Wine press review for Friday, July 17, 2026!

Good morning,

QUIDQUID presents a new summary of the main news from the Italian and international wine sector.

Markets, wineries, exports, climate change, new strategies, regions, and events: these are the most interesting topics of the day.

ITALIAN WINERIES

Zonin 1821: Potential investors interested in some assets

The process of negotiating the resolution of the Zonin 1821 crisis continues. According to rumors, there have been expressions of interest in a significant portion of the assets of the historic Vicenza-based winemaking group. The company has confirmed discussions with potential investors interested in several estates, specifying that evaluations are still ongoing. The key issues remain production continuity and worker protection.

Angelini Wines continues to invest in premium wine

Angelini Wines & Estates confirms its growth strategy in the premium segment and hospitality. Following its acquisition of a stake in the Arnaldo Caprai winery, the group comprises six wineries, approximately 1,700 hectares of land, 460 of which are vineyards, and a total production of approximately 4 million bottles. The group's wineries include Bertani, Val di Suga, and Puiatti. The strategy focuses on quality in a market characterized by oversupply, especially in generic wines.

Poggio Scalette: Il Carbonaione 2021 showcases the Greve in Chianti region.

Carbonaione di Poggio Scalette is a Sangiovese produced from a single historic parcel on the Ruffoli hill, in Greve in Chianti. The estate extends over approximately 40 hectares, 15 of which are vineyards, in a terroir characterized by altitudes ranging from 350 to 550 meters. This wine aims to express territorial identity, elegance, and longevity.

Bruno Ceretto: Wine, Culture, and the Future of the Langhe

Bruno Ceretto reflects on the evolution of the Langhe and the relationship between wine, the region, restaurants, and tourism. For the historic Piedmontese entrepreneur, wine consumption must remain linked to culture, research, and moderation. High-end restaurants also represent a major driver of attraction for the region.

Zito Winery renews its identity and positioning

The historic Zito Winery in Cirò presents five new labels and a repositioning project aimed specifically at the HoReCa channel and national and international markets. The "Beyond the Threshold" project encompasses production, image, packaging, naming, and communications, maintaining its ties to the Cirò DOC region.

Siddùra interprets the trend of red wines served chilled

The Sardinian winery Siddùra is looking to international markets and emerging consumer habits. Among its offerings is "Eros," a red wine designed to be served between 10 and 12 degrees Celsius. The project reflects a growing trend toward fresher, more versatile wines, while maintaining its connection to the identity of Gallura.

Torre del Pagus: A family history at the foot of Mount Taburno

The Torre del Pagus winery in Paupisi is deeply rooted in the local area and its family roots. A winemaking history built around people and the desire to keep alive a project born over twenty-five years ago on the slopes of Taburno.

International awards for Italian wineries

The 2026 Città del Vino International Wine Competition honored numerous Italian wineries. Awards went, among others, to Cantina dei Produttori Nebbiolo di Carema and Fratelli Marco di Loranzè, as well as several wineries from Susegana and the Maremma region of Tuscany. Over 1,400 wines from 11 countries participated in the competition.

ITALIAN WINE AND ITALIAN ENOLOGY

Italian wine exports: first signs of recovery, but 2026 remains negative.

In the first four months of 2026, Italian wine exports reached approximately 2.34 billion euros, a decrease of 6.8% in value and 3.7% in volume compared to the same period in 2025.

The United States, Italy's largest market, continued to decline by 15.4% in the four-month period, although April showed the first signs of improvement. Germany and the United Kingdom recorded declines of 6.8% and 6.1%, respectively.

However, some markets, such as Brazil, China, and Russia, are growing. This situation confirms the need for Italian companies to further diversify their target markets and strengthen their international positioning.

Angelo Gaja: The future lies in "producing less and better."

According to Angelo Gaja, the wine sector must address changing consumer and market trends by focusing more on quality. The strategy for the future can be summarized in the principle of "producing less and better," strengthening the value of Italian wine, its territories, and its production identity.

Antinori, Gaja, Boscaini and Maculan: wine is not an alcohol like any other

At VinoVip Cortina, four leading figures in Italian winemaking—Piero Antinori, Angelo Gaja, Sandro Boscaini, and Fausto Maculan—discussed the industry's major challenges.

Among the key themes: climate change, evolving consumption, and the need to better communicate the cultural value of wine. The message that emerged was that wine should not be considered simply as an alcoholic beverage, but as part of the culture, conviviality, and history of local areas.

Climate change: Prosecco looks ahead to 2100

A study promoted by the Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG Consortium analyzes the effects of climate change on Treviso viticulture up to 2100.

Among the hypothesized scenarios are harvests brought forward by up to a month and increased stress on the vines, especially due to rising nighttime temperatures. Soil management will be one of the key tools for preserving the balance of the vineyards and the identity of the denomination.

Hail in Vallagarina: over 250 hectares of vineyards affected

The violent hailstorms that hit Vallagarina and Val di Gresta caused significant damage. In the Isera, Nogaredo, Mossano, and Borgo Sacco areas, over 250 hectares of vineyards were affected, with some areas completely damaged. Extreme weather events have become one of the main structural challenges for viticulture.

Wind, heat, and drought are hitting Romagna's agriculture.

In Romagna, too, the agricultural sector is facing the effects of climate change. Strong winds have damaged vineyards and crops, while heat and drought are increasing the challenges of managing water resources and protecting agricultural workers.

