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Wine press review for Thursday October 1-2026

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Wine Idea presents the main news from the world of wine, wineries, viticulture, and Italian and international oenology.

Good morning,

ITALIAN WINERIES

Bibenda 2027: Ten great wines represent Italian excellence.

The 2027 Bibenda Top 10, a guide from the Italian Sommelier Foundation, explores Italy’s wine scene with ten key labels: Arnaldo Rivera’s 2022 Barolo Villero – Terre del Barolo; Elena Walch’s 2023 Alto Adige Bianco Grande Cuvée Beyond The Clouds; Pieropan’s 2025 Collio Sauvignon Ronco delle Mele; Pieropan’s 2024 Soave Classico La Rocca; Petrolo’s 2023 Il Pollenza; San Giovenale’s 2024 Habemus Etichetta Bianca; Antonio Caggiano’s 2022 Taurasi; Coppi’s 2023 Gioia del Colle Primitivo Senatore; and Benanti’s 2021 Etna Bianco Superiore Pietra Marina.

Soave protagonist: seven Tre Bicchieri from Gambero Rosso

The 2027 Vini d’Italia Guide awards Tre Bicchieri (Three Glasses) to seven Soaves: Le Battistelle, Pieropan, I Campi, Suavia, Graziano Prà, Dal Cero–Tenuta Corte Giacobbe, and Agostino Vicentini. This result reinforces Soave’s position among Italy’s leading white wine appellations.

Molise: Di Majo Norante returns to the Tre Bicchieri Awards

Di Majo Norante’s 2021 Contado Riserva, made from Aglianico, has once again won the Gambero Rosso Tre Bicchieri award. This is an important recognition for Molise and for a region that, alongside Tintilia, continues to promote other historic varietals.

Alto Adige: Chardonnay Riserva Doran 2023 by Cantina Andriano

The 2023 Doran Chardonnay Riserva expresses the character of the limestone and dolomitic soils of the Andriano area. Fermentation and aging in barrels create a wine characterized by freshness, elegance, and aromatic complexity.

Franciacorta: the generational transition of San Cristoforo

Celeste Dotti, born in 1992, represents the new generation of the San Cristoforo family winery in Erbusco. After the generational transition in 2019, the challenge is to innovate while maintaining the local identity and the ability to communicate wine in a more accessible way.

Majolini: Contemporary Art in the Cellar

In Franciacorta, Cantina Majolini combines wine and culture with an artistic journey through its production facilities. Sculptures and contemporary works, including pieces by Aligi Sassu and Giuseppe Bergomi, accompany visitors among barrels, vats, and bottles.

Masseria Borgo dei Trulli invests €2.5 million in hospitality

The Apulian winery Masseria Borgo dei Trulli, founded by Alessandro Michelon, is planning approximately €2.5 million in investments to expand production and hospitality. The company produces approximately 400,000-500,000 bottles a year, 90% of which is exported, while winery visits are experiencing strong growth.

Rocca di Montemassi: positive harvest despite heat and drought

In Maremma, Rocca di Montemassi closed the 2026 harvest with a satisfactory production balance. High temperatures and lack of rainfall were the main challenges, mitigated by the availability of water for the vineyards.

O’SFIZZ: the sparkling wine focuses on informal consumption and comes in a 500ml format.

Mezanotte’s O’SFIZZ project offers dry sparkling wines with an alcohol content between 10 and 10.5% ABV, in 500 ml bottles. Three versions—Bianco, Rosé, and Rosso—focus on Falanghina, Piedirosso, and Aglianico, and are designed for a youthful, simple, and convivial drinking experience.

Cantina 38: Making wine accessible to everyone

In Brusaporto, Cantina 38 was born from the passion of the Pezzotta-Lorenzi family. The project favors small and medium-sized producers and aims to create an informal relationship with wine, allowing even the less experienced consumer to choose and discover new labels.

Camigliano supports the territory and tradition of Montalcino

The historic Camigliano winery, producer of Brunello di Montalcino, supports the Sagra del Galletto on October 3rd and 4th, an initiative dedicated to the gastronomic culture and history of the ancient village.

Champagne distributed by Italian wineries

Italian wineries are showing growing interest in Champagne distribution. Among the cases cited is Marilisa Allegrini’s Champagne Odyssée. This strategy has also been used by other major Italian producers to expand their offerings, especially in premium and hospitality channels.

ITALIAN WINE AND ITALIAN OENOLOGY

DoctorWine: Value for money takes center stage in the 2027 Guide

DoctorWine’s 2027 Essential Guide to Italian Wines highlights 910 wines priced under €18 for their excellent value. Among the top ten wines, priced above €90/€100 and under €8.50, Umbria stands out. Highlights include Bigi’s 2025 Orvieto Classico, Tenuta Le Velette’s 2025 Orvieto Berganorio, and Vitalonga’s 2024 Rosso Elcione.

