Category: Wines of Italy

Sicilia En Primeur Returns for Its 21st Year: Showcasing the Best of Sicilian Wine

Once again, Sicilia en Primeur returns this year, an esteemed event organized by Assovini Sicilia that annually draws journalists from around the globe to the island. From May 6 to 10, a delegation of 100 journalists representing Italy, various European countries (including France, Poland, Sweden, Germany, and Norway), as well as non-EU nations (such as Canada, the United States, Japan, China, South Korea, Israel, Brazil, and the United Kingdom), will journey through Sicily to explore and document the island’s rich food, wine, and cultural heritage.

It is no coincidence that the claim of the event, now in its 21st edition, is “The Culture of Wine in Sicily: A Thousand-year Story that Looks to the Future”, a slogan that sums up the message that Assovini wants to launch this year.

“Wine, explains Mariangela Cambria, President of Assovini Sicilia, besides being an agricultural or commercial product, is an essential element of universal culture that spans centuries and civilizations. The culture of wine today also translates into a culture of travel. It is a journey that begins in and sets off from the vineyard, from working the land; it goes through an annual cycle and arrives in the glass, in the bottle, and on tables all over the world. Sicilia En Primeur will tell journalists about part of this journey”.

“I’d like to thank the municipal administration of Modica for their hospitality and for having seized this opportunity,” Cambria emphasizes. “Sicilia en Primeur will, in fact, be a showcase for this splendid baroque town that journalists will have the opportunity to get to know, visit and talk about in their articles.”

The event kicks off on May 9th at 9 am with a technical tasting at the Castello dei Conti di Modica along with four talks on current topics, including the tools by which wine can be communicated to new generations, an in-depth look at the new State labels to protect Made in Italy, neuromarketing and consumer psychology, as well as a talk on the numbers of Assovini Sicilia.

At 5:30 p.m., there will also be a conference at the Teatro Garibaldi in Modica about the culture of wine understood as informed and conscious drinking, as promotion of the territory through wine tourism, as protection of the environment through increasingly sustainable good practices. Among the speakers, the Master of Wine, Andrea Lonardi, will talk about the “S Factor: The Uniqueness of the Sicilian Wine Continent”, followed by speeches by Dario Stefàno, president of the Wine and Oil Tourism Centre (Lumsa University), and by Antonello Maruotti, professor of Statistics (Lumsa University) on “The South innovating through events, e-commerce and new hospitality models for wine tourism”. Dr Sara Farnetti, Ph.D in Pathophysiology of Metabolism and Nutrition, will shift the spotlight to “Wine Culture: For Informed and Conscious Consumption.” Finally, Alessio Planeta, President of the SOStain Sicilia Foundation, will speak about “The Sustainable Future of Sicilian Wine.” Luciano Ferraro, vice-director of Corriere della Sera, will chair the conference.

This day will end with the gala dinner organized in collaboration with La Sicilia di Ulisse. This association brings together Sicilian excellence in the hospitality, gastronomy and viticulture sectors. The menu will be in charge of chefs Accursio Craparo of Radici, Vincenzo Candiano of Locanda Don Serafino (1 Michelin star), Giuseppe Causarano and Antonio Colombo of Votavota (1 Michelin star) and Giuseppe Torrisi of Cortile Santo Spirito (1 Michelin star).

“This year, Sicily has been named the 2025 European Gastronomic Region,” says Cambria. “To underline the successful partnership between food and wine at Sicilia en Primeur, the chefs of Sicilia di Ulisse will share their culinary art at the final gala dinner devoted to the producers.”

The event will conclude on Saturday, 10 May, again at the Castello dei Conti, with wine tasting from the 57 producers who are members of Assovini Sicilia and who will present their labels to journalists.

“I would like to thank the Istituto Commercio Estero and our sponsors, without whom this great event would not be possible; an event which has been shining a spotlight on Sicily for 26 years, attracting the attention of the national and international food-and-wine press,” concludes Mariangela Cambria. “Sicilia en Primeur is an eagerly awaited event that in recent years has contributed significantly to consolidating the image of a Sicilian wine-growing continent dedicated to excellence.”

