Italian wineries, Italian wine producers, and current wine news.
Italian wineries · Italian wine and oenology · International markets · Wine events
Good morning, QUIDQUID presents the main news from the Italian and international wine sector for Friday, October 16, 2026.
In focus: the proposed introduction of PIWI grape varieties in DOC and DOCG wines, the increase in inventories in Italian wineries, the decline in grape prices, the results of the 2026 harvest, and generational turnover in wineries. From abroad, news is arriving on the strategies of major wine groups and emerging consumer trends.
1. Italian wineries: companies, investments and territory
Settecani Winery: turnover of 7.3 million euros (8%)
The Modena-based cooperative closed the 2025-2026 fiscal year with revenues up 8%. Bottled wine production increased by 13.6%, reaching 1.9 million bottles, while bulk wine production decreased by 5.6%. Exports grew by 14.6%, exceeding 465,000 bottles. The cooperative brings together 130 winemakers and focuses on higher value-added products.
Paololeo relaunches the historic Candido winery in Salento.
The Leo family reopens the historic Candido winery in San Donaci, founded in 1929 and a key player in the promotion of Negroamaro. Paololeo now boasts 70 hectares of vineyards, two wineries, and a 2025 turnover of €25 million. This move strengthens the link between production tradition and entrepreneurial development in Puglia.
Tenuta Santa Maria: Tradition and Quality in Valpolicella
In Arbizzano di Negrar, Tenuta Santa Maria showcases the history of Veronese winemaking through Amarone, Valpolicella Classico, and Classico Superiore. At the heart of this is Corvina’s ability to express local wines even without the use of appassimento (drying).
Piedmont: Isolabella della Croce combines wine, hospitality, and art.
In Loazzolo, the Isolabella della Croce wine resort offers an experience among historic Moscato vineyards, hospitality, and culture. The contemporary exhibition “This Must Be The Place” reinforces a wine tourism model that integrates wine production and local development.
Treviso: Young-run farms on the rise
By 2025, the number of farms with owners under 35 in the Treviso area will reach 854. Young entrepreneurs are paying greater attention to costs, margins, and international markets. This turnover is also supported by the 2023-2027 Rural Development Youth Package.
Generational turnover: 8.8% higher revenues in renewed companies
According to The European House – Ambrosetti’s Visione Vino 2026 report, 30.4% of family-run wineries have completed generational transition, and 39.2% are in the process of transitioning. Businesses involving younger generations report 8.8% higher revenues than average and a greater propensity to invest. The average age of wine entrepreneurs is 45, compared to 60 in general agriculture.
Piedmont: over 3 million hectoliters of wine in storage
Confagricoltura Piemonte draws attention to high inventories and the need to rebalance production and demand. In July, regional PDO wines in stock reached nearly 3 million hectoliters. Piedmontese exports, however, are expected to grow 2.4% in the first half of 2026, reaching €566 million.
Scerni: Fatal accident at the San Panfilo winery
A young worker lost his life while working with machinery at the cooperative winery in Scerni, in the province of Chieti. An investigation into the circumstances is underway. The CGIL (Italian General Confederation of Labour), the UDU (Union of Labour) and local authorities are calling for greater prevention and workplace safety. Reports indicate conflicting ages—21 and 23—which are yet to be verified.
2. Italian wine and oenology: market, production, and innovation
Piwi Grape Varieties: A Bipartisan Proposal to Allow Them in DOC and DOCG Wines
Gian Marco Centinaio and Antonella Forattini are promoting a parliamentary initiative to overturn the national ban on the use of Piwi-resistant grape varieties in wines with designations of origin. The goal is to promote sustainability and climate adaptation. The proposal concerns Article 33 of Law 238/2016: it has not yet been approved as a legislative amendment.
Italian stocks: over 62 million hectoliters of wine, must, and fermentation products
According to the ICQRF’s Cantina Italia, as of September 30, 2026, there were 41 million hectoliters of wine (14.2% compared to 2025), 12.8 million hectoliters of must, and 8.9 million hectoliters of new wine still in fermentation. The total reached approximately 62.7 million hectoliters, increasing pressure on warehouses, liquidity, and marketing.
Grape prices falling in many denominations
Initial Chamber of Commerce data analyzed by BMTI show declining prices in several Italian regions. High inventories and limited demand are weighing on the situation. Preliminary European estimates indicate national production in 2026 will be just over 41 million hectoliters, a decrease of 7.1%.
2026 Harvest: High Quality in Emilian Cooperatives
Confcooperative Terre d’Emilia reports a positive harvest in terms of grape quality and sugar content. The 13 cooperatives in Modena and Reggio Emilia harvested 2.612 million quintals, 10.9% less than expected in 2025. Lambruscos experienced a slight decline, while Ancellotta grew, and white grapes increased by 16.9%.
Sicily International Wine Region of the Year 2026
Wine Enthusiast has recognized Sicily as International Wine Region of the Year 2026 at the Wine Star Awards. The awards recognize quality, innovation, territorial identity, and sustainability, with particular attention to organic viticulture and the SOStain Sicilia program.