Slow Wine 2027: 7,809 wines reviewed

The seventeenth edition of Slow Wine reviews 7,809 wines, selected after examining over 10,000 labels. The number of wineries awarded the Snail (Chiocciola) has risen to 247, five more than the previous edition, with 13 new entries.

2026 Harvest Moved Early: Data Is Growing Important

In many Italian regions, harvest began a week or two earlier, arriving locally up to 20 days early. Heat and drought accelerated ripening, resulting in higher sugar levels and lower acidity. According to Vinventions, the winemaker’s experience must increasingly be complemented by measuring the parameters of grapes, musts, and wines.

Berici Hills: Pergolas Return to Protect Against the Heat

The Colli Berici DOC has updated its regulations to include pergola training for new and replanted vineyards in hilly areas. The goal is to better protect the grapes from direct sunlight and preserve the grapes’ acidity in particularly hot years.

Trentino wine: a debate on identity and territory begins.

The debate over Trentino wine’s ranking in the major guides has reopened discussions on the positioning of Trentino DOC, the Additional Geographical Units, and the relationship between consortia and winemakers. Central to this discussion is the need to better showcase the differences between regions and production.

Wine and Gen Z: the problem could be language

The relationship between young people and wine continues to fuel debate. One emerging theory is that the challenge isn’t just the product itself, but also the way wine is presented, communicated, and sold. Simplicity, consumption opportunities, and new languages thus become central themes.

Rising costs and prices under pressure

The Italian wine sector faces a complex divide: energy, gas, glass, logistics, wine products, and packaging are rising, while consumer wine prices are showing downward pressure. Unione Italiana Vini draws attention to the growing difficulty for companies in passing on cost increases to final prices.

Puglia: The sector faces a structural change

According to Flai Cgil Brindisi, the market slowdown, inventory levels, and reduced remuneration could also impact employment. In Puglia, there were over 4.2 million hectoliters of wine in cellars as of July 31, 2026. The union urges us to consider this phenomenon as a structural transformation, not just a temporary one.

Piacenza: 2026 grape prices under pressure

According to the local Coldiretti, the Piacenza harvest is negative. After the whites, Gutturnio and Barbera also recorded peak prices about €5 per quintal lower than the previous year; Bonarda remained more stable.

Illegal work in the vineyards: checks in the Treviso area

Carabinieri from the Labor Inspectorate Unit conducted inspections in the agricultural sector. In Refrontolo and Sarmede, businesses employing a total of six workers without regular contracts were suspended during the grape harvest.

Prosecco DOC and Grana Padano together on European markets

The two Consortia are launching the three-year project “Here’s to EU – Perfect Moment,” aimed specifically at Germany, Poland, and Denmark. Prosecco DOC will begin with a base of 667 million bottles sold in 2025, an estimated consumer value of over €3.6 billion, and an export share of over 82%.

INTERNATIONAL

Burgundy: Still wines decline, Crémant grows

In the 12 months ending in July 2026, bottled sales of still Burgundy wines decreased by 1.3%. Crémant de Bourgogne, on the other hand, grew by 6.5%, helping to keep the region’s overall volumes essentially stable.

Slovenia: Brda grows in quality and international attention

The Slovenian Collio – Brda region is consolidating its reputation thanks to Ribolla Gialla, orange wines, and artisanal, strongly territorial productions. The combination of Alpine and Mediterranean influences, terraced vineyards, and small wineries fosters wines with a strong identity.

Patagonia: Chacra and Pinot Noir in the Argentine Desert

The Chacra project, founded by Piero Incisa della Rocchetta, recounts the rebirth of old Pinot Noir vineyards in Patagonia. Temperature variations, wind, and unique climate conditions contributed to the creation of an Argentine project now internationally renowned.

Romania: Wine, Investment, and Wine Tourism on the Rise

Romania is revitalizing its winemaking heritage by focusing on indigenous grape varieties, appellations, quality, and wine tourism. In 2025, domestic wine consumption is projected to reach 3.5 million hectoliters, an 11% increase over 2024, according to the OIV, bucking the trend of many international markets.

WINE EVENTS

Modigliana: 11 wineries tell the story of the region

The Modigliana wine festival returns on October 4th and 5th, now in its tenth year. Eleven wineries will meet the public and industry professionals through tastings and events dedicated to the cuisine and identity of the Romagna Apennines.

Rome celebrates Romanian wine and cuisine

On October 1st, Rome hosts an event promoted by the Romanian Ambassador to the Holy See and the Sovereign Order of Malta, George Gabriel Bologan. The meeting will focus on wine and gastronomy as tools for cultural dialogue between Romania and Italy.