The Twelve Pievi: How Tuscany’s Historic Wine Region Is Redefining Excellence After Three Decades

In the heart of Tuscany, where time moves at its own leisurely pace, the historic town of Montepulciano celebrates a remarkable milestone in 2025. While thirty-one years may seem minor against the backdrop of a town preserved since the 16th century, the evolution of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano during this period tells a story of extraordinary growth and transformation. Since establishing the Anteprima event in 1994 to showcase market-ready vintages, the Consortium has seen production volumes and membership nearly double. The 31st edition of the Preview returns to honor its rich heritage while embracing the future, continuing the legacy of an appellation with winemaking traditions dating back to Etruscan times.

The Renaissance of Traditional Terroir
The custodians of Montepulciano’s viticultural heritage have achieved a masterful balance between innovation and tradition, preserving the essence of their craft while adapting to modern challenges. Their meticulous stewardship extends beyond the vineyards to the entire ecosystem—landscapes, architecture, and cultural practices are carefully maintained as living tributes to ancestral accomplishments.

The 2025 market debut of the prestigious Pieve classification marks the culmination of years of dedicated research and development. Following the Consortium’s approval in 2023 and the Italian National Wine Committee’s final endorsement on October 10, 2024, these exceptional wines have reached shelves with the publication of regulations in the February 5, 2025 Official Journal. The 2021 vintage—the first to carry the distinguished Pieve designation—exemplifies the region’s commitment to geographical authenticity and production excellence.

These twelve Additional Geographic Units (UGAs) honor ancient parish divisions that date back to the Roman and Lombard eras, creating a direct connection between contemporary winemaking and historical territorial organization. Only wines produced with at least 85% Sangiovese grapes grown and bottled by the same estate within a specific Pieve boundary may bear this prestigious label. Quality control remains paramount, with the Consortium establishing an internal commission of technical experts to ensure compliance with rigorous specifications before certification.

Industry professionals surveyed by Nomisma project retail prices for these premium offerings to range between 40-70 euros, with exceptional bottles commanding 70-100+ euros. The market acknowledges the unique value proposition, with respondents emphasizing Montepulciano’s “strong identity and tradition,” “superior quality,” and the “prestige of the brand” as key differentiators. Wine enthusiasts now can explore these distinctive terroirs through comparison tastings, enhanced by the Consortium’s innovative ’12 Pievi’ web series documenting the unique characteristics of each historical parish zone.

Montepulciano’s forward-looking approach extends beyond geographical classification to embrace sustainability initiatives. As the first Italian denomination to receive Equalitas certification in May 2022, the region upholds strict environmental standards by measuring carbon and water footprints while promoting socio-economic equity. A sophisticated network of 50 meteorological stations provides critical data for ongoing climate adaptation strategies.

Where History and Viticulture Converge
Nestled on limestone hills that divide the Val di Chiana from Val d’Orcia, Montepulciano stands as a living testament to centuries of artistic, architectural, and agricultural achievement. Visitors wandering its cobblestone streets encounter Etruscan relics, Renaissance palazzos, ornate religious sanctuaries, and thriving artisanal traditions. The magnificent Piazza Grande, with its 17th-century Duomo, serves as the gravitational center, while the San Biagio sanctuary forms a stunning gateway to the iconic cypress-lined valleys that define the quintessential Tuscan landscape.

The Consortium has enhanced the visitor experience through the introduction of the “Pilgrimage to Montepulciano’s Pievi,” an immersive journey combining walking tours of historic parish territories with evening tastings of their distinctive wines. This multisensory experience invites travelers to engage deeply with the region’s terroir—physically traversing the landscape while savoring its enological expressions.

The economic significance of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is profound, with the industry valued at approximately one billion euros in combined assets, revenue, and production capacity. Average annual production value reaches 65 million euros, forming the cornerstone of a local economy in which 70% of activity is directly related to viticulture. Of the 16,500 hectares of municipal territory, vineyards occupy 2,000 hectares—including 1,200 hectares dedicated to Vino Nobile DOCG and 390 hectares to Rosso di Montepulciano DOC. The industry supports roughly 1,000 permanent jobs alongside seasonal positions spread across 90 bottling operations and 250 grape producers.

The 2024 market performance highlights continued growth, with 6.7 million bottles of Vino Nobile and 2.3 million bottles of Rosso reaching consumers. Export markets account for 65.5% of production, with Germany (37%) and the United States (28%) leading international demand. Particularly noteworthy is the increasing preference for organic certification, representing 44.7% of domestic sales and exceeding 50% of international transactions.