Berici Hills: The pergola becomes a response to climate change
The DOC regulations allow the pergola training system for all varieties in new and replanted hillside vineyards. This change offers winemakers an additional solution for protecting grapes from high temperatures, without requiring conversions to existing vineyards.
TDN in white wines: watch out for hydrocarbon notes
In winemaking, TDN, the compound responsible for petroleum-based aromas, is attracting growing attention. Traditionally present in mature Rieslings, it can also be found in Verdicchio, Vermentino, Timorasso, Fiano, and other Italian white wines. At high concentrations, it risks obscuring the grape variety’s aromatic identity.
Slow Wine: 7,809 wines reviewed and 247 Snails
The new Slow Wine guide examines approximately 10,000 labels and awards 247 Snails to the wineries that best represent Slow Food values. There are 168 new entries and 132 departures. The qualitative growth of southern wines, especially Sicilian and Etna wines, stands out in a market marked by weak consumption.
Piedmont: Alta Langa and new territories gain attention
Alongside Barolo and Barbaresco, the Alta Langa and other Piedmontese appellations are strengthening their quality positioning. Tastings highlight a greater pursuit of elegance, territorial precision, and drinkability, even in the great Nebbiolo-based wines.
Acquolina Roma: pairings dedicated to native grape varieties
The two-Michelin-starred Acquolina restaurant develops new pairings of Mediterranean cuisine and wines from native grape varieties. The project highlights biodiversity, winemaking identity, and the connection between gastronomy and local territory.
Jessica Rocchi awarded Best Sommelier 2027
Jessica Rocchi, sommelier at the Andrea Aprea restaurant in Milan, received the international recognition from Les Grandes Tables du Monde during the 2026 conference in Mallorca. Her expertise, sensitivity in pairing, and quality service were recognized.
The wine territory as a collective heritage
Scholar and popularizer Armando Castagno emphasizes the importance of preserving the memory of appellations and the work of winemaking communities. Innovation and experimentation must coexist with the protection of the territory’s historical identity.
3. International: businesses, strategies and trends
Rafael Nadal enters the wine world with the El Tenista label.
The former Spanish champion is launching a wine project with Viñas Familia Gil, a Jumilla-based group. The first wine, planned as a limited edition, is part of the project to promote old vineyards in the Murcia region.
Treasury Wine Estates Reduces Brand Portfolio
The Australian group is selling Rosemount, Ingoldby, and Secret Stone to Ag Oatley Wines. The transaction is part of a rationalization plan aimed at focusing resources on approximately 30 priority brands, compared to the current 76, with a focus on international brands such as Penfolds and Daou.
Louis Roederer: The future belongs to identity wines
Frédéric Rouzaud, president of Louis Roederer, sees recognizable, versatile, and often lighter terroir wines as one of the key prospects for the quality market. The group comprises 13 wineries and approximately 1,100 hectares of vineyards in various regions around the world.
Corsica: Patrimonio develops local wine tourism
The Patrimonio appellation, in the Saint-Florent area, encompasses approximately 40 wineries along a 60-kilometer route. The wine tourism offering highlights the Niellucciu, Sciaccarellu, and Vermentinu grape varieties, combining tastings, gastronomy, and the Mediterranean landscape.
Great Britain: Margaux and Chardonnay become proper names
An analysis by The Drinks Business of birth records in England and Wales between 1996 and 2025 identifies Margaux, Chardonnay, and Sherry among the most common wine-inspired personal names. This curious fact confirms the cultural influence of the wine world.
Falstaff: The Best Italian Weissburgunder
The Wein Guide Italien 2027 dedicates a selection to the 50 best Italian wines made from Weissburgunder, or Pinot Bianco, rated using the 100-point Falstaff system.
4. Wine events, culture and wine tourism
Valdobbiadene: 80 Years of the Confraternity
The Confraternity of Valdobbiadene, founded in 1946, is celebrating eighty years of activity with a conference and photography exhibition at Villa dei Cedri. The focus will be on the history of local viticulture and the cultural role of Conegliano Valdobbiadene DOCG. The date indicated in the communications received is conflicting and requires confirmation.
Treviso: Raboso is the star of Rosso Autoctono
On Sunday, October 18th, at 1:00 PM, the Santa Caterina Museum will host a masterclass dedicated to Raboso Piave, led by Stefano Quaggio and Alberto Toffanello. The AIS Veneto event also offers tastings from the Consorzio Vini Venezia wineries.
Valpolicella and Lessinia: itineraries among vineyards and mountains
A wine tourism itinerary through the Valpolicella hills, historic villages, and pastures of Lessinia highlights wineries, landscapes, and local produce. An experience that combines wine, nature, and slow tourism.
Slow Food: Highlands Campaign from October 15th to November 30th
Slow Food Italy promotes events and initiatives in inland and mountainous areas, involving producers, Earth Markets, and local communities. The program spans numerous Italian regions and promotes traditional products, landscapes, and food culture.
5. The QUIDQUID Analysis | What this news means for wine companies
The October 16 news highlights five strategic issues for wineries, wineries, industrial groups, and investors.
