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Wine press review for Thursday October 8-2026

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

Good morning,

Wine market, Italian wineries, enology, international consumption, and events: QUIDQUID presents the main news from the wine sector, with a summary of the facts, economic data, and trends of interest to producers, companies, traders, and investors.

1. Italian wineries

Corte Adami: 40 hectares between Soave and Valpolicella

The Adami family’s Verona-based winery, founded as a grape supplier, has been vinifying its entire production independently since 2017. With 40 hectares of vineyards and approximately 170,000 bottles annually, it showcases the Soave and Valpolicella appellations. Among its signature wines is the Soave Classico Cimalta 2024, made from Garganega grapes.

Alto Adige: over 70% of wine comes from cooperatives

The Alto Adige wine cooperative represents a model of agricultural organization based on quality, collaboration, and the promotion of small producers. From the historic wineries of Andriano and Terlano, founded in the late 19th century, the system has developed into an international benchmark.

Cantina Puiatti presents Sconfine, its first blend.

In Romans d’Isonzo, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Cantina Puiatti introduces Sconfine, a Friuli Bianco DOC made from Chardonnay, Friulano, and Sauvignon. It’s the company’s first blend after over fifty years of making single varietals.

Tenuta Santa Maria: History and Amarone in the Valpolicella Classica

In Arbizzano di Negrar, the estate of brothers Giovanni and Guglielmo Bertani preserves an ancient 22-hectare orchard, 14 of which are vineyards. Among their products, the Amarone Brolo dei Poeti stands out, aged for fourteen years in barrels. A winemaking heritage with documented roots dating back to the 16th century.

Mamoiada: the quality Cannonau region is growing.

In the heart of Barbagia, Mamoiada has become a benchmark for Sardinian Cannonau. The area boasts approximately thirty professional wineries for a population of 2,400, as well as numerous family-run wineries. The Mamojà association, founded in 2015, has contributed to the qualitative growth and visibility of the producers.

San Felice: Wine, hospitality, and historical heritage in the Chianti Classico area

In Castelnuovo Berardenga, San Felice combines wine production, a medieval village, a resort, restaurants, and wine tourism. It’s an example of integrated valorization of agricultural, real estate, and tourism assets.

Rocca di Frassinello: When architecture enhances the cellar

In Maremma, the winery designed by Renzo Piano represents a perfect blend of contemporary architecture, winemaking, and tourism. The spectacular underground barrel cellar and dedicated tour areas reinforce the company’s identity and the region’s appeal.

Tenuta Rosaneti: The Librandi family’s story of Calabrian viticulture

The historic Rocca di Neto estate opens to visitors during the FAI Autumn Days. A tour of the vineyards will allow visitors to learn about Calabria’s agricultural heritage, history, and viticulture traditions.

2. Italian wine and Italian oenology

Valoritalia: bottlings almost stable, but inventories are increasing

In the first nine months of 2026, bottlings certified by Valoritalia reached 9.86 million hectoliters, a 3% decrease compared to 2025. The third quarter limited the decline to 0.3%, while September recorded an increase of 4.9%.

In the quarter, DOC (5%) and DOCG (4.9%) grew, while IGT wines lost 18.9%. White and sparkling wines showed greater stability than red wines.

The stock situation remains critical: as of July 31, within the monitored area, it reached 15.96 million hectoliters, 16.8% more than the previous year. The data refers to production certified by the agency and not the entire national market.

Piedmont: €1.5 million to support unsold wine

The Piedmont Region is allocating €1.5 million to promote supply chain agreements, collaboration between businesses, and new market outlets. The goal is to reduce inventory without devaluing the wineries’ production assets.

Wine and Consumers: New Commercial Strategies Needed

According to Federico Gordini, organizer of Milan Wine Week, the revival of wine depends on catering, education, communication, winery hospitality, and the ability to interpret new consumer habits. It’s not enough to produce quality: you need to know how to present and sell it.