Bibenda 2027: Awards Ceremony on November 28th in Rome

The presentation of the wines awarded the Bibenda 2027 Cinque Grappoli will culminate in the ceremony on November 28th in Rome, with the participation of the producers selected by the Italian Sommelier Foundation.

THE DAY’S LETTERING THREAD

The news of October 1, 2026, highlights a wine sector undergoing significant transformation.

On the one hand, quality, territories, appellations, and major Italian wineries remain central; on the other, new issues are forcefully emerging: climate change, early harvests, declining consumption, price pressures, rising costs, new communication models, wine tourism, and the search for simpler and more contemporary consumption opportunities.

One particularly interesting fact is that while several red wine categories are struggling, whites, sparkling wines, and more straightforward wines are showing greater dynamism. At the same time, wineries are increasingly investing in hospitality, promoting the region, and creating wine-related experiences.

The market isn’t simply slowing down: it’s changing its structure, language, and consumption patterns. For producers, wineries, and supply chain operators, quickly understanding this transformation is becoming increasingly important.

QUIDQUID – Wine News | October 1, 2026

A showcase of Italian wine, wineries, viticulture, oenology, grape harvesting, international markets, Prosecco, sparkling wines, wine tourism, and wine events.

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

See you tomorrow.

Wine press review for Wednesday September 30-2026

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Italian wine is undergoing a transformation that involves production, markets, consumption, wine tourism, and communication.

Good morning,

From the 2026 harvest to new strategies for rosé and low-alcohol wines, to autumn events and new regional experiences, here are the key industry news.

ITALIAN WINERIES

Pompeii: The “archaeological vineyard” project begins

The Pompeii Archaeological Park and the Tenute Capaldo Group have launched a public-private partnership project to revive the winemaking tradition of ancient Pompeii. The initiative includes planting vineyards with native varieties within the archaeological area and the future construction of a winery dedicated to “Pompeian wine.” The first harvest marks the operational launch of the project.

Terre Cevico strengthens its ties with the local community through Cesena FC

A delegation from Cesena FC visited the Terre Cevico headquarters in Lugo. The Romagna-based cooperative group, the team’s top sponsor, has approximately 1,000 members and sells its wines in 90 countries. The collaboration aims to strengthen the relationship between wine, sport, and the local area.

Agricola Marrone opens its doors during the Truffle Fair

In La Morra, in the heart of the Langhe UNESCO World Heritage Site, Agricola Marrone offers hospitality experiences linked to the Truffle Fair. An example of how winery, local area, family, and food and wine tourism can become part of a single experience.

Theft at a Barolo cellar: approximately 3,000 bottles stolen

An organized group stole approximately 3,000 premium bottles from a Piedmontese winery in just a few hours, using the company’s own equipment. The incident highlights the growing need to protect cellars, warehouses, and stocks of high-value wines.

I Parcellari experiments with winemaking with less movement

For the 2023 Piemonte Sauvignon Parcella 602, produced in 4,008 bottles from a 1.5-hectare parcel, I Parcellari uses the Vinooxygen system. This container allows fermentation, clarification, and stabilization to take place in the same tank, limiting racking and handling and allowing for greater oxygen control and a reduction in sulfites.

ITALIAN WINE AND ITALIAN OENOLOGY

2026 Harvest: Extreme Climate, but Good-Quality Grapes

Heat, drought, and intense weather events have affected the growing season, prompting some wineries to bring forward the harvest and experiment with systems to protect the grapes from high temperatures. Despite the climatic difficulties, several accounts report healthy grapes of interesting quality.

In Emilia-Romagna, Confagricoltura reported a harvest with overall excellent quality and production close to the previous year’s levels, despite heavy losses in areas hit by hail.

DOC Colli Berici: new regulations and greater production flexibility

Changes to the Colli Berici DOC regulations have come into force. Among the main changes are the expansion of the ampelographic base for the Bianco and Rosso wines and the possibility of using pergola training in new and replanted hillside vineyards. The permitted varietal composition for Colli Berici Rosso has also changed.

Valtènesi focuses on rosé as an element of identity

Winemaker Mattia Vezzola revitalizes Valtènesi’s vocation as Italy’s leading rosé region. His vision focuses on considering rosé not as a complementary product, but as a wine with a distinct production and territorial identity.

At the same time, cultural work continues to overcome some stereotypes about rosé: it is not simply a cross between white and red, and it should not necessarily be considered exclusively a summer or aperitif wine.

Low-alcohol: Orvieto looks to low-alcohol wines

The topic of low-alcohol wines is increasingly becoming a topic of discussion in Italian winemaking. In the Orvieto area, the possibility of developing wines with lower alcohol content, even around 7%, is being explored as a response to changes in consumption and the growing focus on lighter products.