- Inventory and liquidity: High inventory levels require more rigorous management of inventory, production planning, and sales.
- Company profitability: the decline in grape prices makes it essential to understand actual costs, product margins, and financial sustainability.
- Generational turnover: the entry of young people represents an opportunity to innovate, strengthen management, and develop new markets.
- Climate adaptation: resistant grape varieties, new training systems, and agronomic choices become decisive factors for competitiveness.
- Enhancement and aggregation: market evolution favors companies capable of strengthening brands, distribution, production scale, and territorial identity.
The FORBUS perspective: today, the value of a winery depends not only on vineyards, buildings, and production capacity. Profitability, the quality of the customer base, financial strength, market positioning, and concrete growth opportunities are increasingly important.
For many companies, this may be the time to consider mergers, the entry of new shareholders, corporate reorganization, or strategic divestiture.
WINE IDEA NEWS · OCTOBER 16, 2026
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Italian wineries, Italian wine producers, and current wine news.
Wine market, Italian wineries, 2026 harvest, investments, sustainability, wine tourism, and events.
Good morning,
WINE IDEA presents the main news from the wine sector for Thursday, October 15, 2026, with updates on Italian wineries, market trends, new production trends, and wine events.
Highlights include the slowdown in wine consumption, new European anti-crisis measures, funding for vineyard sustainability, the growth of wine tourism, and Italian wineries’ strategies for enhancing quality and local produce.
1. Italian Wineries – Production, Innovation, and Investments
Terlano Winery: Vorberg Pinot Blanc defies time. A vertical tasting of nine vintages, from 1997 to 2023, confirms Vorberg’s longevity. This Alto Adige Pinot Blanc maintains freshness, elegance, and balance even after many years of aging, showcasing the winemaking expertise of Rudi Kofler and his predecessor, Sebastian Stocker.
Ruggeri presents Revén, the new Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore. The historic winery, founded in 1950, launches Revén Millesimato 2025, made from grapes grown on ten particularly steep slopes of Valdobbiadene, aged on the lees for six months. The project celebrates the heroic viticulture of the UNESCO World Heritage hills.
ARPEPE: Valtellina Nebbiolo and long macerations. The Valtellina winery confirms a production philosophy based on macerations that can last up to 138 days and long aging. A tasting of six vintages highlights the evolutionary potential of Chiavennasca, the Nebbiolo grown on Alpine terraces.
Barone Rotondo Winery: a 17th-century icehouse becomes a winery. In Barile, in the Vulture area, the restoration of a 17th-century underground structure, up to 17 meters deep, creates new spaces for aging and tasting. A project that combines historical heritage, architecture, and the promotion of Aglianico del Vulture.
Tenuta Mariani inaugurates a new sustainable winery. The property features a structure of over 450 square meters, built according to bioarchitecture criteria. The 2026 harvest is expected to see a 15% increase compared to 2025, with an estimated production of approximately 42,000 bottles. The inauguration will be accompanied by the Filari d’Arte exhibition.
Cordero di Montezemolo: Barolo meets art. Il Tratto, a limited edition of Barolo Monfalletto 2022 created with artist Boban Pesov, is born in the Langhe. The project offers a collector’s box set of three bottles, combining family identity, terroir, and creativity.
Tenute Lu Spada has been recognized by the 2027 AIS Vitae Guide. The Grigiombra Organic Vermentino Salento IGT 2025 received a 90/100 rating and the recognition of Excellence. This result strengthens the Brindisi winery’s quality positioning.
Franciacorta: confirmations and new recognitions from Gambero Rosso. The Vini d’Italia 2027 guide awards 13 Franciacorta wines with Tre Bicchieri, highlights two rare labels, and recognizes Antica Fratta for the first time. The region confirms its production quality, winemaking precision, and capacity for long aging.
Workplace safety: tragedy at a cooperative winery in Abruzzo. In Scerni, in the province of Chieti, a 23-year-old worker lost his life while working with machinery. An investigation is underway to reconstruct the accident. The incident highlights the importance of prevention and safety in wineries.
2. Italian Wine and Oenology – Market, Harvest, Sustainability, and Territory
Brachetto d’Acqui: a positive 2026 harvest. The Consorzio Vini d’Acqui reports healthy, well-structured grapes despite the challenging weather. According to President Ricagno, Brachetto has demonstrated a good ability to adapt to high temperatures.
Lazio: Cesanese is growing, and white wines are gaining popularity. Recent tastings confirm the qualitative evolution of Cesanese, especially in the areas of Piglio, Olevano Romano, and Affile. More elegant and contemporary interpretations are emerging, along with a greater focus on regional whites.
Lazio Roots: five consortia united to promote the region. The project involves 550 wineries and 413 farmers, bringing together Roma DOC, Frascati, Cesanese del Piglio DOCG, Abbacchio Romano PGI, and Ricotta Romana PDO. The goal: to strengthen the recognition and competitiveness of Lazio’s agri-food sector.
Prosecco: 667 million bottles in 2025. The sector confirms its international strength, with over 82% of production destined for export. Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG reaches approximately 98 million bottles, while Asolo DOCG reaches 32 million. Interest in premium labels, reserves, and signature wines is growing.
