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Wine press review for Sunday September 27-2026

with:

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

Good morning,

Wine Idea presents the main news from the world of wine, wineries, oenology, and wine tourism in Italy and abroad.

ITALIAN WINERIES

Cantine 4 Valli acquires 80% of Piacenza-based winery

Robert Addis, an American from Philadelphia, and Francesca Carini, originally from Piacenza, have acquired 80% of Cantine 4 Valli , one of the largest wineries in the province of Piacenza.

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 maintain operational roles. Stefano Perini will remain CEO, ensuring management continuity.

The 120 largest Italian wine companies are worth over 9 billion

The 120 main Italian wineries represent 64.3% of the sector’s national turnover, 66.8% of exports, and 61.2% of the domestic market.

In 2025, they achieved a total revenue of over 9 billion euros , down 1.4%, with exports of 5.2 billion (-1.9%) and sales on the Italian market of 3.8 billion (-0.6%).

The sample includes 80 private companies and 40 cooperatives . Among the new entrants is Perlino, with a turnover of €56.7 million. Vite Colte recorded €22.9 million, Cantina di Ruvo di Puglia €11 million, and Domini Castellare di Castellina €10.3 million.

Among the transactions of the year, the acquisition of Arnaldo Caprai by Angelini Wines & Estates is also noteworthy.

Le Monde: 120 hectares and a sustainable viticulture

In Prata di Pordenone, the Le Monde winery has approximately 120 hectares of vineyards , divided into six plots, with 14 varieties grown.

Since 2015, the company has adhered to the SQNPI certification and focuses on integrated viticulture and wines capable of enhancing the Friuli region.

La Falchetta: From a Management Career to Wine Production

Tanno Vos and Paola Daniele left their respective managerial careers to develop a winemaking project in Mombercelli, in the Monferrato area of Asti .

Their experience reveals an interesting trend: managerial and entrepreneurial skills from other sectors are entering the world of wine with new development and positioning models.

Ronco dei Tassi relaunches a historic Cividale shop

The historic Antica Drogheria Scubla , now Scubla 1921 – Dispensa Friulana, reopens in Cividale del Friuli.

The project is promoted by Enrico Coser, owner with his family of the Ronco dei Tassi winery in Cormòns, and aims to combine memory, local products, and contemporary gastronomy.

ITALIAN WINE AND OENOLOGY

PiemonteIs: a unique brand for regional excellence

Piedmont strengthens the link between territory, wine and agri-food with PiemonteIs , designated as the first Italian regional brand designed to jointly identify DOP, IGP and other Piedmontese excellences.

The goal is to increase recognition of Piedmontese origins and transform wine and food into ambassadors of the region.

Alto Adige: growing specialization between grape variety and terroir

Alto Adige viticulture continues to move toward greater territorial specialization. The 86 subzones identify the areas considered most suited to specific varieties.

Producers and cooperatives are increasingly focusing their attention on vineyards and wines capable of expressing a distinct territorial identity, with longer aging periods for the most ambitious labels.

Romagna: Heat and drought reduce harvests in the hills

According to Confcooperative Romagna-Estense, the heat and drought of the summer of 2026 have caused losses of up to 20% of the grapes in some hilly areas.

High temperatures, alternating drought and heavy rainfall, and early ripening are changing harvest times and methods. Investment, innovation, and collaboration are becoming increasingly important for the sector.

Trentodoc: 74 producers and 12.2 million bottles

Trentodoc currently has 74 associated producers , seven more than in 2025.

Production reaches approximately 12.2 million bottles per year , with an estimated turnover of approximately 180 million euros . The area also aims to strengthen its position as a national wine tourism destination.

Wine: the story becomes part of the value

An increasingly central theme emerges from the Trentodoc Festival: wine is no longer evaluated solely through technical parameters or scores.

Territory, producer, history, experience in the cellar, and communication skills are becoming increasingly important components in building the perceived value of a label.

Macerated white wines and amphorae: a return to ancient techniques

In Giulianova, Assosommelier Abruzzo dedicated a tasting to macerated white wines and vinification in amphora .

Ancient techniques, reminiscent of the Georgian tradition of kvevri, are returning to the center of contemporary winemaking interest for their structure, complexity, and expressiveness.

Before the bubble cage there was string

Before the introduction of modern wire cages, the corks of sparkling wine bottles were secured with string .

In Champagne there was even a specialized figure, the ficeleur , responsible for manually tying the corks to counteract the internal pressure of the bottle.

