See you tomorrow.

Wine press review for Sunday September 20-2026

with:

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

Good morning,

The main news from the world of wine selected and summarized by QUIDQUID : Italian wineries, the 2026 harvest, viticulture and oenology, international markets, investments and events.

ITALIAN WINERIES

San Donaci: Relaunching the Historic Candido Winery

In San Donaci, in the heart of Salento, the project to recover and relaunch the historic Cantina Candido , founded in 1929 and acquired by the Leo family, owners of Cantine Paolo Leo, is taking shape.

The project includes the recovery of native vines, the restoration of the historic site, the valorization of Negroamaro, Aleatico and Malvasia Nera, the promotion of the territory and the creation of a Wine Museum .

Colli di Luni: A new generation at Giacomelli

In Castelnuovo Magra, in the Colli di Luni area, Tommaso Petacchi continues the journey he began at a young age in the Giacomelli family business. At just 14, he asked his father Roberto for a small plot of land to cultivate on his own.

From that vineyard was born Tàoma , a personal project dedicated to Vermentino and a symbol of a generational change gradually built within the family business.

Suvereto: Ten Years for La Batistina

The La Batistina estate in Suvereto celebrates ten years of activity. Irene Batistini and Margherita Brogi have developed the family farm by renovating the land, the cellar, and the vineyards, and also initiating the conversion to organic farming.

Valtellina: La Trama is founded to reclaim family vineyards.

Three hectares of vineyards between Tresivio and Piateda become the starting point of La Trama , a new business founded by Mauro Beltrama, Laura Arena and Paolo Beltrama.

The project was born with the aim of preventing the abandonment of family vineyards. The first label, Trio – Rosso di Valtellina DOC , was produced in approximately 1,200 bottles.

Wildbacher: the historic grape variety of the Treviso Hills

At the Conte Collalto Winery in Susegana, the long Italian history of Wildbacher continues, a grape variety originally from Styria but present on the Treviso hills since the 18th century.

A centuries-old presence that has favored its adaptation to the soil and climate of the area, transforming it into one of the most unique varieties of the local viticultural heritage.

ITALIAN WINE AND OENOLOGY

2026 Harvest: Early Harvest in Calabria Due to Heat and Drought

In the Vibo Valentia area, the heat of summer 2026 significantly accelerated grape ripening. At Cantine Lacquaniti, Zibibbo was harvested as early as August , while some red grapes were harvested up to a month earlier than normal.

Added to the climatic difficulties is the pressure from wild fauna, particularly wild boars.

Langhe: harvest brought forward by about ten days

Even in the Langhe, the heat has altered the harvest calendar. According to the Consortium for the Protection of Barolo, Barbaresco, Alba, Langhe and Dogliani, the 2026 harvest will be about ten days earlier than in 2025.

Technical monitoring indicates good ripening of the grapes in terms of sugar, phenolic and acidity.

Viticulture increasingly at higher altitudes

Climate change is pushing part of Italian viticulture toward higher altitudes in search of cooler temperatures, temperature ranges, and more favorable conditions for ripening.

Altitude, however, is not a solution by itself: exposure, water availability, ventilation, soil characteristics and processing costs remain determining factors.

The Italian DOC turns 60

The Controlled Designation of Origin (DOP ), one of the fundamental tools for the protection and territorial identification of Italian wine, celebrates sixty years since its establishment. In Alba, the anniversary is also being commemorated with dedicated tastings.

Cellar Safety: Three People Rescued During a Decanting

In Cinquefrondi, Calabria, three people were rescued after falling ill inside a cellar where must had been decanted.

The episode draws attention to the risks associated with gases produced by fermentation and the need for ventilation, environmental monitoring, and safety procedures during cellar work.

Agriculture: Controls against illegal work

As part of the “Alt caporalato” project, the Territorial Labor Inspectorate of Grosseto and Siena carried out checks on agricultural companies, identifying 13 undeclared workers out of 17 verified positions .

Four companies were suspended and fines totaling approximately €60,000 were imposed for violations of labor, health, and safety regulations.

Bologna: Growing selection of natural wines

Bologna’s wine scene continues to diversify, with wine shops, wine bars, and boutiques dedicating greater space to artisanal wines and niche products.