Bardolino: versatility and tourism to address changing consumption patterns. In the discussion promoted for the Consortium’s centenary, market prospects indicate a decline in wine sales towards 2035, with red wines facing particular challenges. Bardolino is focusing on drinkability, the Italian market, tourism, and new consumers.
Slow Wine 2027: Inventories and weak consumption are holding back wineries. The new guide highlights producers postponing bottling or releasing certain vintages, especially red wines, due to unsold stock. The publication includes 7,809 wines reviewed and 2,059 winery profiles. Signs of vitality are also emerging from the South and from new generations of producers.
Wine and health: Lollobrigida calls for greater promotion. During a visit to the Zorzettig winery in the Colli Orientali del Friuli, Agriculture Minister Francesco Lollobrigida advocated promoting Italian wine, combating the loss of consumers, and strengthening its presence in Asian and African markets. His statements on responsible drinking and health represent a political position: from a health perspective, alcohol consumption poses health risks even at low doses.
MASAF: New call for proposals for vineyard sustainability. Decree No. 381401 of August 4, 2026, introduces funding for climate adaptation, environmental impact reduction, and production sustainability. The deadline for applications for the first year is November 30, 2026. The measure is open to agricultural businesses, cooperatives, and other entities eligible under the legislation.
European Wine Package: Three tools to address crises. EU Regulation 2026/2093 regulates the use of distillation, green harvesting, and voluntary grubbing-up of vineyards under specific market conditions. Support can cover operating costs and financial compensation according to percentages and requirements established by the legislation.
What does terroir really mean? Verticale magazine reopens the debate on the relationship between soil, climate, tradition, and human intervention. The debate highlights how a wine’s identity derives from the interaction between terroir, agronomic choices, and the producer’s sensibility.
3. International wine market – Consumption and exports
United States: Wine and spirits in sharp decline. According to SipSource data presented by Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America, over the past twelve months, overall wine and spirits volumes decreased by 6.7%, while revenues fell by 5.8%. The figures for the last quarter also remained negative: -6.1% in volumes and -5.3% in revenues.
American consumers are increasingly selective. Inflation, changing habits, and market uncertainty are pushing buyers to more carefully evaluate consumption opportunities, price points, and product categories. For Italian wineries, positioning, distribution, and the ability to differentiate themselves are becoming crucial.
Global market: growing importance of value segments. Forecasts presented by the Italian Wine Union Observatory indicate continued difficulties for the popular and premium segments, while the higher-end segments show greater resilience. For Italian wine, enhancing origin, quality, recognizability, and brand identity is becoming crucial.
International wine tourism: Verona on the road to becoming a Great Wine Capital. The seven Veronese winners of the Best of Wine Tourism 2027 will participate in the international competition of the Great Wine Capitals network, scheduled for Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand, from October 18th to 22nd. The initiative promotes wine hospitality models and territorial development.
4. Wine events – Festivals, tastings, tourism and awards
Hostaria Verona – October 16-18, 2026
The Wine and Harvest Festival returns to the historic center with over 100 wineries and approximately 350 labels. Tastings, cultural events, music, and traditional products are expected. The previous edition attracted over 26,000 attendees.
DiVin October in Trentino – October 16-18
Ten events in Valle dei Laghi, Vallagarina, and other Trentino towns, including tastings, trekking, winery tours, food, and events dedicated to Reboro, Teroldego, and local wines.
Native Red in Treviso – October 18
At the Santa Caterina Museum, from 10 am to 7 pm, AIS Veneto presents the red wines of the Colli Euganei DOC, showcasing the Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Carménère grown locally.
Morbegno in Cantina – Over 13,000 participants
The 29th edition, which concluded on October 11th, saw significant attendance. Tastings, cultural visits, and food tours also encouraged traffic to local businesses.
Best of Wine Tourism 2027 – Seven Venetian Excellences
Monteleone21, Monte del Frà, Cantina Bio Annafrancesca, Siridia, Val di Venere, Viaggia e Assapora, and Villa del Brolo were awarded for innovation, hospitality, sustainability, and local development.
Garda DOC Consortium: promotion in Verona, Milan, and Merano. The Consortium is strengthening its presence at autumn food and wine events to increase the denomination’s visibility and strengthen its relationship with industry professionals and consumers.
Valpolicella by motorbike: a new way to discover wine. A 43.6-kilometer itinerary from Verona, through Negrar and Fumane, toward Lessinia, offers an experience amidst the vineyards, landscapes, and terroirs of Amarone and Recioto. An example of integrating slow tourism with food and wine.
5. QUIDQUID – An update on the wine sector
Today’s news highlights a sector undergoing a transformation, but one in which concrete opportunities continue to emerge for wineries, wineries, and investors.
Three aspects deserve particular attention:
- Market and competitiveness: Declining consumption, especially for red wines and in some foreign markets, necessitates a review of commercial strategies, product ranges, costs, and positioning.
- Company Valuation: Product quality, vineyard heritage, brands, wine tourism, and production capacity are important elements in the economic evaluation of a winery.