Seven Sauvignon Blancs: The Value of Vineyard Differences

A study published in Il Corriere Vinicolo Vite analyzes seven Sauvignons from the same vintage, sourced from different vineyards. Over 3,000 observations and blind tastings demonstrate how measurable differences between wines are not always easily discernible to consumers. A reflection on the relationship between terroir, scientific analysis, and marketing communication.

Merano WineFestival: Four Italian wines earn 100/100

For the first time, the WineHunter Award Platinum awards the maximum score to four labels:

Vernaccia di Oristano Riserva 1998 – Attilio Contini.
Rarity 2013 – Cantina Terlano.
Vin Santo di Montepulciano Occhio di Pernice 2012 – Avignonesi.
Perlé 2002 – Ferrari Trento.

A recognition of the longevity, quality, and ability of great Italian wines to evolve over time.

Giuseppe Cristini: Telling Wine Through People and Regions

Giuseppe Cristini, a communicator and journalist from the Marche region, emphasizes the value of food and wine storytelling as a tool for promoting producers, artisans, communities, and traditions. Wine communication thus also becomes a means of cultural promotion.

3. International and foreign markets

Europe: Alcohol consumption decreases, soft drinks increase

According to Circana, in the twelve months ending June 2026, the beverage market in six major European countries will reach €180 billion (2.9%).

Non-alcoholic beverages grew by 5.4%, while alcoholic beverages declined by 0.8%. Wine declined by 1.5%, and low- and no-alcohol alternatives increased by 7.3%.

Forty-three percent of consumers surveyed said they were reducing their alcohol consumption. Among those aged 25 to 39, the percentage rises to 50%.

World wine consumption: Italy -9.4%, Brazil 41.9%

According to OIV data taken from the American Association of Wine Economists, global wine consumption is expected to decrease by 2.7% in 2025.

Contraction markets include Italy (-9.4%), the United States (-4.2%), Germany (-4.3%), France (-3.2%), and China (-13%). Brazil bucked the trend, recording growth of 41.9%.

The numbers confirm the need to diversify markets and update commercial strategies.

Slovenia: Štajerska awarded among the best European wine regions

Slovenia’s Štajerska region takes first place in the European Best Destinations ranking, surpassing over ninety European wine regions. Landscape, authenticity, wine culture, sustainability, and wine tourism offerings are key factors.

Germany: New technology to preserve the aromas of dealcoholized wine

Henkell Freixenet will invest in a system developed by Solos Technology in Wiesbaden to recover aromas during dealcoholization. The goal is to improve the sensory quality, complexity, and identity of alcohol-free wines, supporting the development of the premium segment.

European Wine Tourism: Ten Destinations Between Wine and Landscape

There’s growing interest in itineraries that combine vineyards, wineries, historic villages, gastronomy, and nature. France, Italy, the Iberian Peninsula, and other Mediterranean regions are proving to be key players in wine tourism.

4. Wine events and appointments

9–11 OCT

Autumn – Trento

The Edmund Mach Foundation is offering lectures at Palazzo Geremia on the Trentino grape varieties Müller-Thurgau, Teroldego, Nosiola, and Marzemino, as well as insights into medicinal herbs. Admission is free.

10–11 OCT

Amarone Weekend – Negrar di Valpolicella

The Fratelli Vogadori Winery organizes tours of the vineyards, barrel cellar, and fruit storage room, with guided tastings at 10:30 am and 2:30 pm.

FROM 11 OCT

Steps & Glasses – Romagna

Four 5–7 kilometer hikes through nature and tastings. The first stop is on October 11th at the Zavalloni Winery in Cesena, and the second on October 17th at the Baccarini Farm in Castelbolognese. Two more stops will follow in November.

17 OCT

Texture and Wine – Villa Molin, Veneto

A journey through the history of Venetian villas, silk, craftsmanship, and wine, with a guided tour and cultural insights.

17–25 OCT

Milan Wine Week 2026

Tastings, masterclasses, immersive experiences, and meetings dedicated to communication, catering, and the future of the wine industry.