The phenomenon highlights the evolution of urban consumption and the interest of a portion of the public in less conventional productions.

Tasting: technical quality and personal taste are not the same thing

A technically well-crafted wine doesn’t necessarily have to please everyone. Tasting distinguishes between technical evaluation and personal preference.

A simple but important principle: knowing wine also means developing your own taste without feeling obliged to share the opinion of experts.

Olive growing: over 800 olive trees from 32 countries in Gubbio

The scientific project Domus Olear∑ , promoted by the CNR-IBBR together with the Di Murro Agricultural Company, brings together over 800 olive trees from 32 countries in Gubbio.

The goal is to create an international living collection to study and conserve the genetic heritage of the olive tree.

INTERNATIONAL, MARKETS AND INVESTMENTS

Crédit Agricole acquires stake in Miraval Provence

Crédit Agricole has announced that it is taking a minority stake in Miraval Provence , a company linked to the winemaking and commercial activities of Château Miraval, the Provençal estate associated with Brad Pitt and the Famille Perrin.

According to Vitisphere, the investment would amount to 15 million euros . Brad Pitt would retain a 50% stake in the company.

This transaction represents a further example of institutional investors’ interest in wineries with strong real estate, territorial, and brand value.

China: How the wine market is changing

The Chinese wine market is undergoing a profound transformation in terms of consumption, size, and buyer profile.

An analysis promoted by Unione Italiana Vini , based on IWSR data, aims to identify the opportunities for Italian wine in the so-called “New China.” Despite the decline compared to past expectations, the market continues to be considered strategic from a medium- to long-term perspective.

Champagne: the climate modifies maturation and alcohol content

Higher temperatures are also affecting Champagne. The increased sugar accumulation in the grapes can result in wines with a potentially higher alcohol content.

A temporary exemption from the established limits has been authorized in France for the 2026 harvest, confirming how climate change is impacting even denominations characterized by particularly rigorous specifications.

Campari: Focus on Spritz, Ready-to-Drink, and International Expansion

According to the aforementioned UBS analysis, Campari is focusing on the growth of the Spritz category, the development of ready-to-drink products and geographical expansion.

Management has reportedly indicated organic sales growth of around 3% for 2026, in a still complex international spirits environment.

WINE TOURISM AND WINE-RELATED EVENTS

Prosecco Wine Route: Wine, Territory, and Experiential Tourism

The hills between Conegliano and Valdobbiadene continue to offer a popular destination for three- or four-day stays centered around wineries, tastings, villages, gastronomy, walks, and scenic heritage.

A model that confirms how wine is increasingly the starting point of a broader tourist experience.

Morbegno in the Cellar 2026

From 25 to 27 September, from 2 to 4 October and from 9 to 11 October , Morbegno hosts a new edition of Morbegno in Cantina .

The program features over 60 labels , tastings, and meetings with producers, AIS sommeliers, and ONAV tasters dedicated to the various expressions of Valtellina viticulture.

Unusual Marsala: five days of wine, food, and hospitality.

Starting September 30 , Marsala, Trapani, and the Egadi Islands will host five days of events dedicated to wine, catering, hospitality, and wine tourism.

The program includes over 40 events , including tastings, masterclasses, exhibitions, temporary wine shops, and gastronomic experiences.

Vino al Vino 2026 in Panzano in Chianti

From 18 to 20 September , Panzano in Chianti hosts the 31st edition of Vino al Vino , organised by the Panzano Winegrowers’ Union.

Over 80 labels from 22 wineries are available for tasting, including Chianti Classico and IGT. The area also has a strong environmental commitment: 95% of the vineyards are certified organic.

San Eusebio Grape Festival

The San Eusebio Grape Festival returns to Villa Angarano, Bassano del Grappa, from September 18 to 20, 2026 .

Three days dedicated to rural culture and the grape harvest, with tastings, traditional cuisine, music, children’s activities, grape pressing, and reenactments.

SELECTED WINE-GROWING OPPORTUNITIES – ETNA

A complete winery in the heart of Etna DOC

On the northern slope of Etna , between Solicchiata and Passopisciaro, an already operational winery of approximately 11 hectares is available for sale, including approximately 3 hectares of vineyards, 3 hectares of olive groves, cellar, buildings, equipment, registered trademark, stocks, authorisations and planting rights .