- Investments and development: sustainability, innovation, mergers and acquisitions can offer new prospects to companies with a sustainable industrial and commercial plan.
For wine entrepreneurs, the challenge is not just to produce quality wine, but to build companies capable of maintaining profitability, enhancing their assets, and competing in increasingly selective markets.
PRESS REVIEW BY WINE IDEA
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News, markets, wineries, investments, and opportunities in the Italian and international wine sector.
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Italian wineries, Italian wine producers, and current winemaking innovations.
Good morning,
News from Italian wineries, wine, oenology, international markets and events
In focus: the Grande Franciacorta project, the slowdown in global exports, European anti-crisis measures, the future of Italian vineyards, and wineries’ strategies for navigating a changing market.
1. Italian wineries: companies, investments, and innovation
Franciacorta – Muratori is targeting €5 million in revenue. The Adro winery expects to reach €5 million in revenue by 2026, with 380,000 bottles sold and a 4% growth rate. The Ho.Re.Ca. channel accounts for 60% of sales, while exports account for 15%. The 2021 Franciacorta Extra Brut Millè earned Gambero Rosso’s Tre Bicchieri 2027 award. The winery has 60 hectares of vineyards.
Friuli – Cantina Rauscedo is rethinking production based on the market. To mark its 75th anniversary, the cooperative hosted the conference “Common Roots, New Challenges,” dedicated to the future of Italian wine. The discussions focused on declining consumption, changing consumer behavior, sustainability, and the need to plan production based on demand.
Gavi – Villa Sparina and the promotion of great white wines. The Moccagatta family continues the project begun in 1994, focusing on the longevity of Gavi, winemaking innovation, and brand identity. This approach is also supported by the work of winemaker Beppe Caviola and a distinctive bottle design.
Langhe – Michela Adriano presents “MA,” the red wine made from secret grape varieties. Debuting on October 16th in Neive, this wine doesn’t disclose the varietals used in the blend. The goal is to attract new consumers, especially young ones, prioritizing the pleasure of tasting over technical expertise.
Valpolicella – Tommasi is showcasing historic Amarone vintages. The “Family Library” is launched, a collection bringing together the 2012, 2017, and 2022 vintages of Amarone Classico DOCG. The project complements the conservation initiatives for older vintages promoted by Bertani, Tedeschi, and Zenato, strengthening the wine’s historical and collectible value.
Alto Adige – Cantina Bozen celebrates 40 years of Huck am Bach. The cooperative celebrates the Sankt Magdalener, produced since 1986, with a commemorative label. This acknowledges the wine’s continued production and its commitment to the Bolzano region.
Trentino – Casa Pisoni presents the 2020 Riserva Extra Brut 60 months. A new Trentodoc Blanc de Blancs made from Chardonnay from the Valle dei Laghi, aged on the lees for 60 months. The 2020 vintage, disgorged in June 2026, expands the company’s reserve line.
Irpinia – Passo delle Tortore inaugurates its winery in Pietradefusi. The company, led by the De Girolamo sisters and Ilaria Facchiano, opens its doors to the public with a project that combines winemaking, family tradition, gastronomy, and local heritage.
Tuscany – Tenute del Cerro introduces tastings with BrainArt. At Fattoria del Cerro in Montepulciano, devices that detect brain activity transform the tasting experience into personalized visual compositions. The initiative is artistic and experiential, not diagnostic or scientific.
Valpolicella – Masi Monteleone21 awarded for wine tourism. The Masi hospitality center won the Best of Wine Tourism 2027 award in the Food and Wine Experiences category. This recognition recognizes the Wine First model, which places wine at the center of the gastronomic and tourism offerings.
2. Italian wine and oenology: market, harvest, and prospects
Lombardy – A “Grande Franciacorta” is proposed. A study by Michele Antonio Fino and Carmine Garzia of the University of Gastronomic Sciences proposes a new umbrella designation, based on voluntary participation, for Lombardy’s classic method sparkling wines made from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The idea aims to foster sustainable growth by creating potential synergies between Franciacorta and Oltrepò Pavese. This is a research proposal, not an existing designation.
Trentino – The 2026 harvest yields fewer grapes, but promising quality. The harvest concluded with generally lower yields than in 2025, with differences among production zones. According to CIA Trentino, the grape quality appears good. The progressive advancement of the harvest, which in some areas began before mid-August, confirms the impact of weather conditions on production decisions.
Friuli Venezia Giulia – Rauscedo produces approximately 95 million vine cuttings annually. The San Giorgio della Richinvelda nursery district represents one of the world’s leading centers for vine propagation, with an estimated production equal to approximately 80% of Italy’s total and a third of the world’s.
Italian Vineyards – Nursery growers are calling for investment instead of uprooting. MIVA and the FVG Vineyard Nursery Association are proposing a national vineyard renewal program, prioritizing reconversion, production efficiency, and climate adaptation over incentives for permanent reductions in vineyard area. This position is part of the debate over production surpluses and declining consumption.
European Union – Three tools to address the wine crisis. EU Regulation 2026/2093, according to the information reported, governs national interventions for crisis distillation, green harvesting, and voluntary grubbing-up. Aid is linked to market conditions such as increased stocks, lower prices, and declining sales. The measures provide compensation and incentives within specific limits, subject to applicable conditions.