22 OCT

Metzger, Beer, and Astronomy – Turin

At the Metzger Brewery, from 8 to 10 p.m., join the astronomers from Infini.to to observe the Moon and Saturn, combining science and conviviality.

6–10 NOV

Merano WineFestival – 35th edition

810 wineries, over 2,600 products for tasting, and more than 100 producers from 21 foreign countries are expected at the Merano Kurhaus. The Merano Wine Observatory has been announced, set to begin operations in 2027.

2027

WinePrime – Milan, project still to be defined

Excellence SiDi and Fiera Milano are working on an event dedicated to fine wines. Its launch in 2027 has not yet been confirmed and remains a matter of discussion among distributors.

5. The market picture: what emerges from today’s news

The October 8th review highlights five important trends for Italian wineries.

1. The market is showing signs of stabilization, but not full recovery. Bottling volumes are improving compared to the first few months of the year, while inventory levels and difficulties in red wines continue to weigh on producers.

2. Demand is changing. Non-alcoholic alternatives are growing and traditional consumption is declining, especially in some established markets.

3. Wineries must strengthen their commercial value. Wine quality, brand recognition, distribution, hospitality, and wine tourism must develop together.

4. Cooperation and supply chain agreements are gaining importance. The South Tyrolean model and Piedmontese interventions demonstrate the importance of building partnerships to address market challenges.

5. Investors are increasingly concerned with the ability to generate income. Land, vineyards, buildings, and brands remain crucial, but a winery’s value also depends on its economic sustainability, commercial capacity, and growth prospects.

QUIDQUID – Information, wine, business and investments

The wine press review for Thursday, October 8, 2026 is brought to you by WINEIDEA.IT.

For more information on the world of wine, wineries, and investment opportunities:

vinievino.it | riteneagricole24.it | forbus.it

Thank you for your attention and see you at the next QUIDQUID wine press review .

WINE MANAGEMENT: MIB TRIESTE CONTRIBUTES TO DEFINING THE NEW PROFESSIONAL STANDARD

The Trieste Business School collaborated with DNV to define the skills required for a managerial role that is increasingly central to the competitiveness of Italian wine.

The Executive Course in Wine Business Management, now in its 14th edition, offers training in line with the new standard.
The Italian wine sector now has a new benchmark for recognizing managerial skills. DNV , one of the world’s leading certification bodies, has developed the first framework dedicated to the role of Wine Business Manager . MIB Trieste School of Management contributed its scientific and methodological expertise to defining the standard and its requirements.

The new certification is a concrete response to a structural transformation of the wine market. Competing on international markets requires a wealth of knowledge that goes beyond product and winemaking expertise. Export, marketing, pricing, economic and financial management, supply chain, risk management, sustainability, and the ability to understand supply chain dynamics are now integral to the work of those leading the development of a winery. It is precisely on this evolution of the managerial role that MIB Trieste has built its expertise in specialized training for the sector over the past twenty years.

” The creation of a certification dedicated to Wine Business Managers represents an important step towards the professionalization of the sector ,” says Pierpaolo Penco, Head of the Wine Business Area at MIB Trieste School of Management . ” For the first time, the managerial skills required to operate in the wine industry are brought together in a standard defined and verifiable by an independent body. Our contribution to the development of the DNV standard stems from the belief that the future of Italian wine also depends on the ability to recognize, develop, and enhance managerial skills suited to the complexity of contemporary markets .”

The new profile marks the transition from product to business. The Wine Business Manager is called upon to connect the various components of the supply chain, transforming product quality and the identity of the territory into sustainable economic value. It’s not about certifying winemaking or tasting skills, but rather about recognizing professionals capable of managing all aspects of the business with an integrated managerial vision, from strategic decisions to performance monitoring .

This is a change that MIB Trieste observes firsthand through its courses. Wineries today operate in a context where wine quality is a necessary but no longer sufficient condition for competitiveness. What makes the difference is the ability to interpret markets, identify opportunities, manage resources and people, define commercial strategies, and create value for the consumer.