The vineyard includes approximately 2 hectares of Nerello Mascalese and 1 hectare of Carricante , as well as approximately one hectare of replanting/new planting rights.

Current production is around 14,000 bottles per year , with an indicative capacity of 20,000 bottles and a range of six labels.

A particularly interesting asset for producers, wine groups and investors who wish to enter Etna through an already operational company , with the possibility of further production, commercial and wine tourism development.

Wine-growing countryside with historic wine press from 1890

Also in the Etna area, an agricultural property of approximately 4 hectares is available, of which approximately 3.5 hectares could potentially be used as a vineyard , subject to technical-administrative verification.

A distinctive element is a Sicilian palmento from 1890 of approximately 600 m2 on three levels , to be renovated.

The asset could represent the basis for a new project that integrates viticulture, architectural restoration, a cellar, tastings, and possible rural hospitality , subject to the necessary authorizations.

THE WEEK’S SYNOPSIS

Today’s news shows a wine sector in transformation: the climate is bringing forward harvests and changing the areas best suited to wine production; companies are investing in the recovery of territorial identities; new generations are entering the cellar; wine tourism and hospitality are gaining importance; institutional investors are eyeing winemaking assets, and international markets are demanding increasingly selective strategies .

Wine therefore remains an agricultural product, but increasingly also a territory, a business, a heritage, tourism, a brand and an investment .

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

See you tomorrow.

Wine press review for Saturday September 19-2026

with:

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

Good morning,

The main news from the world of wine, wineries, viticulture, and markets: Italian companies, the 2026 harvest, exports, winemaking innovation, regions, guides, wine tourism, and events.

ITALIAN WINERIES

Muzic: four generations of winemakers in the Collio

In San Floriano del Collio, Friuli Venezia Giulia, the Muzic family continues a winemaking tradition that began in 1927. The company has grown steadily since purchasing the first five hectares in 1963, maintaining a strong family identity and a deep connection to the Ponca grape and the border region between the Italian Collio and Slovenian Brda.

Sarah Dei Tos: The Night Harvest Becomes the Object of Research

The nighttime harvest of Glera is included in a scientific study conducted with the University of Bolzano, CREA, and the Consortium for the Protection of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG. The research will analyze the effects of temperature, light, and environmental conditions on the aromatic characteristics of the grapes and the quality of work in the vineyard.

Candido: Brand Relaunch, New Wines, and Wine Museum

In San Donaci, Puglia, the Paolo Leo family continues the relaunch of the historic Candido Winery, acquired about a year and a half ago. The project includes renovating the headquarters, reclaiming the production spaces, redesigning the wines, and developing wine tourism with a new Wine Museum. The sale of historic labels has returned to profitability, with revenues up 33%.

Casanova di Neri: Brunello di Montalcino on the world markets

Founded in 1971, Casanova di Neri continues to build its international presence through a philosophy based on experience, understanding of the terroir, and style. Giacomo Neri continues the work begun by his father Giovanni, with wines designed to express territorial identity, elegance, and depth.

La Trama reclaims family vineyards in Valtellina

Mauro and Paolo Beltrama and Laura Arena created a new winery from approximately three hectares of vineyards between Tresivio and Piateda that were at risk of abandonment. The first wine, “Trio,” a Rosso di Valtellina DOC, was produced in approximately 1,200 bottles.

Le Macchiole: A 100% Syrah from the Bolgheri area

Scrio is a pure Syrah produced by Le Macchiole in approximately 4,000 bottles per year. This is a unique project for Bolgheri, a region known primarily for Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. Over time, the winery has modified its winemaking and aging process, seeking greater freshness, precision, and balance.

Carlo Cracco and Rosa Fanti: Agriculture, Wine, and Hospitality in Romagna

On the 18 hectares of Vistamare, in the hills of Romagna, Carlo Cracco and Rosa Fanti have developed a project that integrates an organic farm, vineyards, olive groves, and hospitality. Three old farmhouses have been renovated to create a small agriturismo nestled in the rural landscape.