Irpinia – Fiano, Greco, and Taurasi are the stars of the 2027 Tre Bicchieri awards. Eleven Irpinia wines received awards out of the 21 Campania wines: seven Fiano di Avellino, two Greco di Tufo, and two Taurasi. The longevity of the white wines, the lengthened aging process, and the pursuit of greater freshness in the Aglianico-based reds stand out.
Langhe – Caritas reports serious problems in seasonal work. According to Caritas Alba, the 2026 harvest revealed worrying conditions for many workers: irregular wages, precarious accommodations, and alleged contractual violations. Reported figures include approximately 6,000 seasonal workers, 16 makeshift settlements, and 4,500 meals distributed. A coordinated intervention by the institutions is required.
Cellar Security – The Antinori theft rekindles the spotlight on inventory protection. Following the theft of fine wines from the Cortona logistics hub, reportedly worth approximately €5 million, the issue of warehouse security has once again become a central theme. Beyond the financial damage, the loss of non-replicable vintages can jeopardize supplies, business relationships, and brand positioning.
Wines for Aging – Rediscovering the Value of Waiting. A cultural reflection highlights the importance of time in the development of great reds. In a market geared toward immediate consumption, preservation, maturation, and patience remain the hallmarks of long-lived wines.
3. International market and world viticulture
Global exports – Sharp slowdown in first half of 2026. According to Trade Data Monitor data analyzed by the Spanish Interprofessional Wine Organization, global exports are down 5.1% in value and 8.1% in volume compared to the first half of 2025.
WORLD WINE TRADE – JANUARY/JUNE 2026
Export value
€15.8 billion
-5.1%
Export volume
4.2 billion liters
-8.1%
Packaged wine recorded a 6.1% drop in value, to 10.63 billion euros, and a 5.3% drop in volume, to 2.24 billion litres.
Data source: Trade Data Monitor / OIVE, according to the news provided.
China – The 47th OIV World Congress looks to the future of wine. In Yinchuan, Ningxia, the International Organization of Vine and Wine Congress brings together international experts and researchers until October 16. The program includes 420 scientific papers dedicated to innovation, sustainability, and transformation in the sector. China is strengthening its role in global wine research and production.
Republic of San Marino – Fortieth anniversary of the Identification of Origin mark. The San Marino wine industry is celebrating the anniversary of the “San Marino” mark with a conference on October 17th in Domagnano, dedicated to the history of local production and future prospects.
4. Wine events, territories and wine tourism
The main events and itineraries for autumn 2026.
16
October
Neive (CN) – Presentation of the “MA” wine
Michela Adriano’s new red wine debuts at Bottega dei Quattro Vini, designed for tastings free from the constraints of varietal information.
17
October
Domagnano – 40 Years of San Marino Wine
Public conference at 9:00 a.m. in the Montelupo Hall, dedicated to the Identification of Origin mark.
18
October
Milan – Barbera d’Asti Wine Festival
At The Westin Palace Hotel, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM, tastings and meetings with producers of the Monferrato denominations.
7–8
November
Milis (OR) – 37th Sardinian Wine Festival
Around 20 wineries and 50 labels, featuring new wines, organic wines, and Vernaccia di Oristano. Tastings, talks, food, and crafts are also planned.
Valtellina – Autumn amidst Nebbiolo, terraced vineyards, and gastronomy. The vineyard landscapes of the Lombardy valley become a destination for slow tourism, with foliage, historic homes, Chiuro wineries, dry stone walls, and local specialties like pizzoccheri.
Piedmont and Tuscany – The foliage highlights the wine regions. Langhe, Roero, Monferrato, and Chianti offer autumn itineraries through vineyards, villages, wineries, and tastings. An opportunity to strengthen the connection between wine production and experiential tourism.
Alto Adige – Wine & Bike and Törggelen on the Wine Road. In Caldaro and the surrounding areas, bike tours, winery tours, and tastings complement the autumnal tradition of Törggelen, featuring new wines and country cuisine until November.
5. The industry picture: what emerges from today’s news
The October 14 review highlights five themes that deserve attention from producers, entrepreneurs, and investors:
- Shrinking markets: Declining global exports require greater attention to pricing, distribution, and profitability.
- Rethinking production: comparing uprooting and vineyard conversion highlights the need for long-term industrial strategies.
- Commercial innovation: Cantina Rauscedo, Villa Sparina, and other companies demonstrate the importance of connecting product, market, and identity.
- Heritage valorization: older vintages, long-lived wines, wine tourism, and new cellar experiences can create development opportunities.
- Economic and social sustainability: worker protection, inventory security, and climate adaptation are becoming increasingly important aspects of corporate management.
The WINE IDEA perspective – FORBUS
The winemaking sector is going through a phase in which simply producing quality wines is no longer enough. It’s necessary to understand the markets, control costs, enhance company assets, and identify new business and investment opportunities.
For wineries and wineries, future value will increasingly depend on the ability to integrate production, organization, distribution, and strategic vision.