DNV certification takes this evolution a step further , from declared skills to those assessed and formally recognized. In an increasingly competitive and international market, it offers wine professionals a differentiating tool already consolidated in other fields: independent validation of skills, which increases perceived reliability , makes the profile more immediately legible, and strengthens its value in the eyes of companies and stakeholders.

To access it, the standard requires a degree, specific training, and at least five years of proven experience in the field. The assessment includes a document analysis, two written tests—one of which focuses on solving a real-world case study—and an oral interview. The certificate is valid for five years and is subject to mandatory continuing education.

Precisely because training is a prerequisite for certification, the Executive Course in Wine Business Management at MIB Trieste School of Management , whose 14th edition will begin on November 26, 2026 , is particularly relevant in this scenario. The program aims to develop a comprehensive vision of the wine business through skills in strategy, marketing and sales, winery management, internationalization, and market analysis . The approach combines theoretical framework, practical application, and discussion with industry professionals and companies. For this reason, the program is consistent with the skills set by the new DNV standard and can help meet the targeted training requirement for admission, subject to meeting the other conditions established by the scheme.

” Certification doesn’t replace training, but rather enhances its role,” Penco emphasizes. “The market needs professionals who aren’t just specialists in a single function, but who understand wine as a complex economic system. This is exactly the direction in which we developed our program: to provide participants with the tools to understand the market, develop strategies, make decisions, and connect the various business functions .”

It’s a long-standing commitment. In 2003, MIB Trieste was the first Italian business school to continuously invest in the training of wine managers. Year after year, the course has fostered a community of professionals now working in family-run wineries, international groups, distribution, consulting, and other businesses in the supply chain.

The creation of the DNV professional standard is therefore part of a process that MIB Trieste has been pursuing for some time: supporting the transformation of the sector through the development of managerial skills capable of combining product culture, market knowledge and management skills .

For information on the Wine Business Management Course :
MIB Trieste School of Management
Largo Caduti di Nassiriya 1, Trieste – communication@mib.edu

For information on DNV certification :
https://www.dnv.it/services/wine-business-manager/

Wine press review for Wednesday October 7-2026

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

Good morning,

Market, acquisitions, wineries, wine tourism, innovation, and new international scenarios: here are the main news from the world of wine selected by QUIDQUID.

ITALIAN WINERIES

Piccini acquires the Friulian winery Margherita ed Arrigo

The Piccini Group acquires full control of Margherita ed Arrigo , a Friulian winery specializing in white and sparkling wines. The transaction strengthens the group’s presence in the Northeast and expands its offerings for large-scale retail, hospitality, and exports. The winery, which generated €3.6 million in revenue in 2025, produces Friulano, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Prosecco DOC, and Ribolla Gialla.

Contadi Castaldi: Terra Moretti denies the sale

The Terra Moretti Group denies rumors regarding a possible sale of Contadi Castaldi to Argea. The Franciacorta winery owns 174 hectares of vineyards , produces approximately 1.4 million bottles , and reported revenues of €17.9 million in 2025.

Gaja: “We’re not for sale.”

Gaja also intervened to deny rumors of a possible sale of the company and Gaja Distribuzione. The family confirmed its intention to continue the generational continuity process, specifying that negotiations with potential buyers have never been initiated.

Your Rita celebrates 30 Redigaffi grape harvests

With the 2023 vintage, Redigaffi , Tua Rita’s flagship Merlot, reaches the milestone of 30 harvests . Born in 1994 in Suvereto, the wine has become one of the most well-known and internationally appreciated Italian labels over the years.

Tenuta Sant’Antonio: Biodiversity and Identity in Amarone

To celebrate its thirtieth anniversary, Tenuta Sant’Antonio presents a special label for its Amarone della Valpolicella Anniversario. Four birds recall the Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella, and Oseleta grape varieties and, symbolically, the four Castagnedi brothers who founded the winery.

Pistis Sophia: Wine, Soil, and Regenerative Agriculture

In Ortona, Pistis Sophia is pursuing a production project based on reducing interventions in the vineyard and cellar. The winery, led by David Seccia and Ilenia, produces an average of 18,000 bottles per year and has been practicing organic-regenerative agriculture since 2019.