INTERNATIONAL

United Kingdom: Climate change boosts wine growth

Rising temperatures are changing the geography of European viticulture.

While several traditional areas are facing heat, drought and early harvests, the UK is developing more favourable conditions for wine production, particularly for sparkling wines.

The phenomenon shows how climate change can progressively modify production areas, cultivated varieties, and the international competitiveness of wine.

WINE TOURISM AND WINE TERRITORIES

Valtènesi: 24 wineries featured in Profumi di Mosto

Profumi di Mosto returns on October 4th , an event dedicated to the Valtènesi and the Brescian Riviera of Garda.

24 wineries will be involved, with tastings, visits and nine thematic itineraries dedicated to the relationship between wine, landscape and producers.

Valpolicella: 27 wineries combining wine, art, and territory

Val Polis Cellae returns on October 11th , organised by the Strada del Vino Valpolicella.

The 27 participating wineries will be included in six itineraries including tastings, visits, art, crafts, and local gastronomy.

Sicily: Autumn Returns to the Cellar

From 3 to 25 October 2026, Autunno in Cantina returns, an initiative promoted by IRVO to promote Sicilian wine tourism after the harvest.

Seven wineries will accompany visitors on a journey through different parts of the island, from southeastern Sicily to Mount Etna, from the Nebrodi to the Madonie mountains, all the way to western Sicily.

Salento: wine, territory, and hospitality

Masseria Borgo dei Trulli, in the Maruggio area between Manduria and the Ionian coast, represents an example of integration between wine, landscape and tourist experience .

The company works organically and has 55 hectares of vineyards , 16 of which are trained as bush vines, combining production with visits and tastings.

Wine villages strengthen Italy’s tourism offering

From Barolo to Montalcino and Brisighella, the small towns linked to the major Italian denominations confirm the growing interest in a tourism that combines wine, landscape, history, gastronomy and visits to the cellars .

WINE EVENTS

Morbegno in the Cellar 2026

The Valtellina event continues for three weekends: 25-27 September, 2-4 October and 9-11 October .

The wines of Valtellina, from Sforzato to Valtellina Superiore, will take center stage, along with tastings and tours of the historic center.

Glasses in the Villa 2026 in Zero Branco

On October 10th and 11th , Villa Guidini in Zero Branco will host the sixth edition of Calici in Villa .

The program includes Metodo Martinotti and Metodo Classico sparkling wines, wines, spirits, and food, with over 150 wines offered on Sunday.

Between Villages and Cellars: Nine Events in Siena

Tra Borghi e Cantine returns for autumn 2026, with nine dinners in the villages of the province of Siena.

Wineries, restaurateurs, and DOC and DOCG denominations will be the protagonists of a journey that will accompany the public towards Wine&Siena 2027.

Trentodoc Festival: bubbles and wine tourism

Three days of tastings, masterclasses, and winery events brought attention to the role of Trentodoc as a symbolic product of the region and a driving force for the development of Trentino wine tourism.

Alpine cheeses and Trentodoc

At Palazzo Roccabruna, a tasting compared five mountain cheeses of varying ages with different expressions of Trentodoc, exploring balance, acidity, flavor, persistence, and structure in the pairings.

THE PICTURE OF THE WEEK

Today’s news highlights four important transformations in Italian wine .

The sector continues to focus: acquisitions and corporate transactions show a growing interest in structured companies, brands and wine estates.

At the same time, climate and harvest are becoming strategic variables : the decline in yields in some Italian areas and the growth of viticulture in more northern countries indicate that the European production geography is changing.

The third element is the territory . Appellation, landscape, history, and local identity are increasingly important in the positioning of wine.

Finally, the importance of wine tourism is growing: wineries, tastings, villages, gastronomy, hospitality and events are increasingly integrated into a single experience.

Wine is no longer just what’s in the bottle. Its value increasingly stems from the combination of product, territory, story, experience, and the company’s ability to position itself on the market.

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

See you tomorrow.

Wine press review for Saturday September 26-2026

with:

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

Good morning,

Wine Idea presents the main news from the world of wine, wineries, oenology, and wine tourism in Italy and abroad.

ITALIAN WINERIES

Italian Wine Brands: Revenues Down, Top Brands Up

Italian Wine Brands closed the first half of 2026 with revenues of 175.3 million euros , down 5.31% compared to the same period in 2025. Adjusted EBITDA stood at 19.1 million (-12.8%) and net profit at 7.9 million (-23.9%).

The financial position, however, improved, with net debt falling to 81.8 million euros , 8.7 million less than in June 2025.