FORBUS’s reflection
The wine market is changing, and not all companies are facing this transformation in the same way. For some, the priority is strengthening their sales structure; for others, investing, finding new partners, or preparing for a generational transition.
Before deciding whether to sell, acquire, or develop a winery, it is essential to understand its current value and, above all, its untapped value.
FORBUS supports entrepreneurs and investors in the evaluation, development, management, and sale of wineries, wineries, and beverage businesses.
Further information: FORBUS · Wines and Wine · Agricultural Estates 24
WINE NEWS – October 13, 2026
A wine press review compiled from collected news, with editorial summaries and reorganization for clear reading and improved indexing by search engines and artificial intelligence systems.
Today’s press review is brought to you by WINEIDEA.IT.
See you tomorrow with the latest news on Italian and international wine.
Italian wineries, Italian wine producers, and current wine news.
Good morning,
Italian wineries, wine, oenology, international markets and events
Italian wine: investments, acquisitions, innovation, and regional development. From new wineries in Friuli to Prosecco Superiore, from corporate transactions to resistant grape varieties, to the growth of non-alcoholic beverages: here are the key news from the wine sector, selected and summarized by QUIDQUID.
1. Italian wineries: investments, news, and protagonists
Zorzettig is investing €10 million in the new Cantina Viva in Friuli. In Spessa di Cividale, in the Colli Orientali del Friuli, Annalisa Zorzettig inaugurates a new production facility, in the presence of Minister Francesco Lollobrigida and ICE President Matteo Zoppas. This investment confirms confidence in the future of Friulian wine, despite the market’s challenges.
Ruggeri presents Revén, the new Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG. The 2025 vintage is made from grapes grown on ten particularly steep slopes in Valdobbiadene. Aged on the lees for over six months, the project boasts aromatic complexity and a label that reveals the vineyards’ origins.
Cantina Rauscedo celebrates 75 years of cooperation. On October 9th and 10th, the Friulian cooperative celebrated the anniversary with the event “Le Radici del Vino” (The Roots of Wine). The event focused on viticultural research, vine cuttings, production quality, and the value of cooperation, with a masterclass led by Master of Wine Gabriele Gorelli.
Tommasi celebrates the history of Amarone. The family presents the Family Library, featuring three historic vintages of Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOCG and a Special Edition of the 2017 vintage. The goal is to highlight the longevity, identity, and prestige of this great Veronese red.
Franciacorta, Monte Alto focuses on Pinot Noir. Alberto Tribbia recounts the journey of his winery, founded in 2014 in Clusane d’Iseo. Three hectares of vineyards and approximately 15,000 bottles annually, with a focus on quality and sustainability.
In Oltrepò Pavese, Tenuta Montelio, a blend of history and the Metodo Classico. Located in Codevilla, the winery preserves medieval monastic origins and ancient underground chambers. This historical heritage complements winemaking and the promotion of the local area.
Irpinia, Passo delle Tortore inaugurates its own winery. In Pietradefusi, the project led by the De Girolamo sisters and Ilaria Facchiano combines family tradition, local wines, hospitality, and food and wine culture.
In Calabria, Antonella Lombardo is reclaiming historic vineyards. After a career as a lawyer in Milan, she returned to Bianco, on the Ionian coast, to reclaim abandoned plots and promote the local winemaking tradition.
Puglia’s Women in Wine network is growing. Around 70 regional professionals are working to strengthen the role of women in production, winemaking, communications, and wine tourism.
2. Italian wine, oenology and the market
Acquisitions in the wine industry: major groups are active, but Gaja denies LVMH. Angelo Gaja denies negotiations for the sale of the company to the French group. Meanwhile, the industry’s consolidation continues, with deals involving Montevetrano, Jermann, La Massa, Bucci, Pico Maccario, Biondi Santi, Isole e Olena, and Attems. Generational change and market difficulties are encouraging new acquisition opportunities.
PIWI grape varieties in DOC and DOCG appellations: a bipartisan parliamentary proposal. Gian Marco Centinaio and Antonella Forattini propose a regulatory change to allow the use of resistant grape varieties in Italian appellations, in compliance with the specifications. Currently, 36 PIWI varieties are registered in the National Register, divided equally between white and red grapes.
Riesling Italico: a reflection on positioning from the Oltrepò Pavese region. Slovenian sommelier Simona Česen highlights how the same grape variety is perceived differently depending on its name: Riesling Italico, Laški rizling, or Graševina. This demonstrates the importance of communication and marketing identity.
Minister Lollobrigida is focusing on promoting Italian wine. During the inauguration of the Cantina Viva in Zorzettig, the Minister advocated investing in promotion and value creation, rather than focusing on reducing production as a response to market difficulties.
European regions are preparing the Mantua Declaration for PDO and PGI products. On October 15, the AREPO association will present a document to strengthen the protection, competitiveness, and economic development of Geographical Indications, in preparation for the European Action Plan scheduled for 2027.
Valtellina, ARPEPE celebrates the long macerations of Nebbiolo. The historic Valtellina winery presents a winemaking approach characterized by macerations that can last up to 138 days, enhancing the character of Chiavennasca and mountain viticulture.