Tenuta di Castellaro: Aeolian wine tourism continues this fall.

The Tenuta di Castellaro Wine Resort on Lipari will remain open until November 8th. This choice aims to promote the Aeolian Islands even outside of high season, offering a slower-paced form of tourism, rooted in wine, the local area, and the experience of the landscape.

ITALIAN WINE AND OENOLOGY

The 2026 wine market remains challenging, but expectations for the end of the year are growing.

According to Guido Folonari , president of Excellence Sidi, the 2026 market remains essentially in line with a complex 2025, although signs of increased confidence are emerging toward the end of the year. In the restaurant industry, demand is growing for more flexible logistics services, with less inventory, more frequent orders, and models closer to “just in time.”

Fine wines: Italy and Champagne lead the recovery

The international collectible wine market is showing positive signs. In the first nine months of 2026, the Liv-ex 100 grew by 2.1% , reaching 4.4% over the twelve months.

Italy takes four positions among the ten best-performing labels: Barolo Falletto Vigna Le Rocche Riserva 2016 Bruno Giacosa 31.7%, Barolo Monfortino Riserva 2019 Giacomo Conterno 19.4%, Soldera Case Basse 2020 18.7% and Solaia 2021 Antinori 14.1% .

Barolo 2023: Serralunga presents a new vintage

At Serralunga Day , the 2023 Barolo del Comune di Serralunga d’Alba was previewed. A complex vintage, marked by spring rains and summer heat, but concluded with cool, bright conditions that favored a more classic harvest.

Cembra Valley: 708 kilometers of dry stone walls

The Cembra Valley represents one of the most significant examples of Italian heroic viticulture: vineyards between 500 and 900 meters above sea level, steep slopes, and 708 kilometers of dry stone walls . This agricultural and landscape heritage requires over 900 hours of work per hectare each year.

Wine and new generations: the sector seeks a new balance

The discussion between Cavit, Banfi, and Biondi Santi reveals a shared need: the market cannot simply wait for the return of old consumption patterns. Greater management capacity, territorial valorization, balanced production, and above all, a new language for engaging with young consumers are needed.

Wine Business Manager: A New Professional Standard Is Born

DNV has developed a certification scheme dedicated to the role of Wine Business Manager , with the scientific and methodological contribution of MIB Trieste School of Management. Export, marketing, pricing, finance, supply chain, risk management, and sustainability are becoming increasingly central skills in the modern management of wine businesses.

Innovation in the vineyards: eBacco is born

The Tuscan agritech startup E is developing eBacco , a compact, electric, and multifunctional agricultural vehicle also designed for vineyard work. The presentation is scheduled for EIMA International in Bologna, with pre-orders opening November 11th.

Asti DOCG focuses on cycling

The Asti DOCG Consortium becomes the official wine of Gran Piemonte. This partnership aims to unite wine, sport, landscape, and the international promotion of Piedmont’s wine regions.

Harvest and consumption: Acli Terra’s appeal

ACLI Terra Chieti emphasizes the good quality of the 2026 harvest grapes, despite a decrease in quantity. President Nicola D’Auria also urges the sector to reclaim a more natural relationship with wine, avoiding its perception as a product intended only for special occasions or elite consumers.

INTERNATIONAL

Prosecco grows where Champagne suffers

In price-sensitive markets, Prosecco continues to gain ground over Champagne. India is a particularly interesting case, where over 80% of wine is purchased under Rs 3,000, and Prosecco’s more accessible positioning represents a significant competitive advantage.

This phenomenon confirms the potential of Italian sparkling wines in emerging markets, especially when quality, recognition, and price find the right balance.

Dealcoholized: Henkell Freixenet Invests in Aroma Recovery

Henkell Freixenet is focusing on new technologies to improve the quality of premium dealcoholized sparkling wines. The Wiesbaden plant will use Solos Technology’s Aroma Recovery System , designed to recover and replenish the aromatic compounds normally lost during dealcoholization.