ITALIAN WINE AND OENOLOGY

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

In July 2026, Italian wine exports to the United States grew by approximately 9.5-10% in value and 1.3% in volume. The average price increased by approximately 8%. This recovery reduces the cumulative decline seen in the first seven months, but according to the Italian Wine Union, it’s still too early to talk about a real reversal of the trend.

Strategic USA, but the market remains complex

According to an analysis by Banca Akros, the United States accounted for approximately 23% of the value of Italian wine exports in the first half of 2026. However, weak consumption, inflation, and growing competition from alternative categories such as sparkling wines, ready-to-drink cocktails, and hard tea remain.

CMO Sicilian Wine: 11 projects approved for non-EU markets

Eleven projects promoting Sicilian wine in third-party countries have been approved, totaling over €4 million in funding. The program finances up to 50% of the costs of advertising campaigns, international trade fairs, trade missions, incoming visitors, and market research.

Brazil: Growing interest in Italian wine

In the first half of 2026, Brazil imported Italian wine worth €20.1 million, an 8.1% increase compared to the same period in 2025. The market remains relatively small, but it represents one of the areas to monitor in the international diversification strategy of Italian wine.

Valtellina: more land, new subzones, and high-altitude vineyards

Valtellina boasts approximately 750 hectares of terraced vineyards, supported by over 2,500 kilometers of dry stone walls, with vines reaching altitudes of 800 meters. Approximately 90% of the vineyard area is devoted to Chiavennasca, the local name for Nebbiolo. The debate is moving toward an increasingly precise territorial definition and greater valorization of the subzones.

2026 Harvest in the Larian Lands: Early Harvest

The heat accelerated the growing season and significantly brought forward the harvest in the Terre Lariane IGT. The first sparkling wine bases were harvested in early August. The Consortium reports generally healthy grapes and positive initial quality results.

Viticulture: How to Propagate Grapevines by Cuttings

Grapevines can be propagated using one-year-old woody shoots. The recommended time for harvesting is during the vegetative dormancy period, generally between January and February. A cutting of about 30 centimeters should have at least three or four buds and come from a healthy, vigorous plant.

Harvest and training: in Lamezia Terme, the vineyard becomes a laboratory.

At the Professional Institute for Agriculture and Rural Development in Lamezia Terme, students participate directly in vineyard and winery activities. Harvesting is used as an educational experience, combining theoretical training, agricultural work, and knowledge of the local area.

Bibenda 2027: Over 700 Award-Winning Wineries

The 29th edition of Bibenda awards over 780 “5 Grappoli” recognitions to 701 wineries. Among the companies with three award-winning wines are Giacomo Conterno, Gaja, La Spinetta, Ca’ del Bosco, Cantina Terlano, and Fontodi. The presentation is scheduled for November 28th in Rome.

DoctorWine 2027: The selection of the best Italian wines continues.

The 2027 Essential Guide to Italian Wine continues to publish wines awarded the “DoctorWine Face.” The selections include, among other regions, Campania, Lazio, and Umbria. The guide will be presented in Milan on October 3rd.

Tre Bicchieri 2027: Spotlight on Sicilian Wines

The tastings dedicated to Sicily highlight the region’s great diversity: coastal vineyards, inland areas, hilly terrain, islands, and Mount Etna. The hot and dry year produced varying results depending on altitude, exposure, water availability, and soil characteristics.

INTERNATIONAL

Domaine de la Romanée-Conti 2022: nine Grand Crus for tasting

At Villa d’Este on Lake Como, Domaine de la Romanée-Conti’s entire 2022 portfolio was tasted: nine Grand Crus, including Échézeaux, Richebourg, La Tâche, Romanée-Conti, Montrachet, and Corton-Charlemagne. It was an exceptional opportunity to compare some of Burgundy’s most prestigious expressions.

Queen’s Roger Taylor signs a Côtes de Provence Rosé

The Queen drummer enters the world of wine with Queen Côtes de Provence Rosé. The project was developed with Sony Music, Watermill Wines, Les Caves du Commandeur, and Rupert Clevely. Taylor participated in defining the blend, concept, and bottle design.

Champagne: In Como, tasters will choose what to import.

On September 30th, Olmo Vini and Captain Drake are organizing a tasting for approximately 15 participants. Nine Champagnes from three French houses will be tasted, and participants will contribute to the selection of labels for future import.

