Wine Idea's wine news for December 10, 2024!

1. Six Vintages of Langhe Nebbiolo by Giuseppe Rinaldi

A “small great wine”, the Langhe Nebbiolo by Giuseppe Rinaldi, son of thirty-year-old vines in the Menzione Geografica Aggiuntiva Ravera (and then integrated with Bussia grapes), is told through a vertical of six vintages. Not a simple “fallout wine” but a Nebbiolo with a distinct personality, capable of being appreciated already a few months after release, but of giving its best after a few years, expressing aromatic fullness and complexity.

2. The charm of Emidio Pepe's wines and Sandro Baliva's cuisine

A vertical tasting of Montepulciano d'Abruzzo by Emidio Pepe, one of the most iconic Italian producers, confirmed the importance of time in the creation of a great wine. Sixty years of history and a philosophy of respect for the nature of Abruzzo coexist in bottles capable of telling the story of the land and tradition, accompanied by the "sentimental" cuisine of Sandro Baliva, who has signed dishes in perfect harmony with the aromatic nuances of these long-lived wines.

3. Ten rosés under 20 euros for Christmas (Gambero Rosso)

Often overlooked, rosés represent a balance between freshness and complexity, ideal for accompanying long festive dinners. Gambero Rosso has selected ten labels under 20 euros, excellent for a Christmas gift or to accompany a full meal. A choice that invites you to overcome prejudices and discover the versatility of these wines.

4. “Do you know what’s in your drink?”: Controversy over EU campaign

A campaign presented to the European Parliament raises the question of the knowledge of the ingredients in alcoholic beverages. MEP Paolo Inselvini (FdI-ECR) raises doubts about the initiative, calling it misleading and penalizing for producers, asking for clarifications from the European Commission. The debate on labels and transparency remains central in the definition of wine policies at the EU level.

5. The Buffon Farm: tradition and innovation in the Alta Marca Trevigiana

Founded in the 1960s by Giorgio Buffon, this winemaking company is a testament to how counter-current intuitions can create excellence. In an area traditionally dedicated to white wines, Buffon introduced a red grape variety from France, demonstrating that tradition and innovation can blend to create unique, high-quality products.

6. Making wine in Bordeaux: the accounts between vineyard and cellar

In France, there is a debate about the minimum cost of wine to protect producers and guarantee them a fair income. In the Bordeaux region, producing a bottle costs from 3.33 to 6.14 euros. A debate about "minimum prices" and sales below cost is underway, in an attempt to stem the economic crisis that is gripping the sector, also driven by the decline in consumption and excess supply.

7. Wine and hail: the insurance storm

With climate change, extreme hailstorms are multiplying, putting vineyards in Europe at risk. The world of wine is facing the issue of insurance against increasing adverse weather conditions. Companies are faced with the need for new defense strategies, including policies, networks and alert systems, to protect crops and investments.

8. A glimmer of optimism for 2025 according to Jean-Marie Cardebat

Despite global difficulties, including inflation, geopolitical tensions and changes in consumer habits, according to Jean-Marie Cardebat (Université de Bordeaux - Inseec, president of Euawe), 2025 could mark a recovery. The expert sees positive signs, inviting not to give in to pessimism but to focus on sustainability, new markets and long-term strategies.

9. Wine is also a question of bacteria (Study by the University of Bologna)

After the recent study by the University of Bologna on the soil microbiome and the terroir of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, data emerge that confirms: soil bacteria influence the organoleptic characteristics of wine. A step forward in understanding the complex alchemy between soil, vine and glass.

10. A Romagna grape variety under 20 euros to discover

In Romagna, the Assirelli family continues the tradition of vineyards cultivated with minimal intervention and organic practices. Among Albana and other vines, a surprising red stands out, at less than 20 euros, which testifies to the varietal richness of Italian wine, often hidden behind more famous denominations.

11. Trentodoc in the running: the history of the Moser Winery

The winery founded by cycling champion Francesco Moser, now led by cousins Carlo and Matteo, represents Val di Cembra and Trentodoc. A meeting of history, sport and viticulture, where sweat, effort and determination are found in the glass, among fine bubbles and a strong bond with the Trentino territory.

