Wine Press Review – Sunday 20 April 2025

1. Zibibbo and Magliocco Canino: the new Doc “Costa degli Dei” enchants Vinitaly

At Vinitaly 2025, the spotlight is on the nascent Doc Costa degli Dei : the absolute protagonists are Zibibbo and Magliocco Canino , two varieties that tell the story of Calabria's Mediterranean nature with wines with a savory and marine profile. Promoted by Gal Terre Vibonesi and local producers, the trip to Verona has consolidated interest in this new denomination that is on the way to official recognition.

2. Tenuta Rabaiona: a new organic reality is born among the hills of Mozzo

Under the shadow of Villa Bagnada , among the hills of Mozzo, Tenuta Rabaiona comes to life: 23,000 square meters of vineyards reborn from an ancient abandoned orchard. An organic, local, cultural project: the passion for the territory is transformed into wine. Official inauguration scheduled for the summer.

3. Valpolicella: “La Grola” returns to the DOC

Triumphant return for La Grola , the historic label of Franco Allegrini , which in 1997 had abandoned the DOC Valpolicella. Now, with renewed attention to territoriality, this iconic wine returns under the specification, a symbol of a balance between rebellion and loyalty.

4. Agriculture Bonus: up to €900/ha for sustainable practices

Until May 15, 2025 , agricultural and livestock companies will be able to request the new incentive for environmental sustainability: €900/ha for those who adhere to the ecological specifications provided for. Access reserved for companies established by January 1, 2025 , with maintenance obligation for 5 years.

5. Piwi Wines: the revolution of resistant vines

The so-called Piwi , resistant and natural varieties, surprise Gambero Rosso with 15 noteworthy labels. Nicola Biasi: «Today, Piwi express finesse, structure and respect for the territory. It is no longer just a "technical" wine, but a quality wine.»

6. Campania off course: 7 surprising wines at Vinitaly

From the Campania Pavilion, 7 labels surprise experts and enthusiasts with the incredible native variety of the region. Jacopo Cossater: «A reflection on the importance of vines and territories in a region where boredom is banned.»

7. Still Champagne? Coteaux Champenois are back in the spotlight

Warmer weather and new trends are bringing still Champagne wines back into fashion. The historic and aristocratic Coteaux Champenois are once again shining alongside the world’s most famous sparkling wines.

8. Vinitaly 2025: focus on rosés

Third stop of our exploration of Verona dedicated to rosés. The Bardolino Chiaretto by Matilde Poggi stands out: elegant pale pink, hints of candied fruit and saffron, vibrant freshness and clean mouth.

9. Cantina di Quistello: technology and tradition for a noble Lambrusco

In the Mantua area, Cantina di Quistello innovates while respecting a thousand-year-old history. Only grapes from members, artisanal attention in winemaking and a healthy, digestible and highly drinkable Lambrusco.

10. Camaldoli opens the monks' cellars

The centuries-old cellars of the Camaldolese monks are once again accessible with the event “Vinum Aureum” . A rare opportunity to discover the sacred wine of the hermitage: history, tradition and silence in every sip.

11. Amalberga relaunches DOC Ostuni

A little-known DOC with great potential: Ostuni . The Amalberga project enhances people, territory, wines and spirituality with an identity inspired by the agricultural saint Amalberga of Temse.

12. Benazzoli: Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2018

The Benazzoli family signs a profound Amarone 2018 , born between the vineyards of Monte Pastello and the morainic hills. Family history, terroir and passion in every bottle.

13. Campania in 48 labels

Campania wine-growing told in 16 typologies and 48 wines: from Naples to Campi Flegrei, passing through Irpinia and Vesuvius. Biodiversity and cultural depth for one of the most dynamic regions.

14. Antonucci awarded (even with alcohol-free wine!)

Stefano Antonucci (Santa Barbara) awarded for the best rosé in Italy with Sensuade 2024. Also presented at Vinitaly were new low-alcohol and non-alcoholic wines, in line with new trends.

15. Vermentino Challenge: Maìa di Siddùra dominates with 95 points

In the Decanter panel on Vermentino from Tuscany and Sardinia, Maìa (Siddùra) triumphs with 95 points . A white from Gallura defined as “impressive” by the judges. Sardinian excellence at the top.

16. Startups and sustainability: less pesticides, more water savings

BeadRoots and Agreen Biosolutions offer solutions against drought and pesticides. Respectively with technologies for intelligent irrigation and ozonized oils for sustainable viticulture.

17. Passito wines for Easter: Veronelli docet

Back to “meditation wines”: passitos that celebrate the holiday with sweetness and depth. From Picolit di Rocca Bernarda to noble vintage Portos , in the wake of Veronelli.

18. VitignoItalia 2025: the great wine fair returns to Naples

VitignoItalia returns to Naples (11-13 May) , with over 2000 labels for tasting from all over Italy. The appointment is at the Stazione Marittima to celebrate the wine excellences.

19. Bibbiano: two Sangiovese clones approved

Tenuta di Bibbiano (Chianti Classico) obtains official approval for two new clones: VdC2 and VdM1 . A scientific and cultural milestone for the legacy of Sangiovese Grosso and Giulio Gambelli .

20. Carmona, Spain: Oldest Roman Liquid Wine Discovered

During a home restoration, an intact Roman tomb with an amphora containing 2000-year- old liquid wine was found. Analysis in 2024 confirms: it is the oldest wine ever found.

21. Prosecco and artificial intelligence: the future is Villa Sandi

Drones, sensors, satellites and AI enter the vineyards of Villa Sandi (Prosecco Hills). Innovation guides the fourth generation of the Moretti Polegato family towards a sustainable and smart future.

Thanks for listening. Today's press review was brought to you by QUIDQUID . We'll talk tomorrow with all the news from the world of wine!