Wine tourism: the challenge is to transform it into a real tourism product

According to Dario Stefàno, president of the Lumsa Center for Wine and Olive Oil Tourism Studies, the new regulatory framework represents a step forward, but a more structured strategy is needed. The goal should be to transform wine tourism from an ancillary activity of the winery to an organized, measurable, and marketable tourism product.

The international success of wine also comes from the territories

A study based on data from 1,091 exporting Italian wineries analyzes the role of territorial ecosystems in wineries’ ability to compete in international markets. The central hypothesis is that geographic proximity, relationships, and concentration of expertise can contribute to the export performance of even small and medium-sized companies.

Winemag Guide 2027: Award-winning wines and wineries announced

The 2027 Winemag Guide awarded Italian Winery of the Year to J. Hofstätter and Italian Wine of the Year to Cesarini Sforza’s Trento DOC Aquila Reale Riserva 2015. Cantina del Taburno was named a Revelation Winery, while Valentina Cubi received the award for organic production.

Gambero Rosso previews the 50 “Rare Wines”

The Vini d’Italia 2027 guide previews a selection of 50 labels produced in limited quantities, including those from small vineyards, old varietals, and unique winemaking projects. The guide is scheduled for release on October 25th.

Sparkling Special 2026 Italy

Falstaff selected 35 Italian sparkling wines for the “Sparkling Special 2026 Italia” tasting, evaluating them according to the international 100-point system.

Trentino and Alto Adige in a comparison of guidebooks

The new wine guides show differing results for Trentino and Alto Adige. Trentino’s Trentodoc is one of its main strengths in the awards, while Alto Adige also receives numerous mentions in the still wine categories.

Counterfeiting: Bottega draws attention to reputational damage

Following the seizure in Venice of counterfeit products used in the preparation of spritz, Sandro Bottega highlighted the risks that fraud can pose not only to individual brands, but to the overall image of Italian products on international markets.

The Grandi Marchi Institute honors Daniele Cernilli.

The Grandi Marchi Institute has awarded Daniele Cernilli its recognition dedicated to leading figures in wine communication. He is the first Italian to receive the award, given for his contribution to the dissemination and international promotion of Italian wine culture.

INTERNATIONAL AND MARKETS

Wine and health: the European debate on alcohol consumption continues.

The European Parliament’s Health Committee has approved a text on the implementation of the European Beating Cancer Plan, which, according to the Italian Wine Union, introduces a more explicit distinction between alcohol consumption and harmful consumption.

The European debate remains open on particularly sensitive issues for the sector: health warnings, commercial communications, advertising, sponsorships, and prevention policies.

The wine sector is therefore closely monitoring regulatory developments, considering the potential consequences for wine communication and marketing.

WINE EVENTS AND WINE TOURISM

Bardolino – 95th Grape and Wine Festival

Bardolino celebrates the 95th edition of the historic event dedicated to the wine and traditions of Lake Garda. Five days of tastings, shows, music, and cultural initiatives are scheduled, with over 30 food and wine stands and approximately 1,000 volunteers involved.

Valtènesi – “Profumi di Mosto” turns 25

On Sunday, October 4th, 24 wineries in the Valtènesi and Brescian Riviera del Garda will open their doors for the 25th edition of “Profumi di Mosto.” Nine itineraries will include tastings, producers, landscapes, and a look at the appellation.

Milan – The MonteNapoleone Harvest

The 17th edition of “La Vendemmia” returns from October 5th to 11th, an event that brings together wine, luxury, hospitality, and dining. Boutiques, hotels, and 24 Milanese restaurants will be participating in tastings, cocktails, and gastronomic experiences.

Corciano – Wine Castle

From October 2nd to 4th, the Umbrian village hosts the 14th edition of “Corciano Castello di Vino,” featuring tastings, meetings, music, culture, and insights. The program also includes the Umbrian Wine Summit and meetings with industry leaders.

Sicily – Autumn in the Cellar

From October 3rd to 25th, IRVO is offering seven events at seven Sicilian wineries. The initiative will span across various regions of the island, from Etna to the Nebrodi and Madonie mountains, with the aim of extending wine tourism beyond the traditional summer season.

Rosignano Monferrato – Harvest in Art

The 31st edition of “Vendemmia in Arte” returns on October 3rd and 4th, an event that brings together wine, grape harvest, truffles, cuisine, crafts, art, and the historic infernot of Monferrato.

Siena – Between Villages and Cellars

Nine events are scheduled in the province of Siena from October 1st to November 26th. Each evening will bring together a village, a restaurant, and a winery, showcasing DOC and DOCG wines, local cuisine, and traditional products.

Bairo – Book and Wine

On Sunday, October 11, Cantina 366 will host “Book and Wine,” an experience that combines literature, music, walks among the vines, and tastings of wines and local products.