12. The future of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano: the “Pievi”

The “Pievi”, new Additional Geographic Units, will offer a premium typology of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano from 2025. A territorial characterization project that has its roots in history, strengthening the bond with ancient churches and communities, creating a fascinating narrative between wine, art and territory.

13. Barolo & Barbaresco World Opening in the Southwest USA

The initiative of the Enoteca Regionale del Barolo and the Consorzio di Tutela Barolo Barbaresco seeks to conquer new markets in the Southwest of the United States. A strategic action in a context of international difficulty, focusing on the fame and solidity of the great Piedmontese reds.

14. Sud Top Wine 2024: Southern Italy is the protagonist

With over 500 labels and 69 award-winning wines, Sud Top Wine 2024 confirms the enological vitality of Southern Italy. A traveling event (Taormina Gourmet On Tour) that highlights the great diversity of the South and its ability to face challenges, enhancing native varieties and unique terroirs.

15. Cantina di Montagna in Lerma: discussion in the Council

The “Cantina di Montagna” in Lerma (Alessandria) returns to the agenda of the Council of the Union from Tobbio to Colma. A building that has been at a standstill for some time, for which solutions and projects are being sought for its relaunch, in an area that has historically made wine a resource and a symbol.

16. Gallura Award: Monti and Badesi wineries on board the Moby

As part of the Gallura wine award, given to two Gallura wineries, “Il Vermentino” of Monti and “Li Seddi” of Badesi, Moby renews its role as partner. A partnership between sea and vineyard, to promote Sardinian excellence and spread it on Italian tables and beyond.

17. Cantina Frentana: a model cooperative

Cantina Frentana unites 600 winemakers and manages 1,450 hectares of vineyards, with 20% organic. A path of sustainability and resilience, despite the decline in production due to downy mildew. A business model that looks to the environment, growth and economic balance, with increasing revenues (2%) and a focus on the quality of the wines.

18. Eleven labels for a happy Christmas

A Christmas of emotions, stories and territory: eleven bottles chosen by Identità di Vino to celebrate the holidays with taste, stories of producers and vineyards that invite you to travel. Among wines, sparkling wines and even a whisky made in Italy, an invitation to discover, savor and share.

19. Moby with Cantine Monti and Badesi: Gallura Award on board

Moby Fantasy hosted the award ceremony of the Premio Gallura, assigned to the Monti and Badesi wineries, which obtained excellent scores at Vinitaly. A sign of how the shipping company is a bridge to spread Sardinian wine culture throughout Italy.

20. Cantine Aperte at Christmas: a toast along Italy

Throughout the month of December, over 70 wineries of the Movimento Turismo del Vino offer tastings, markets, lunches and dinners with the producer. An opportunity to combine the Christmas atmosphere with the discovery of the territory, giving quality experiences to wine lovers and families.

21. Vinetia Tasting – Veneto in the Glass, the 2025 edition in Santa Lucia di Piave

AIS Veneto chooses the Santa Lucia di Piave fair (Treviso) for the fourth edition of Vinetia Tasting (March 23, 2025). A larger location to host a greater number of wineries and offer an even more engaging tasting experience, with wines selected by the Vinetia Guide.

22. Vinacria - Ortigia Wine Fest: Sicily in the spotlight

From December 14th to 16th in Syracuse Vinacria - Ortigia Wine Fest will take place, with over 60 Sicilian wineries, masterclasses, events, insights. An event designed to tell the richness of Sicilian wines, their history, their diversity and the passion of the producers.

23. Diesel Farm launches new website

Renzo Rosso, founder of OTB and Diesel Farm, presents the new portal of his farm. A digital story that combines nature, beauty and wine, where craftsmanship meets innovation, celebrating sustainability and the bond with the hills of Vicenza, preserved from cementing.

24. Maxima Laude Award: 100 Excellences at Palazzo del Campidoglio

On December 11, 2024, the Maxima Laude Award ceremony will be held at the Sala della Protomoteca in Campidoglio, celebrating 100 organizations, associations, and personalities who have distinguished themselves for the common good. An opportunity to promote dialogue, reflection, and fundamental values of society.

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