WINE EVENTS AND WINE TOURISM

Great Wine Festival: 153 exhibitors from 29 countries

On September 26 and 27, Villa Farsetti in Santa Maria di Sala will host the 19th edition of the Grande Festa del Vino. 153 exhibitors from 29 countries, 132 wineries, approximately 420 labels and 8,000 bottles are expected, along with tastings, masterclasses, and a food court.

Welcome Brunello 2026 meets Vespa

The 2026 Benvenuto Brunello commemorative tile will be dedicated to Vespa, marking the 80th anniversary of the historic Piaggio scooter. The 2026 Benvenuto Brunello event will take place in Montalcino from November 19th to 23rd.

Pizzolato celebrates 45 years

The Pizzolato winery is celebrating 45 years of business by opening its doors to the public. The program includes tastings, food specials, DJ sets, and activities, including those for families, while keeping the company’s history and commitment to organic production at its core.

Gessopalena: Rare Native Grape Varieties Take Center Stage

The “Gli Irrepetibili” (Unrepeatable) tour offers tastings of micro-vinifications made from local varietals and ecotypes from the Abruzzo mountains. The Bio Cantina Sociale Orsogna project aims to preserve viticultural biodiversity and promote ancient varietals.

Cartizze: wine, landscape, and trekking

The Anello del Cartizze offers a route through the vineyards, villages, and hills of Conegliano Valdobbiadene. The itinerary combines landscapes, outdoor activities, food and wine, and the discovery of Cartizze DOCG, strengthening the connection between wine and tourism.

Merano WineFestival looks to Brazil

The Merano WineFestival is heading to São Paulo at a time when Brazil is showing growing interest in Italian wine, gastronomy, and lifestyle. The initiative is part of the search for new international markets and the growing relationship between wine promotion and tourism.

THE PICTURE OF THE WEEK

The news of September 19th shows an Italian wine sector engaged on multiple fronts. Exports to the United States are showing initial positive signs, but remain under pressure; Brazil is emerging as a market to watch; wineries are investing in identity, terroir, wine tourism, and new hospitality models; research and innovation are increasingly entering the vineyard, from night harvesting to the promotion of native varieties.

At the same time, the importance of the territory as a distinctive element is growing: Collio, Valtellina, Bolgheri, Montalcino, Sicily, Etna and the Prosecco Hills confirm that the value of Italian wine increasingly depends on the ability to connect product, origin, experience and story .

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

See you tomorrow.

Wine press review for Friday September 18-2026

with:

Italian wineries, Italian wine producers and today’s wine news.
Good morning,

Markets, wineries, exports, innovation, regions, and events: a summary of the key news shaping the Italian and international wine world.

ITALIAN WINERIES

Berlucchi renews its Nature line

Berlucchi is transforming its historic ’61 Nature line into Vintage Nature , strengthening its position in the reserve segment. The vintage Franciacortas in the line mature on the lees for over five years and include the 2020 Vintage Nature Terroir, the 2019 Blanc de Blancs, and the 2019 Rosé de Noirs.

Fattoria La Maliosa: a new winery nestled in the Maremma landscape.

In Saturnia, Fattoria La Maliosa has inaugurated a winery designed to blend into the landscape with minimal visual impact. The winemaking spaces are mostly underground, and the roof has been transformed into a garden. The estate now extends over approximately 170 hectares .

Caiarossa: Biodynamics and an International Vision in Tuscany

Located in Riparbella, in the Cecina Valley, Caiarossa represents an intriguing blend of Tuscan tradition and international culture. The estate encompasses approximately 100 hectares, 40 of which are vineyards . Since 2004, it has been owned by the Dutch Albada Jelgersma family, who have continued to develop the project while maintaining its territorial and biodynamic identity.

Candido: Relaunching the Historic Apulian Winery

A year and a half after acquiring Candido , the Paolo Leo family presents the first results of its relaunch project: renovation of the historic San Donaci headquarters, new production spaces, a revamped product line, and development of wine tourism. Marketing of the winery’s historic wines has returned to profitability, with revenue growth projected at 33% .

Solopaca Winery: 60 Years of Cooperation

The Solopaca Winery celebrates its sixtieth anniversary. Founded in 1966 by 25 winemakers, it represents a historic example of cooperation aimed at promoting local grapes and strengthening producers’ bargaining power.