Pinzolo – High Altitude Hospitality

On November 11th, the Paladolomiti will host a new event for mountain professionals. The focus will be on hospitality, catering, new technologies, artificial intelligence, and tools for navigating the winter tourism season.

Vittorio Veneto – Olive Oil Tourism

A 5.6-kilometer walk dedicated to Veneto DOP olive oil is planned for October 17th, with visits to oil mills, tastings, and a lunch at a farm. This is an example of integrating agricultural production, local culture, and experiential tourism.

Dogliani – Truffles and Langhe Cuisine

With the arrival of autumn, Cucina Decanto offers a gastronomic journey dedicated to truffles and Piedmontese cuisine, highlighting the relationship between food, wine, and the region.

Pescarolo – Wine and Culture at the Linen Museum

The “Calici di Lino” initiative brought tastings to the Linen Museum, creating an original connection between wine, history, and textile tradition. The success of the first edition opens the door to further initiatives.

THE WEEK’S SYNOPSIS

Today’s news shows a sector that is progressively expanding its boundaries.

Wine is no longer just a vineyard, a cellar, and a bottle. It is increasingly becoming a system that encompasses the region, tourism, restaurants, culture, innovation, sustainability, communication, and the ability to create experiences.

At the same time, several strategic issues are emerging: climate change is altering vineyard and harvest management; consumer habits are changing; there is a growing interest in rosé and lower-alcohol wines; wine tourism is becoming an increasingly important economic component; and the protection of denominations and brands is taking on increasing importance.

For Italian wineries, the challenge will therefore not only be to produce good wine, but to build a recognizable identity around it, an attractive terroir, and an economic model capable of competing on Italian and international markets.

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

See you tomorrow.

Wine press review for Tuesday September 29-2026

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

Trentodoc grows: five new wineries and 74 member companies

The Trentodoc family expands with the addition of Ert1050, Die Felsen, Moncalisse, Rechof, and Roeno , bringing the number of wineries associated with the Trentodoc Institute to 74. The new producers come from diverse backgrounds and regions of Trentino, but they share the goal of enhancing the relationship between wine, the environment, and territorial identity.

The growth comes at a positive time for the denomination: the fifth edition of the Trentodoc Festival recorded around 12,000 attendees and almost 170 events , while annual production reaches around 12.2 million bottles.

Asolo Montello launches the “Enoteca Diffusa”

The Asolo Montello Wine Protection Consortium presented Enoteca Diffusa – Asolo Montello Wine Experience Network , a project that connects wineries, restaurants, wine shops, accommodation facilities, and tourism and cultural operators.

The goal is to transform the food, wine, and landscape heritage into a coordinated system of experiences, encouraging itinerant tastings and increasing visitor retention.

The largest Italian wine companies represent over 64% of the sector

According to data from the UIV Observatory referring to 2025, 120 wine companies – 80 private and 40 cooperatives – represent 64.3% of the sector’s turnover .

Overall, they generate just over €9 billion in revenue , with exports totaling €5.2 billion and sales on the Italian market totaling €3.8 billion. However, the data shows a decline compared to 2024 and confirms a challenging phase for the sector.

ITALIAN WINE AND OENOLOGY

2026 Harvest: Heat and Early Harvest Change Viticulture

The climate is one of the main protagonists of the 2026 harvest. In Val di Cornia , after a particularly hot summer, the harvest was brought forward by about ten days.

The August rains helped rebalance the ripening process, especially for Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, resulting in grapes that were considered overall balanced.

The phenomenon affects many other Italian regions. In Franciacorta, some harvests began as early as July, while in several areas, the early harvest was accompanied by reduced yields. The climate issue is therefore becoming increasingly crucial to future vineyard management.

Veneto Wine Region: From Prosecco’s 30,000 hectares to smaller denominations

Veneto has one of the most complex winemaking systems in Italy, with 14 DOCGs, 29 DOCs and 10 IGTs .

Prosecco DOC covers almost 30,000 hectares, while Conegliano Valdobbiadene DOCG covers 8,665 hectares and Asolo Prosecco DOCG 2,469. Among the DOCs, Pinot Grigio Delle Venezie, Valpolicella, and Soave also stand out.

The significant difference in size between the denominations reopens the debate on the ability of smaller DOCs to sustain adequate commercial and promotional investments.

Abruzzo: fresher, more territorial, and contemporary wines

The style of a significant portion of Abruzzo’s production is changing. Montepulciano d’Abruzzo is increasingly interpreted through freshness, balance, and a clear understanding of its terroir, reducing concentration, alcohol, and the pronounced use of wood.

At the same time, interest in Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo is growing, supported by the demand for more dynamic and immediate wines.

Trentino: not just Trentodoc

The Classic Method remains one of the main drivers of the Trentino winemaking image, but interest in mountain whites, local reds, native vines and international varieties is also growing.