Montmartre: Grape Harvest in the Heart of Paris

The harvest has begun at the famous Clos Montmartre , an urban vineyard with over 1,700 vines and more than 20 varietals . The vineyard produces a symbolic production sold during the Fête des Vendanges and at the Montmartre Museum.

Argentina: Salesian wine for Pope Leo XIV’s Mass

The Don Bosco fortified wine from Casa Don Bosco in Rodeo del Medio , in the province of Mendoza, will be used during the Eucharistic celebration presided over by Pope Leo XIV in Córdoba on the occasion of his visit to Argentina scheduled for November 8-11, 2026.

WINE TOURISM

Italy relaunches wine tourism on international markets

At Vinitaly USA 2026 , scheduled for October 26 and 27 in New York, Italy will bring the strategic value of wine and wine tourism to the forefront.

According to ENIT data processed for UniCredit-Nomisma Wine Monitor 2025, 98% of wine tourists intend to repeat a wine-related travel experience in the next two to three years and 85% indicate Italy as their preferred destination .

An important signal for wineries and regions: wine is increasingly becoming a gateway to hospitality, gastronomy, culture, landscape, and experiential tourism.

Italian wineries become destinations

From Umbria to Piedmont, interest in wineries characterized by their architecture, landscape, and quality hospitality is growing. A winery visit thus transforms from a simple tasting into a complete tourist experience, especially during the grape harvest and in the autumn months.

WINE EVENTS

Champagne Experience surpasses 6,000 visitors

The ninth edition of Champagne Experience attracted over 6,000 attendees, including professionals, industry professionals, and enthusiasts. The event confirms the strong interest in Champagne and the direct exchange between Maisons, winemakers, terroirs, and different production styles.

Rauscedo Winery: A discussion on the future of cooperation

On October 9th and 10th , to celebrate Cantina Rauscedo’s 75th anniversary, “Le Radici del Vino” will bring together producers, experts, and operators to discuss competitiveness, exports, and the future of cooperatives.

Among the protagonists Alessio Planeta, Matteo Zoppas, Gabriele Gorelli and Denis Pantini of Nomisma Wine Monitor .

Rosé Experience in Milan

At the Kerakoll spaces in Milan, Rosé Experience brings together wine, color, art, and design. The initiative, part of the “100 Best Italian Rosé” guide, aims to showcase the growing identity of Italian rosé wines.

Sardinia: “Passi di Gusto” returns

On October 10-11 and October 31-November 1, Passi di Gusto returns, an initiative of the Fondazione Cammino Minerario di Santa Barbara that combines hiking, local products, wines and meetings with producers from south-western Sardinia.

Tiramisu World Cup and the Treviso area

From 9 to 11 October , Treviso hosts the Tiramisu World Cup. The event also becomes an opportunity to promote the Treviso area through cities of art, villages, gastronomy, nature and vineyard-covered hills .

PICTURE OF THE DAY

The news of October 7th tells of a sector that is moving on several fronts simultaneously.

On the one hand, the traditional market remains complex , on the other, interesting signs are emerging: a recovery in fine wines, acquisitions and corporate mergers, the growth of Prosecco in new markets, the development of wine tourism, and investments in dealcoholization and agriculture technologies.

One thing is becoming increasingly clear: a winery’s future competitiveness will depend on more than just the quality of its wine . It will require managerial skills, cost control, distribution, exports, technology, terroir, hospitality, and the ability to build new relationships with consumers.

For winery owners, entrepreneurs, and investors, this transformation could represent not only a critical issue, but also a concrete opportunity for the acquisition, aggregation, development, and valorization of Italian wineries .

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

See you tomorrow.

Wine press review for Tuesday October 6-2026

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

Good morning,

Markets, wineries, regions, innovation, wine tourism, and events: the main news from the world of Italian and international wine.

ITALIAN WINERIES

Pio Cesare expands its historic Alba winery and focuses on fine white wines. After four years of construction, Pio Cesare is expanding its winery in the center of Alba to approximately 9,000 square meters, without increasing production volumes. The new area is dedicated primarily to white wines, which represent approximately 30% of production, including Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Timorasso. The project integrates solar energy and water management.