Moser: new generation and family continuity

The Moser family winery in Trentino continues its generational journey. Ignazio Moser combines family tradition with a growing focus on research, innovation, and brand development, maintaining the Metodo Classico as a key aspect of production.

Passo delle Tortore: Wine, Women, and Family in Irpinia

In Pietradefusi, in the province of Avellino, Passo delle Tortore is a winemaking project with a strong female leadership. Four women in the family, along with winemaker Francesco De Pierro, are transforming a family legacy into a contemporary project rooted in the identity of Irpinia.

Delibori Cellars: Recognition for Alta Corte Lugana

Cantine Delibori’s Alta Corte Lugana 2025 received 90 Falstaff points in Ulrich Sautter’s 2026 evaluation.

ITALIAN WINE AND ITALIAN OENOLOGY

Italian exports: first half of 2026 still difficult

In the first six months of 2026, Italian wine exports reached approximately 3.6 billion euros , with a contraction of 6.2% in value and 4% in volume compared to the same period in 2025.

Sparkling wines show greater staying power: around 1 billion euros of exports , 0.4% in value, with 252.2 million litres exported (-0.7%).

Regional Exports: Italy at Two Speeds

Veneto remains the leading exporting region with approximately 1.3 billion euros , despite an 8.4% decline. Piedmont grew by 2.4% to 566 million euros, surpassing Tuscany , which fell to 543 million (-7.4%).

Declines were also recorded in Lombardy, Trentino-Alto Adige, Abruzzo, Sicily, Marche, Campania, Lazio, Umbria, and Sardinia.

United States: A positive sign arrives in July

After a difficult few months, Italian wine exports to the United States rebounded in July: 9.5% in value and 1.3% in quantity , according to EU Commission data processed by the UIV Observatory. The average price also rose by 8%.

The monthly figure represents a signal to follow in the coming months, without erasing the weakness recorded in the first half of the year.

Primitivo di Manduria: bottlings on the rise, but pricing remains a sticking point.

Bottlings increased by 6% for Primitivo PGI and 12.6% for Primitivo di Manduria PDO . The Consortium emphasizes, however, that the growth in bottled wine does not automatically lead to an increase in grape prices. Inventories and winegrowers’ remuneration therefore remain key issues.

Sicily: Concerns Over Unsold Wine and Costs

The situation of Sicilian cooperative wineries has come to the attention of the Sicilian Regional Assembly’s Productive Activities Commission. Among the problems reported: wine still to be sold, rising costs and financial burdens, declining consumption, and commercial difficulties .

Interest in low-alcohol wines is growing

Naturally low-alcohol wines are attracting increasing attention in Italy and international markets. However, the industry is calling for more precise definitions to distinguish naturally low-alcohol wines from dealcoholized products.

Italian sparkling wines and climate change

Following the Comité Champagne’s decision to raise the maximum permitted alcohol content from 13% to 15%, the debate has also affected Italy. In the Oltrepò Pavese area, according to data cited by the Consortium, the average alcohol content has remained around 12.3-12.4% since 2018, indicating very different conditions than in Champagne.

Training: The Wine Business Program is back

Italia del Vino, together with Luiss Business School, is relaunching the Wine Business Program 2026 , aimed primarily at young undergraduates and graduates. The goal is to bridge the gap between academic training and the skills required by wine businesses.

Adriano Zago: 25 years of agronomy, oenology, and biodynamics

Agronomist, oenologist, coach, and trainer, Adriano Zago has been working in agronomic and oenological consulting for 25 years in Italy, Europe, and the United States. Over the course of his career, he has supported over 150 companies , working on the entire production process and introducing the biodynamic approach, even in large-scale wineries.

INTERNATIONAL

Global exports: different strategies between France, Argentina, Chile, and Spain

The first half of 2026 showed very different situations among the main producing countries. Argentina increased export volumes by 16.3% and value by 4.2%, but with an average price reduction of 10.4%.

Chile and Spain, on the other hand, had to deal with smaller harvests and consequent different price dynamics.

France: Axel Heinz talks about the challenges of winemaking

Winemaker Axel Heinz , after almost 18 years at Ornellaia and now at Château Lascombes, describes a particularly complex French context for wine, citing advertising constraints, generational changes and growing attention to health aspects.