The group reports a still complex international market, affected by weak consumption, high inventories, geopolitical tensions, and commercial uncertainty, but highlights the growth and enhancement of its proprietary brands.

4 Valli Wineries: Francesca Carini and Robert Addis appointed new majority

Change of control for Cantine 4 Valli , a major Piacenza winery with over 10 million bottles produced each year and exports to more than 30 countries.

The majority stake is transferred to Francesca Carini and Robert Addis , while the Ferrari and Perini families retain a stake and operational roles. Stefano Perini remains CEO.

The operation aims at business continuity and a new phase of international development.

Paolo Leo Winery: Growth, Relaunch of Candido, and the Wine Museum Project

The Leo family is preparing a new phase of development for Cantine Paolo Leo , a Puglia-based company that in 2025 achieved a turnover of approximately 25 million euros , with growth of 4.5% on the Italian market and 15% abroad.

The project involves the new generation of the family in the commercial, winemaking, marketing and purchasing areas and includes the relaunch of Candido and the development of a Wine Museum .

Salento: wine, territory, and hospitality at Masseria Borgo dei Trulli

Located in Maruggio, between Manduria and the Ionian coast, Masseria Borgo dei Trulli represents an example of integration between wine production, territory, and wine tourism experience.

The company practices organic farming and has 55 hectares of vineyards , 16 of which are bush-trained. A winery, vineyards, olive groves, Saracen trulli, and a restored 18th-century farmhouse combine to create an offering that blends wine and hospitality.

ITALIAN WINE AND OENOLOGY

Italian Wines: 19 Labels in Wine Enthusiast’s Top 100 Best Buys 2026

19 Italian wines have been included in Wine Enthusiast’s “Top 100 Best Buys 2026.”

The international selection rewards wines with a price no higher than 20 dollars and at least 86 points, placing the focus on value for money , an increasingly important element in a phase characterized by weak consumption and greater attention to spending.

Aosta Valley: the case of Petit Arvine grown at high altitude

Aosta Valley viticulture highlights an interesting theme linked to climate change and regulations.

Petit Arvine grown at altitudes above the limits established in some municipalities cannot use the DOC, while other varieties can be grown higher.

Limits originally created for agronomic reasons are now being tested by climate change: higher temperatures are in fact altering the ripeness, acidity, and alcohol content of grapes even near 1,000 meters.

Quick Analysis: More Data to Help You Make Decisions in the Cellar

From harvest to bottling, the importance of rapidly accessing data on the composition of grapes, musts, and wines grows.

Among the technologies used is FT-IR spectroscopy , which allows for the rapid measurement of various oenological parameters, including alcohol content, reducing the use of reagents.

Modern winemaking is moving toward increasingly rapid, sustainable tools that can be used directly in winery operations, supported by predictive models.

Pinot Grigio: an award to bring research and innovation to the supply chain.

The DOC Delle Venezie Consortium has established the “Giuseppe Catarin” Award, dedicated to university theses on the wine sector of Veneto, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, and the Autonomous Province of Trento.

Eligible topics include viticulture, oenology, sustainability, climate change, economics, marketing, wine law, tourism, landscape, and technological and digital innovation.

Applications are due by November 16, 2026 .

Agea: New payments also for the wine sector

Since 1 January 2026, Agea has disbursed a total of approximately 2.95 billion euros to the agricultural sector.

For the wine sector, 4.7 million euros have been allocated to the Investment measure , to which are added resources for the restructuring and reconversion of vineyards, balances, advances and sureties.

Agritourism and wine tourism continue to grow

Rural tourism continues to attract tourists. In 2025, Trentino-Alto Adige ranked second in Italy for agritourism stays, after Tuscany.

Veneto is also growing: 1.4 million visitors in 2025 , 28.8% more than the pre-pandemic period, with 1,738 active facilities.

The data reinforces the strategic role of hospitality and wine tourism in the economic development of agricultural and winemaking businesses.

Chianti Classico: wine, hospitality, and slow tourism

Autumn relaunches the Chianti Classico wine tourism offering, where wine, gastronomy, landscape, walking and cycling routes, and accommodations become part of a single experience.

The Castello di Fonterutoli Wine Resort represents an example of the integration of historical heritage, wine production, and hospitality.

INTERNATIONAL

European Union: Over a billion euros a year for wine

The European Union allocates approximately €1.061 billion per year to the wine sector through the Common Agricultural Policy.

The resources finance investments, promotion, vineyard renovation, and crop insurance.