The tastings in the new guides describe an increasingly diverse region, where large cooperatives, historic wineries, and small winemakers contribute to the diversification of the offering.

Cinque Terre: Drones and Precision Agriculture in Heroic Vineyards

The Hero-Vine project brings drones and precision agriculture technologies to the terraced vineyards of the Cinque Terre.

The devices can be used for remote sensing, plant health monitoring, soil analysis, and targeted pest control, fertilization, and biostimulation. This experiment is particularly interesting for areas where traditional mechanization is difficult.

Puglian grapes: exports are growing, but prices at source remain low.

Puglia concentrates over 53% of the Italian surface area dedicated to table grapes , with approximately 25,000 hectares.

Despite growing exports, producers report prices at source around €0.30-€0.40/kg , while in distribution the product can be offered on promotion for around €0.99/kg. This gap brings the issue of the profitability of the agricultural supply chain back to the forefront.

MARKETS, EXPORTS AND INTERNATIONAL SCENARIOS

Italian wine: The United Kingdom remains a strategic market

In the first half of 2026, Italian wine exports to the United Kingdom reached approximately 345.5 million euros .

The British market remains the third-largest global destination for Italian wine after the United States and Germany. Italy is also the leading supplier by volume and second by value.

In London, the Italian sector is also a protagonist with Simply Italian Great Wines , an initiative dedicated to the promotion and internationalization of wineries.

Bulk wine: global trade down, seeking new markets

In the twelve months between April 2025 and March 2026, world bulk wine exports are expected to decrease by 10.3% in volume and 11.8% in value , with an average price close to 0.78 euros/litre.

In this scenario, new markets, white and varietal wines, bag-in-box, no/low alcohol and new logistics and supply models gain importance.

The theme will be at the heart of the World Bulk Wine Exhibition , scheduled to take place in Amsterdam on 30 November and 1 December 2026.

Barolo and Taurasi: value also depends on positioning

A comparison published by Wine-Searcher highlights the strong difference in international commercial presence between Barolo and Taurasi.

The database analyzed shows 14,477 offers of Barolo compared to 731 of Taurasi , with global average prices of 136 and 71 dollars respectively.

The comparison does not directly measure quality, but highlights how distribution, awareness, and continuity of market presence can impact the perceived value of a denomination.

European Parliament and wine: BECA draft approved by the Commission

The European Parliament’s Health Committee approved on 28 September the draft implementation of the European Beating Cancer Plan .

According to the Italian Wine Union, the text maintains the distinction between alcohol consumption and “harmful” consumption, does not introduce the concept of “no safe level,” and recognizes the wine sector’s progress in providing information on ingredients, nutritional values, and digital labeling.

The draft should now continue its parliamentary process.

GUIDES, AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS

Gambero Rosso 2027: 49 Three Glasses Awards for Veneto

The 2027 Italian Wine Guide awards 49 Tre Bicchieri to Veneto wines , 31 of which are from Verona.

13 Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG wines stand out, while Valdobbiadene and Soave each receive seven awards.

Winemag 2027: J. Hofstätter Winery of the Year

The 2027 Winemag Guide names J. Hofstätter as Italian Winery of the Year and Cesarini Sforza’s Trento DOC Aquila Reale Riserva 2015 as Italian Wine of the Year.

Cantina del Taburno is named a breakthrough winery, while Valentina Cubi receives recognition for its organic winery.

Slow Wine 2027: 168 new wineries

The seventeenth edition of Slow Wine introduces 168 companies not present in the previous edition , joining the 247 Snails, 173 Bottles and 56 Coins already announced.

DoctorWine 2027: The pinnacle of Italian production selected

DoctorWine’s Essential Guide to Italian Wines 2027 has published the wines that have achieved the highest recognitions in its selection, with 40 wines rated 98/100 and 11 wines between 99 and 100/100 .

Cembra: 92 Falstaff points for Ororosso

Ororosso Trento Riserva DOC Pas Dosé 2020 from Cembra Cantina di Montagna has obtained 92 Falstaff points , confirming the international attention towards Trentino Classic Method sparkling wines.

WINE TOURISM AND WINE-RELATED EVENTS

Lugana Festival: debuting in Sirmione from October 16th to 19th

Sirmione will host the first edition of the Lugana Festival , four days dedicated to the denomination with tastings, masterclasses, gastronomy, and music.

Among the initiatives is the Lugana Express , a shuttle that will connect the center of Sirmione to the local wineries.

Open Cellars for Harvest until October 25th

Open Cellars during Harvest continues throughout Italy, an initiative by the Wine Tourism Movement that transforms the harvest period into a wine tourism experience.

The companies offer visits, activities in the vineyard and cellar, and experiences dedicated to families, young people, and international tourists.