Worker well-being and productivity in wine companies

Sustainability in the winemaking industry is not just about the environment and the economy. The "Wine & Work" project, promoted as part of Equalitas' activities, highlights the importance of social sustainability and the emotional well-being of workers. Companies that invest in a quality work environment can also benefit productivity.

A course for Trentodoc specialists is born

The University of Trento and the Edmund Mach Foundation are launching a new annual course dedicated to the production of Classic Method sparkling wines, with a focus on Trentodoc. The goal is to train technicians and professionals capable of integrating scientific knowledge, technological innovation, and the valorization of mountain production.

UNESCO Prosecco Hills: Tourism is booming

Seven years after UNESCO recognition, the Prosecco Hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene are experiencing significant tourism growth.

Between 2019 and 2025, arrivals increased by 35.4% and overnight stays by 28.8%. International growth is even stronger, with foreign arrivals increasing by 48.1%. The region is progressively evolving from a predominantly productive area to an international destination linked to wine, landscape, and tourism.

New institutional campaign to promote Italian wine

Filming for the new corporate ad dedicated to Italian wine has concluded at the Poggio Le Volpi winery. The tagline is "Wine is our time – We cultivate what unites." The goal is to showcase wine as an expression of Italy's human, cultural, and landscape heritage, while also promoting responsible consumption.

Italian agri-food: record exports at 72.4 billion euros

The Italian agri-food industry continues to strengthen its international presence. According to data released by ICE, exports in the sector reached a record value of €72.4 billion, confirming the global appeal of Made in Italy food products.

Summer wine: interest in fresher styles is growing

High temperatures are also impacting consumption patterns. Lighter wines, served chilled and paired with summer cuisine, may be a response to new consumer demands. This trend extends not only to whites, rosés, and sparkling wines, but also to certain types of red wines.

INTERNATIONAL

Australia: 2026 harvest at its lowest since 2000

The 2026 Australian grape harvest stands at around 1.27 million tonnes, the lowest level since 2000 and 19% less than 2025.

The decline is particularly affecting red grapes and is linked to both difficult weather conditions and the planned reduction in production to meet weak global demand. According to Wine Australia, four consecutive below-average harvests indicate a possible structural rebalancing of the sector.

Champagne: Maison Deutz presents Amour de Deutz 2015

Maison Deutz presents Amour de Deutz 2015, a new interpretation of its Blanc de Blancs prestige cuvée. For the first time, the wine is a blend of Chardonnays from seven Grand and Premier Crus of Champagne. After separate vinification of the crus and numerous blending trials, the wine ages for nearly ten years in the Maison's historic cellars in Aÿ.

The best wine of the Città del Vino Competition comes from Portugal

The 2021 Quinta da Gaivosa Porto LBV, produced by Domingos Alves de Sousa in the Douro region, achieved 95 points and the Grand Gold Medal at the 2026 Città del Vino International Wine Competition, establishing itself at the top of the competition.

EFI brings its export management model to Spain

Edoardo Freddi International launches "Hiberica," a new company dedicated to the international development of Spanish wineries. The project aims to support companies in defining export strategies, building distribution networks, and enhancing their brands. The initial portfolio includes eight Spanish companies with over 700 hectares of vineyards and a combined commercial presence in more than 60 countries.

WINE EVENTS

Vinitaly and the City: Prosecco Superiore DOCG takes center stage in Calabria

The Sibari Archaeological Park hosts the third edition of Vinitaly and the City, with approximately 140 wineries, seven consortia, and 2,000 labels for tasting. Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG will be present with Borgo Molino, Bottega, Colvendrà, and Sommariva, along with masterclasses and dedicated tastings.

Wines at Sunset: wine, art and culture on Etna

Cantina Gambino presents "Wines at Sunset – La Dolce Vita sull'Etna," scheduled for July 24th and 31st and August 7th. Three events dedicated to the intersection of wine, art, culture, and the local area on the slopes of Etna.

Morbegno in the Cellar 2026

Fifty historic wineries will be featured in Morbegno in Cantina 2026. The event will take place on the weekends of September 25-27, October 2-4, and October 9-11. The historic center will become a meandering itinerary through tastings, courtyards, palaces, cloisters, and cellars, showcasing the wines and heroic viticulture of Valtellina.

The Hilltop Island: Wine, Music, and Territory

The "L'Isola in Collina" festival continues, with a program that combines wineries, food, live music, and youth-focused initiatives. Several events feature local wineries and producers, transforming wine into a means of bringing people together and promoting the region.

Castello del Terriccio celebrates traditional Tuscan cuisine

On July 25th, Castello del Terriccio will host the 35th edition of "La Cucina Povera." The event will focus on food quality, the protection of the agricultural landscape, biodiversity, and the cultural value of local produce, with a round table discussion and tasting dinner.

THE PICTURE OF THE DAY

Today's news describes a wine sector undergoing profound transformation.

On the one hand, export difficulties, oversupply in some segments, and the increasingly evident effects of climate change are emerging. On the other, more structured companies continue to invest in quality, acquisitions, hospitality, training, new markets, and premium positioning.

The message running through much of the day's news is clear: the future of wine increasingly hinges on the ability to produce with balance, enhance the identity of local areas, interpret new consumer trends, and diversify markets.

In this scenario, wine tourism, sustainability, education, and culture become strategic tools to strengthen the value of the Italian wine industry.

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See you at the next edition.

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

See you tomorrow.