Berlucchi continues to innovate in Franciacorta. The historic winery presents the new identity of its ’61 Nature line, which has become Vintage Nature. Berlucchi continues the research and experimentation initiated by Franco Ziliani and Guido Berlucchi, now working on approximately 600 hectares of estates and historic winegrowers spread across the moraine amphitheater of Franciacorta.

Tenuta Santa Maria di Gaetano Bertani: wine, history, and hospitality in Valpolicella. Villa Mosconi Bertani, in Novare di Negrar, is an example of integrating historical heritage and winemaking. The 18th-century villa, surrounded by vineyards and a 22-hectare orchard, has belonged to the Bertani family since 1957 and is now managed by Giovanni and Guglielmo Bertani.

From steel entrepreneur to winemaker: Piero Gori’s project in Nimis In 2009, Piero Gori launched a winemaking project in Friuli Venezia Giulia, focusing primarily on Pinot Noir. The winery, built on three levels, exploits gravity during the various production phases and integrates technology, architecture, and the terroir.

Cantina Valtidone wins Tre Bicchieri with Arvange. Arvange Metodo Classico Brut, made primarily from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, has received the Gambero Rosso Tre Bicchieri award. This recognition confirms the growing quality positioning of Piacenza’s sparkling wines.

Andriano Winery: The 2023 Tor di Lupo Riserva Lagrein takes center stage. The 2023 Tor di Lupo Riserva confirms Alto Adige’s vocation for Lagrein. A structured and long-lived red, aged in barrique, it is characterized by ripe fruit, spice, good acidity, and silky tannins.

Bottega freezes prices in Italy despite rising energy costs. Bottega Spa announces that it will not increase the prices of its wines and spirits on the Italian market until the end of 2027. The company is focusing on the use of renewable energy to at least partially contain the increase in energy, glass, and transportation costs.

ITALIAN WINE AND OENOLOGY

Barolo and climate change: water becomes strategic even in the Langhe . Water scarcity is becoming a major issue in Italian viticulture. In Barolo, Marta and Carlotta Rinaldi implemented emergency irrigation on the old Cannubi vineyards, an event never before seen in the company’s history. The topic sparks a discussion on the future management of water in premium vineyards.

Collio: Pinot Noir also stands out among the great white wines. Friuli Venezia Giulia confirms its position among Italy’s leading wine regions. In Collio, alongside Friulano, Ribolla Gialla, and Malvasia, the quality of international varieties is also growing. Among the new Tre Bicchieri winners are Alessio Komjanc’s Pinot Noir and La Ponca’s Malvasia.

Campania, Slow Wine 2027 captures a region in evolution. The region displays rising average quality but must contend with a changing market. Fiano di Avellino and Greco di Tufo consolidate their position as top white wines, while Falanghina and Coda di Volpe are experiencing renewed interest. The situation is more complex for Aglianico, which must also adapt to new climatic conditions.

Vesuvius Wines: Quality, Identity, and Exports for Growth. The Consortium for the Protection of Vesuvius Wines focuses on improving quality, promoting its volcanic identity, and opening up to international markets. The goal is to consolidate the positioning of Vesuvius wines, preventing them from being perceived simply as products tied to tourism.

Prosecco DOC increasingly linked to major sporting events. With 667 million bottles sold in 2025, an estimated consumer value exceeding €3.6 billion, and over 82% of production destined for export, Prosecco DOC is strengthening its international presence. After Milano Cortina 2026, MotoGP, and tennis, the denomination will also be a key player at the 58th Barcolana in Trieste.

Lazio: High inventories and sales crisis. Nearly 705,000 hectoliters of wine from previous harvests remained in regional warehouses, with an estimated loss of at least €400 million. As of July 31, 2026, inventories had increased by 6.4% compared to the previous year. Among the possible responses, Confagricoltura also points to a greater development of wine tourism.