Sicily: Seven stops for “Autumn in the Cellar”

From October 3rd to 25th, “Autumn in the Cellar” returns, a project promoted by IRVO.

Seven wineries will accompany visitors through different Sicilian regions, from Vittoria to Etna, from the Nebrodi to the Madonie mountains, all the way to western Sicily.

Only Wine 2027 opens the selections

From 24 to 26 April 2027 , Only Wine , a trade fair dedicated to young producers and small wineries, will return to Città di Castello.

Selections are now open to identify over 100 Italian and international companies with strong local identity and a capacity for innovation.

Wines of Italy 2027: preview in Asti

On October 1st, Asti will host the preview of the Gambero Rosso 2027 Italian Wine Guide, while the official presentation is scheduled in Rome on October 25th.

Particular attention will be paid to the new generations of producers and the state of Piedmontese wine.

WINE, TERRITORY AND CULTURE

Montalcino under the international spotlight

The wedding between Damiano David and Dove Cameron , celebrated in Montalcino, has once again brought the Tuscan region to the attention of the international media.

Rosso and Brunello di Montalcino accompanied the events, along with hospitality, fashion, and Italian gastronomy, once again demonstrating the potential of wine as a means of promoting the region.

Treviso: Wine and Culture at the Comic Book Festival

The Cecchetto Giorgio Winery awarded the 2026 Cecchetto Prize to illustrator Isotta Santinelli as part of the Treviso Comic Book Festival, an example of collaboration between winemaking and contemporary culture.

Venice intensifies controls on low-priced spritzes

The Venice Local Police are intensifying checks at establishments offering Spritz at particularly low prices, checking for any substitutions of the declared liqueurs with other products.

The issue concerns above all transparency towards the consumer, correct identification of products and protection of brands .

THE PICTURE OF THE DAY

The news of September 29th shows an Italian wine sector undergoing significant transformation.

On the one hand , climate change, declining consumption, pressure on exports, and profitability challenges are emerging. On the other, new opportunities are growing related to wine tourism, technology, the Classic Method, territorial positioning, new formats, and international markets .

The common thread appears increasingly evident: producing good wine is no longer enough .

Identity, distribution, commercial capacity, brand recognition, consumer experience, and international market presence are key factors in creating value.

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

See you tomorrow.

Wine press review for Monday September 28-2026

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

Asolo Montello: The Enoteca Diffusa is born

The Asolo Montello Wine Consortium launches Enoteca Diffusa – Asolo Montello Wine Experience Network , a project that connects wineries, the region, and tourism. Not a new physical structure, but a digital wine tourism system offering itinerant tastings and tours to discover Asolo Prosecco Superiore DOCG, Montello DOCG, and Montello Asolo DOC .

Andriano Winery: 133 Years of Cooperation in South Tyrol

Founded in 1893 by 31 winemakers , Cantina Andriano is one of the oldest winemaking cooperatives in Alto Adige. Today, it brings together around 60 members and 80 hectares of vineyards , representing a historic model of collaboration between small producers focused on quality and economic sustainability.

Nera Vini showcases the great Valtellina Reserves.

On October 5, 2026 , at the Chiuro headquarters, Nera Vini is organizing the Press Day “I Millesimi del Tempo” , dedicated to the evolution of the company’s great Reserves and Nebbiolo delle Alpi through different vintages, vineyards, sub-zones and refinement techniques.

Trentodoc: Francesco Moser opens cellar and vineyards

During the Trentodoc Festival, Francesco Moser ‘s estate opened its doors to visitors and professionals. This initiative confirms the evolution of wine tourism: no longer just tastings, but firsthand knowledge of producers, vineyards, the land, and production techniques.

ITALIAN WINE AND OENOLOGY

2026 Harvest Early in Val di Cornia

In Val di Cornia, on the Tuscan coast, the harvest concluded about ten days earlier than the historical average. After a particularly hot and dry summer, August rains favored the late-ripening varieties in particular. Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc completed ripening under more balanced conditions, with grapes judged to be rich and expressive.

Valtellina: vineyards up to 1,000 meters under study

The Consortium for the Protection of Valtellina Wines is discussing several changes to the specifications for Valtellina Superiore DOCG and Rosso di Valtellina DOC . Among the emerging issues is the evolution of viticulture toward higher altitudes, with potential effects on climate adaptation and the development of new production areas.

Sardinia: Record 18 Tre Bicchieri Awards

Gambero Rosso’s Vini d’Italia 2027 guide awards Tre Bicchieri (Three Glasses) to 18 Sardinian wines , a new record for the island. Cannonau and Vermentino stand out, along with Carignano, Nuragus, and other regional expressions. The result confirms the growing appreciation of Sardinia’s viticultural biodiversity.