For wine lovers seeking authentic experiences, Montepulciano offers an unrivaled destination where history, culture, and exceptional winemaking converge. Whether exploring medieval alleys, participating in guided tastings, hiking through vine-covered hills, or embarking on parish pilgrimages, visitors are immersed in traditions that honor the past and embrace the future. The Pieve classification represents more than a marketing distinction; it is a profound reconnection with historical identity—a perfect expression of a region that continues to evolve while remaining true to its timeless character.

A Timeless Sanctuary for Wine Lovers
Situated gracefully on gently undulating limestone slopes that form a natural boundary between Val di Chiana and Val d’Orcia, Montepulciano is a living testament to Tuscany’s rich oenological heritage. This captivating medieval settlement occupies a privileged position among Italy’s most celebrated wine regions, embodying the essence of cultural identity. From ancient Etruscan cultivation methods to modern winemaking innovations, Montepulciano’s terroir has seen the evolution of viticulture over millennia, solidifying its status among Tuscany’s revered wine sanctuaries.

More than just a production zone, Montepulciano serves as an immersive open-air museum chronicling the region’s enduring connection to viticulture. The town attracts discerning enophiles and cultural travelers from around the globe, each seeking the harmonious blend of historical significance and vinous excellence that defines this remarkable destination.
The charming historic center reveals layers of architectural and artistic achievement, including prehistoric Etruscan artifacts, magnificent Renaissance palazzos, consecrated sanctuaries adorned by master painters, classical performance venues, and thriving workshops that preserve traditional craftsmanship. Every cobblestone and archway contribute to Montepulciano’s unique charm, inviting visitors to lose themselves in its timeless allure. Here, amidst this splendid tapestry of historical and aesthetic treasures, wine serves as the ultimate ambassador—a masterful interpreter of Tuscany’s magnificent landscape. Through each glass of this noble elixir, visitors embark on a sensory journey that bridges past and present, terroir and tradition, celebrating Montepulciano’s enduring legacy as a sanctuary for those who value the profound relationship between place, culture, and exceptional winemaking.

Filippo Magnani

Liz Palmer’s Exclusive Interview with Barbara Widmer of Brancaia + Wine Tasting Notes

Born in 1971 in Zurich, Switzerland, Barbara Widmer grew up surrounded by a family that placed great importance on cooking, dining, and enjoying fine wines. This passion for food and wine was deeply ingrained in her upbringing and further strengthened in 1980, when her family acquired the Brancaia estate in Tuscany. Initially, Brancaia served primarily as a vacation retreat, and Barbara, as a young woman enjoying life in the city, could hardly envision herself living in rural Tuscany.

After completing high school, she pursued architecture at the University of Zurich, drawn by her creative interests. However, after four semesters, Barbara faced a creative crossroads. She retreated to the family estate in Tuscany for two months, coinciding with the grape harvest—a transformative experience. This stay ignited her passion for wine, shifting her career path entirely.

Barbara returned to Zurich to earn a wine merchant diploma and gained hands-on experience during a year-long internship at Domaine des Balisiers, Switzerland’s largest organic winery at the time. She worked equally in the vineyard and cellar, discovering her commitment to organic viticulture. Building on this foundation, she pursued oenology studies at the University of Wädenswil, setting the stage for her future in winemaking.

In 1998, while completing her oenology degree, her father, Bruno Widmer, acquired the Brancaia estate in Maremma, an emerging wine region along the Tuscan coast. For her thesis, Barbara developed a strategic plan titled How to Build Up the Brancaia in Maremma Winery, which became the blueprint for the estate’s growth. The Maremma project marked the beginning of her professional winemaking career, which she embraced with enthusiasm.

Since the late 1990s, Barbara has lived at the winery, managing Brancaia’s 3 properties: Castellina in Chianti, Radda in Chianti, and Maremma. Today, she leads a team of 60 people and works alongside her family, who play key roles in supporting the business.

Her brother Andreas, an entrepreneur and former marketer, contributes to communication and digital strategy. Michael, her other brother and a lawyer, provides expertise in financial and legal matters. Barbara’s two children, Nina and Nicolas, are part of the third generation contributing to the family business. Nina actively manages Brancaia’s social media, while Nicolas often helps in the Osteria’s kitchen. Additionally, Mara, Andreas’ daughter, supports the vinotheque in Zurich with marketing efforts alongside her studies.

Despite the challenges and unpredictability of winemaking, Barbara thrives on the variety and complexity of her work. “What I love most about winemaking,” she explains, “is that no two days are ever the same. Nature dictates our path, and we must respond thoughtfully to create the best expression of each vintage. It’s endlessly fascinating.”