At the same time, European health policies are pushing for a reduction in alcohol consumption. The sector is therefore at the center of a conflict between its agricultural, economic, territorial, and export weight and public health policy objectives.

Grape harvest in France: very different working conditions

The experiences of some Italian women workers involved in the French grape harvest show very different economic and logistical conditions from one company to another.

The theme draws attention to the management of seasonal labor , which is increasingly important for the social sustainability of the European wine sector.

Ticino: lower production but good quality expectations for 2026

In Italian-speaking Switzerland, the 2026 harvest was affected by intense heat, drought, thunderstorms and hailstorms .

Yields are lower, while quality expectations remain high. Sugar accumulation has been significant, and several harvests were brought forward, particularly for sparkling wines and white Merlot.

The Ticino case confirms how climate change is impacting vineyard management and harvest dates.

EVENTS, GUIDES AND WINE TOURISM

Wines of Italy 2027: National Preview in Asti

On October 1st, Asti will host the national preview of the Gambero Rosso 2027 Italian Wine Guide.

This edition coincides with the guide’s fortieth anniversary and will pay particular attention to new generations of producers. The official presentation is scheduled for Rome on October 25th.

DoctorWine presents 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 .

Tuscany is among the featured regions, with numerous labels selected through the guide’s evaluation system.

Sicily: “Autumn in the Cellar” returns

From October 3 to 25, 2026, “Autumn in the Cellar” returns, a project promoted by IRVO to extend the Sicilian wine tourism season beyond the summer.

Seven stages are planned between Vittoria, Butera, Castiglione di Sicilia, Furnari, Castelbuono, Sambuca di Sicilia and Marsala.

The initiative brings together wineries, regions, tastings, and landscapes, strengthening Sicily’s position as a year-round wine tourism destination.

America’s Cup: Wine joins Campania’s international promotion program

In view of the 38th America’s Cup , scheduled to take place in Naples from 10 to 18 July 2027, the Campania Region has launched the “Vento di Campania – Road Tour” project.

The goal is to use the event’s international visibility to promote Campania’s regions, agri-food products, wines, landscapes, and cultural heritage.

Malvasia Without Borders: A Comparison of Piedmont and Friuli-Venezia Giulia

The “Malvasia senza confini” project offers a tasting dedicated to the different interpretations of Malvasia, with wines from Piedmont and Friuli-Venezia Giulia.

The initiative involves Chambers of Commerce, Protection Consortia, and industry professionals, with the aim of illustrating the territorial and productive diversity of this family of grape varieties.

Pinot Noir and truffles: Oltrepò Pavese showcases its excellence.

La Genisia dedicates two days to the meeting between Pinot Noir and Oltrepò Pavese truffle , bringing together two products strongly linked to the territory.

An example of how wine, gastronomy, and experiences can contribute to building a recognizable wine tourism destination.

Slow Edition Wines & Vinyls Lake Como

“Vini & Vinili Slow Edition Lake Como” is scheduled for December 13, 2026 , an event dedicated to natural wine, music, and local products.

Around 20 winemakers have announced their participation, along with food producers and operators linked to the vinyl culture.

RESERVED OPPORTUNITIES – AGRICULTURAL ESTATES 24

Four Italian assets combining wine, territory, and hospitality.

Asolo – Veneto: Historic 17th-century complex in the center of Asolo, with 16 rooms and spaces for hospitality, events, meetings, and cultural initiatives.

Friuli-Venezia Giulia: a castle with approximately 28 hectares of property, over 20 hectares of vineyards, 16 rooms, a swimming pool, and hospitality services. Integrated asset for wine production, events, and a wine resort.

Chianti Classico – Tuscany: approximately 120-hectare estate near Florence, with 15.2 hectares of vineyards, approximately 17 hectares of olive groves, a cellar, a historic villa, farmhouses, and potential for revitalization of production and wine tourism.

Barolo – Piedmont: a boutique winery with approximately 2.2 hectares of vineyards, a modernized cellar, Barolo DOCG production, and a tasting room. This asset focuses on limited production and a premium positioning.

IN SUMMARY

The day highlights several important signs for the sector: a still-challenging wine market in terms of consumption, growing attention to brands and value for money, consolidation and corporate transfers in wineries, the growth of wine tourism and hospitality, and the growing impact of climate change on viticulture.

Alongside wine production , territory, experience, direct sales, technology, commercial capacity and brand positioning are becoming increasingly important.

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

See you tomorrow.

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 .

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