Liguria: Six Tre Bicchieri Awards, with Vermentino taking center stage.

Six Ligurian wines have been awarded the Tre Bicchieri 2027. Five are white and one is red. Vermentino dominates the selection, particularly in the Colli di Luni and Colline di Levanto areas, alongside Pigato del Ponente Liguria.

Trentino: not just Trentodoc

The Classic Method remains one of the pillars of Trentino production, but there is also growing interest in mountain whites, local reds, and native grape varieties . The regional landscape appears increasingly diversified between cooperatives, small winemakers, and historic wineries.

Falstaff rewards Italian sparkling wines

Among Falstaff’s 2026 ratings, several Italian labels stand out: Cantina Furletti Trento Riserva DOC Pas Dosé 2019 with 94 points, Contratto Alta Langa DOCG Blanc de Blancs Pas Dosé 2022 with 93 points and Cantina di Trento Trento DOC Millesimato Brut 2022 with 90 points.

The largest Italian wineries: turnover over 9 billion

According to data from the UIV 2025 Observatory, 120 major Italian wineries , including 80 private companies and 40 cooperatives, account for 64.3% of the sector’s turnover. Overall, they exceed €9 billion in revenue , with €5.2 billion coming from exports and €3.8 billion from the Italian market. However, the data show a decline compared to the previous year.

School and Oenology: Educational Harvest in Ravenna

Students from the Morigia-Perdisa Technical Institute in Ravenna participated in the traditional school harvest, picking Trebbiano and Merlot grapes. Part of the grapes will be vinified in the school laboratory, allowing students to directly observe the entire production process.

MARKETS, CONSUMPTION AND TRENDS

The wine of the future could be lighter

There’s growing debate in the industry about a potential shift in the parameters used to define high-end wines. Alongside concentration, oak, structure, and alcohol content, elegance, balance, freshness, and drinkability could become more important. Climate change also makes it technically more challenging to produce light wines without losing their identity and depth.

European Union: The debate on alcohol, advertising, and labels returns.

Within the framework of European health prevention policies, the debate on measures related to alcohol consumption is returning, with particular attention to consumer information, labeling, advertising, and sponsorship . The wine sector is closely monitoring the debate due to its potential impact on communication and the commercial promotion of wine.

From the award to the market: the wines of the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles arrive in Milan.

Bistrot Pedol in Milan offers wines awarded at the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles through the CMB Experience project. The goal is to transform the recognition gained in international competitions into a concrete tool for visibility, experimentation, and sales to the end consumer.

WINE EVENTS

Trentodoc Festival: 12,000 attendees

The fifth edition of the Trentodoc Festival concluded with approximately 12,000 attendees and nearly 170 events in Trento, Rovereto, and the production areas. Events organized directly at the wineries increased from 37 to approximately 130, strengthening the relationship between wine, tourism, restaurants, culture, and the region.

Barbera d’Asti Wine Festival: The third edition has been presented.

The Barbera d’Asti and Monferrato Wines Consortium has presented the third edition of the Barbera d’Asti Wine Festival. The program includes events in Milan, Merano, and Asti, with tastings, meetings, and initiatives aimed at professionals, journalists, and wine lovers.

ViWine Festival returns to Vicenza

From October 2 to 4, 2026 , Piazza dei Signori and Corte dei Bissari will host the seventh edition of ViWine Festival . The program features over 40 wineries and more than 200 labels , as well as tastings, food, music, masterclasses, and experiences dedicated to the public.

Gallarate rediscovers “Artist’s Wine”

The Vino d’artista initiative, launched in 1996, is back: ten artists will create works for the bottle labels, alongside tributes to deceased local cultural figures. A project that unites wine, art, and the memory of the region.

Cecchetto Farm supports emerging talent

At the 2026 Treviso Comic Book Festival , the Cecchetto Prize was awarded to illustrator Isotta Santinelli . The award, promoted since 2018 by the Cecchetto Giorgio Agricultural Company together with the event, confirms the connection between winemaking, culture, and the local area.

THE PICTURE OF THE DAY

Today’s news highlights an Italian wine sector that is evolving on multiple fronts simultaneously.

Territory, wine tourism, climate change, new ways of consuming, and the promotion of denominations are becoming increasingly intertwined.

Asolo Montello experiments with a regional network of wineries; Trentodoc strengthens the relationship between wine and tourism; Valtellina explores altitude; Sardinia and Liguria promote local grape varieties and identities.

At the same time, a reflection on the product emerges: the valuable wine of the future may not necessarily be the most powerful and concentrated, but rather the one capable of combining identity, balance, elegance, and pleasantness of consumption.

This is an important change: the value of wine is built less and less within the bottle and more and more through territory, experience, recognisability and the ability to communicate with new consumers .

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

See you tomorrow.

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