Under her stewardship, Brancaia has flourished, producing wines that reflect her commitment to quality, sustainability, and respect for the land. Barbara Widmer’s story is one of transformation, dedication, and a profound passion for her craft, which continues to inspire her every day.

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Liz Palmer: Which influential women in the wine industry have inspired you throughout your journey?

Barbara Widmer: When I started my journey in the wine industry, there were not many women in leading winemaking roles, especially in Italy.

However, I was fortunate to work with people who valued skills and passion over gender. One of my biggest influences was Elisabetta Foradori. She has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to quality and terroir-driven winemaking. Her ability to merge tradition with innovation while remaining true to her vision is something I deeply admire.

Today, I see many talented women shaping the future of wine, and that in itself is inspiring.

Liz Palmer: Could you share a particularly memorable experience or achievement in your illustrious career?

Barbara Widmer: One of the most defining moments in my career was realizing that uncompromising quality and organic viticulture are not just compatible, but actually reinforce each other. Over the years, I’ve witnessed how respecting nature results in healthier vines and better, more authentic wines. Seeing Brancaia grow from my parents’ passion project into one of Tuscany’s leading wineries has been incredibly rewarding.

Liz Palmer: What recent technological innovations have you and your team integrated into your winemaking process?

Barbara Widmer: At Brancaia, we continuously refine our processes to enhance quality while staying true to our philosophy of respecting nature. Recently, we have further optimized our precision viticulture practices, using detailed soil mapping and climate data to make more informed decisions in the vineyard. This allows us to work in harmony with each parcel, ensuring the best possible expression of our terroir. In the cellar, we are constantly experimenting with different materials—such as concrete and cocciopesto-terracotta—to understand how they interact with different grape varieties and enhance the expression of our terroir. This ongoing exploration helps us refine our approach, always aiming for balance, elegance, and authenticity in every bottle.

Liz Palmer:  How do you ensure sustainability and uphold environmental responsibility in your vineyard and winery operations?

Barbara Widmer: Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do at Brancaia. Being fully organic for years is just the starting point—we constantly strive to go further. In our vineyards, we nurture soil health through cover crops, minimize water usage, and completely avoid chemical herbicides. In the winery, we focus on energy efficiency, waste reduction, and the continuous improvement of our environmental footprint. For us, sustainability is not a trend but a long-term commitment to producing wines that respect both nature and future generations. This commitment extends to every detail, from investing in energy-efficient equipment to using sustainable packaging solutions. Most recently, we reconfirmed our Equalitas certification, a rigorous standard that evaluates environmental, social, and economic responsibility, ensuring that we operate transparently and with a lasting dedication to sustainability.

Liz Palmer: What are your perspectives on the No and Low Alcohol Wine Revolution, and how has your wine estate adapted to this burgeoning movement?

Barbara Widmer: I understand the appeal of the No and Low Alcohol trend, as consumers become more health-conscious and look for alternatives. However, at Brancaia, we focus on crafting wines that are deeply connected to the Tuscan terroir, and this includes maintaining their natural balance and structure. We believe that responsible consumption of high-quality wine is key. Rather than altering our wines to fit this movement, we encourage an approach that values moderation and appreciation of authentic, well-crafted wines.

Liz Palmer: How do you and your team stay abreast of the latest trends and advancements in the wine industry?

Barbara Widmer: We stay connected to the global wine scene through constant exchange with our partners, sommeliers, and importers worldwide. Wine fairs, industry events, and tastings are essential, but so is simply listening to our customers. Our team is always open to innovation—whether it’s refining our winemaking techniques, improving sustainability, or elevating the experience we offer to wine lovers. However, while trends come and go, our commitment remains on producing excellent wines which are true to their origins.

Liz Palmer: What advice would you offer to young women aspiring to enter the wine industry?

Barbara Widmer: Winemaking is not a nine-to-five job—it requires passion, patience, and a lot of hard work. But if you truly love it, there is nothing more rewarding. Thirty years ago, the wine industry was much more male-dominated, but today, talent and dedication matter more than anything else. My advice is to gain as much hands-on experience as possible, stay curious, and surround yourself with people who challenge and inspire you. And, of course, having a great team and a supportive family makes all the difference.

Liz Palmer: Are there any other comments or statements you would like to add?