Leonia degli Albizzi Frescobaldi, a pioneer of Italian winemaking. As early as the 19th century, she experimented with the Metodo Classico in Tuscany and designed a gravitational cellar in Pomino. Her wines won a gold medal at the 1878 Paris Exposition.
Castagner presents DIECIeLODE, a grappa specifically designed for tiramisu. The Treviso-based distillery offers a barrel-aged grappa with an aromatic profile designed to complement this famous Italian dessert, with notes of vanilla, cocoa, coffee, fruit, and spices.
3. Awards and award-winning Italian wines
Sardinia’s Cannonau Zibbo is among Italy’s 50 rare wines. Gambero Rosso recognizes the wine from Cantina Canneddu in Mamoiada, founded by Marco Canneddu in 2015, recognizing its territorial identity and limited production.
Sicily, Wine Sicily honors Ansaldi and Musita. At the Palermo event, which attracted 14,000 attendees, Cantina Ansaldi of Marsala received recognition for its 2020 Brut Millesimato, while Musita of Salemi was recognized for its 2025 Passopasso made from Zibibbo grapes.
Umbria, gold medal for Mi.Le.Ghi. Lilium della Serra, an IGT white produced in Gubbio with the 2025 harvest, won gold at the Mondial des Vins Extrêmes, a competition dedicated to heroic viticulture.
Alto Adige, 95 Falstaff points for Cantina Kaltern. The Kunst.Stück Merlot-Cabernet Riserva Südtirol DOC 2022 received 95 points in the 2026 evaluation, standing out for its structure, elegance, and aromatic complexity.
4. International: new consumption and perspectives
ProWein 2027 is investing in non-alcoholic beverages. The Düsseldorf event, running from March 7 to 9, 2027, will feature ProWein Zero, an area dedicated to alcohol-free wines, alcohol-free sparkling wines, alternative aperitifs, and innovative beverages. Up to 300 products are scheduled for tasting, along with professional meetings and insights into new consumption habits.
Slovenia and Croatia: Graševina as an example of commercial development. An international comparison of Riesling Italico demonstrates how denomination, perception, and communication can influence the success of the same grape variety in different markets.
European Geographical Indications, towards new development policies. The AREPO initiative in Mantua aims to strengthen the economic and territorial impact of certified products in future European Union strategies.
5. Wine events and wine tourism
Hostaria, XII Wine Festival – Verona
October 16–18, 2026
The historic center is transformed into an open-air winery with tastings, producers, consortia, music, and food culture.
Wine Melodies – Alto Adige
October 16 – November 6, 2026
Ten concerts in castles, cellars, and historic residences, accompanied by tastings of South Tyrolean wines.
Wine Festival – Wine Tourism Fair, Bivongi
October 24–25, 2026
The first edition features tastings, masterclasses, meetings, food and wine tastings, and activities to promote Calabrian wine tourism.
Milan hosts a grand tasting on October 17th. An updated selection of 445 wineries and 820 wines has been announced, including Barolo, Barbaresco, Franciacorta, Amarone, Brunello, and numerous emerging appellations. A web app allows you to browse labels and arrange meetings with producers.
Sicily, Autumn in the Cellar. The IRVO project enjoyed good participation in its October 3rd and 4th stops in Vittoria and Butera, continuing on October 10th and 11th between Etna and Nebrodi. The initiative promotes wine tourism outside the summer season.
Maierà, wine, chestnuts, and chili pepper. From October 23rd to 25th, the Calabrian village will host tastings, traditional cuisine, shows, and tours of the Chili Pepper Museum.
6. QUIDQUID | Trends to Watch
Five particularly significant themes for entrepreneurs, wineries, and investors emerge from the news of October 13th:
- Acquisitions and generational turnover: increased attention is being paid to wineries with heritage, brands, and growth potential, even when faced with management challenges.
- Industrial investments: the Zorzettig case demonstrates that some companies continue to invest in quality production facilities and positioning.
- Innovation and sustainability: PIWI grape varieties and new winemaking techniques open up new prospects for Italian viticulture.
- New consumers: the growing interest in alcohol-free wines and alternative beverages requires a rethinking of commercial strategies.
- Wine tourism and business development: hospitality, culture, events, and local identity can contribute to revenue diversification and the overall value of wineries.
FORBUS’s reflection
The wine market is changing, and not all companies are facing this transformation in the same way. For some, the priority is strengthening their sales structure; for others, investing, finding new partners, or preparing for a generational transition.
Before deciding whether to sell, acquire, or develop a winery, it is essential to understand its current value and, above all, its untapped value.
FORBUS supports entrepreneurs and investors in the evaluation, development, management, and sale of wineries, wineries, and beverage businesses.
Further information: FORBUS · Wines and Wine · Agricultural Estates 24
WINE NEWS – October 13, 2026
A wine press review compiled from collected news, with editorial summaries and reorganization for clear reading and improved indexing by search engines and artificial intelligence systems.
Today’s press review is brought to you by WINEIDEA.IT.
See you tomorrow with the latest news on Italian and international wine.