Frasky, the Italian robot that works between the rows. The “Robot in the Vineyard” project brings artificial intelligence and robotics to precision agriculture. Frasky uses cameras and computer vision algorithms to locate grape bunches, monitor their ripening, and enable targeted interventions even in the presence of pathogens.

Wine tourism: wine, territory, and hospitality are becoming increasingly integrated. From Franciacorta to Puglia, the winery-as-destination model is growing. Masserie (farmhouses), wine resorts, tastings, art, and vineyard stays are expanding the economic value of a winery beyond just bottle sales.

INTERNATIONAL

2026 Harvest: Spain Approaches 34 Million Hectoliters. Cooperativas Agro-alimentarias de España estimates national wine and must production at around 34 million hectoliters. If confirmed, it would be the fourth consecutive harvest below 37 million hectoliters. France is also estimated at around 34 million hectoliters, a 6% decrease from 2025.

Global wine consumption at its lowest level in 70 years. According to OIV data from the American Association of Wine Economists, global consumption will stagnate at approximately 208 million hectoliters in 2025. Similar levels can be found only in 1957. This data confirms the ongoing structural shift in international consumption.

Switzerland: Proposal to support local producers rejected. The federal government will not require importers to purchase Swiss wine to obtain import quotas. The decision has been criticized by representatives of the Valais wine sector, who are calling for greater protection of domestic production.

Tour d’Argent is selling over 200 rare labels. The renowned Parisian restaurant is launching its autumn sale on October 7th, showcasing a selection from its cellar. The catalog features primarily Burgundy, Bordeaux, and Champagne, with 142 labels that have been aged for over twenty years.

EVENTS, WINE TOURISM AND WINE CULTURE

Portogruaro – Le Crede 1930: Wine, Nature, and Culture The agriturismo offers an autumn calendar that combines wine tourism, shows, art workshops, local products, and farm wines, strengthening the relationship between the winery and local tourism.

Montegrotto Terme – Italy and the New World in the glass On October 9th, “Sensi in Degustazione – Night Experience” will compare Italian, New Zealand, and South African wines through four labels paired with as many cicchetti.

Rome – Wine and Art at the Casino dell’Aurora Pallavicini. “Wine and Art, What a Passion” returns on October 11th. Great Italian wines will be featured in one of the most evocative locations of Roman Baroque, among frescoes and works by masters such as Guido Reni, Botticelli, Carracci, Guercino, and Rubens.

Morbegno in Cantina exceeds 8,000 visitors. The Valtellina event confirms wine’s ability to generate tourism and impact the region. Over the first two weekends, over 8,000 people attended events in the wineries and in the historic center.

Western Sicily: Wine and agri-food enhance the region. Between Trapani, Marsala, Paceco, and Favignana, events and tastings have brought the relationship between local produce, restaurants, and tourism back to the forefront. Among the initiatives is “Insolito-Marsala,” dedicated to direct encounters with local producers and cuisine.

“Vino, Donna”: the presentations of Chiara Giorleo’s book continue. The volume collects over five years of interviews with producers, winemakers, journalists, sommeliers, and wine professionals, offering a female perspective on the evolution of the sector.

Venezie a Tavola Guide 2027: Awards for Young People and Excellent Restaurants During the presentation of the new guide, Giannitessari awarded Andrea De Lillo of Nin restaurant as Young Chef of the Year, while Val d’Oca awarded Harry’s Piccolo in Trieste as Restaurant of the Year.

PICTURE OF THE DAY

The news of October 6th shows a wine sector undergoing four decisive transformations : climate change and water management, a structural reduction in consumption, growth in technological innovation, and the development of wine tourism.

On the one hand, signs of difficulty are emerging, such as the high inventory levels in Lazio and the international contraction in consumption; on the other, regions and companies continue to invest in quality, identity, technology, hospitality, and new communication models .

Italian wine therefore seems to be entering a phase in which producing well is no longer enough: it becomes essential to know how to valorize the territory, build experiences, innovate and reach new markets.

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

See you tomorrow.

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