Barbara Widmer: At Brancaia, we are committed to continuously improving, both in terms of wine quality and sustainability. Our mission is to craft wines of excellence that reflect the Tuscan terroir while staying true to our core values: commitment to excellence, harmony and modern elegance. We believe that wine is about creating unforgettable shared moments, and that’s what drives us every day.

Wine Tasting Notes

Brancaia Riserva Chianti Classico 2020

This Brancaia Riserva Chianti Classico 2020 displays a vivid ruby hue. It offers a captivating bouquet of dark cherries, crushed violets, complemented by cedar, spices with hints of leather and tobacco. On the palate, it is beautifully balanced with velvety tannins, lively acidity, with layers of lush ripe cherries, dark plum and dried herbs. Subtle oak integration adds depth, leading to a refined, long finish. This elegant and age-worthy Riserva is a testament to the finesse and power of the 2020 vintage.

93 Points
Liz Palmer

Brancaia Ilatraia 2020

The Brancaia Ilatraia 2020 is a bold and captivating blend that showcases the excellence of the Maremma Toscana region.

In the glass, it reveals a deep ruby color with alluring aromas of blackberries and blueberries, intertwined with hints of chocolate and herbs. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and impressively structured, with firm yet refined tannins, a vibrant acidity, and layers of blackberry compote, licorice, and dark chocolate, leading to a powerful and persistent finish. This is an elegant and age-worthy wine that will continue to evolve over the next decade.

94 Points
Liz Palmer

For further details: www.brancaia.it

Academic Study Forecasts Wine Industry Revival by 2026

A recent study by the University of Bordeaux and the University of Verona suggests the wine industry could see a recovery starting in 2026. The research used Italian wine producer Masi as a case study. A few weeks ago, an academic research paper “Resilience and preparation for the next cycle of global wine consumption. Masi: an original case study” was presented in Milan by Jean-Marie Cardebat, Professor of Economics at the University of Bordeaux, Director of the ECOr Research Department, Affiliate Professor at INSEEC Grande École and Director of the Wines & Spirits Chair in Paris, together with Davide Gaeta, Professor and lecturer in wine business economics and agri-food markets and competitiveness – Department of Management – University of Verona.

Professor Cardebat explained that economic cycles have always influenced global wine consumption. While current economic and geopolitical challenges have caused a decline in the market, he believes that controlling inflation could lead to a turning point in 2026. He also predicted that 2027 might mark the start of a recovery phase with sustained growth for the wine sector. However, he emphasized that this recovery would not replicate past market conditions. Changes in consumer behavior and new trends will shape the next phase of the industry.

Professor Cardebat also highlighted the importance of premiumization, with consumers increasingly seeking quality and high-value wines. He stressed the need for wineries to invest in brand development and enhance consumer experiences, such as wine tourism, which has grown significantly in recent years. He also noted that emerging markets might drive a renewed interest in red wine, which has declined in Europe.

Professor Gaeta outlined key factors for resilient wine companies to thrive in international markets. These include having a strong organizational structure, transparent information management, and strategies to diversify product offerings. He emphasized the importance of flexibility in responding to changing demand, both in grape supply and product range. Gaeta also pointed out that segmenting distribution and maintaining a diverse presence in global markets can help mitigate risks and create growth opportunities.

Additionally, Professor Gaeta noted that competitiveness in the wine industry can be strengthened through attention to corporate identity, strategic marketing, and innovation focused on sustainability. Both professors agreed that adapting to new consumer preferences and market conditions will be essential for the wine industry to navigate future challenges and opportunities.

Wine Review: Tedeschi Amarone della Valpolicella 2021 – Liz Palmer

Tasting Notes:

This wine is a Symphony of Flavors, showcasing a deep, dark inky red hue that captivates. On the nose, it reveals an intricate bouquet of dark cherry, dried fig, and grilled herbs, intertwined with subtle hints of dark chocolate and spice. The palate is a harmonious blend of savory and sweet, with flavors of bacon, dark cherry, and dried figgy fruit, with a touch of dark chocolate and spice. The wine is full-bodied and balanced by velvety tannins and a long, lingering finish that leaves a lasting impression and wanting more.
93 Points
Liz Palmer

Food Pairing:

This Amarone is a versatile companion to a variety of dishes. Its robust flavors pair beautifully with roasted venison, beef daube, and leg of lamb. For a more traditional pairing, try it with polenta dishes or pasta with a rich tomato sauce. The wine’s complexity also makes it a delightful match for aged cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano or Gorgonzola.