Champagne and alcohol content

The Comité Champagne has raised the maximum permitted alcohol content from 13% to 15%, a measure linked to the particularly hot weather conditions of the year. The decision reopens the international debate on the impact of climate change on viticulture and production styles.

TERRITORIES, WINE TOURISM AND NEW TRENDS

September: Italy’s wine region is revealed during the grape harvest

The grape harvest continues to be one of the most attractive times to experience Italy’s wine regions firsthand. The Langhe, Tuscany, Veneto, Friuli, Sicily, and other areas of the country transform the harvest period into an opportunity for experiential tourism.

Langhe: wine, landscape, and hospitality

The Langhe , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, demonstrates the power of the interplay between vineyards, villages, gastronomy, and hospitality. Barolo, Barbaresco, Nebbiolo, Barbera, Dolcetto, Arneis, and Moscato become part of a broader regional experience beyond mere tasting.

From wine to beauty care

In Guagnano, Salento, Cantina Moros by Masseria Surani offers “RADICATE,” an experience that combines wine, art, and botanical cosmetics. Grapes and pomace are enhanced as ingredients for skincare products, showcasing new uses for byproducts of the winemaking industry.

Wine and Sports: Prosecco DOC and Asti DOCG Focus on Volleyball

The relationship between wine denominations and sports continues. The Prosecco DOC Consortium is partnering with Imoco Volley Conegliano, while the Asti DOCG Consortium becomes the official sponsor of Reale Mutua Fenera Chieri ’76 for the 2026-2027 season.

WINE EVENTS

September 19 – La Viarte, Eastern Hills of Friuli

In Prepotto, a day dedicated to wine, music, food, and contemporary art . Artist Gianpaolo Pagni will create a limited edition of labels live, accompanied by tastings and music.

September 19 – Vinetica and Alta Langa Day, Ferrara

At Castello Estense, 35 wineries from the Alta Langa DOCG Consortium will be the protagonists, with tasting tables and masterclasses dedicated to Blanc de Blancs and Blanc de Noirs.

September 20 – Vo’ Grape Festival

In Vo’, in the Euganean Hills, the traditional Grape Float parade returns, with events at 3:30 pm and 8:30 pm.

September 20 – Open Cellars for Harvest in Tuscia

Poggio Bbaranèllo , in Montefiascone, opens its winery for the End of Harvest Festival: meetings with winemakers, tours of the production facilities, and tastings in the Lake Bolsena area.

September 26 – Walk through the Boca vineyards

The walk through the Boca vineyards returns to the Novara area, included in the national project of Collective Agricultural Identity itineraries.

September 26 – ROOTED in Salento

At Cantina Moros, wine, pomace, botanical cosmetics, art, and sustainability take center stage in an experience dedicated to the integral valorization of the raw materials.

September 30–October 4 – Unusual Marsala 2026

Five days between Marsala, Trapani, and the Egadi Islands , with over 40 events dedicated to wine, gastronomy, hospitality, culture, and communication.

October 25–26 – Taste Alto Piemonte in Giardini Naxos

The Consorzio Tutela Nebbioli Alto Piemonte brings Alto Piemonte wines to Sicily with tastings and meetings aimed at professionals, the press, and wine enthusiasts.

October 25–26 – Gambero Rosso celebrates 40 years in Rome

At La Nuvola in Rome, Gambero Rosso will celebrate forty years of activity with two days dedicated to great wines, cuisine, pizza, regions, and the transformation of taste.

THE PICTURE OF THE WEEK

The news of September 18th shows a wine sector in a phase of strong transformation.

Italian exports remain under pressure , but sparkling wines are proving more resilient, and the first signs of recovery are coming from the United States in July. At the same time, inventory levels, grape prices, and cooperatives’ difficulties confirm that managing volumes and profitability remains key.

On the business front, other important signals are emerging: brand repositioning, investments in wineries, generational turnover, training of new skills, wine tourism and diversification of the wine-related experience .

Italian wine, therefore, no longer competes solely through its bottle. Territory, brand, hospitality, sustainability, communication, innovation, and commercial prowess are becoming part of the same development model.

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

See you tomorrow.