ZONIN1821 shows where Italy is leading in winemaking innovation
Innovation in packaging and naturally lower ABV wines is taking centre-stage at next week’s ZONIN1821 London portfolio tasting.
Italy is known for its winemaking heritage – think of centuries-old grape varieties or prestigious fine wines commanding high prices on the international market.
ZONIN1821, as a centuries-old company now present in more than 140 countries, is one of the foremost ambassadors for that heritage. The annual ZONIN1821 London portfolio tasting is always a showcase for the history and expertise behind Italian wines. This year’s event – taking place on Tuesday 27 January – is no different; the company has, for instance, revealed a masterclass that will show the ageing potential of fine Italian wines.
Yet there is also space to look to the future. In fact, one of the key themes in its portfolio tasting this year is innovation. As consumption patterns change in markets like the UK and winemakers face new challenges in the vineyard, ZONIN1821 is meeting the moment and proving that Italy can spearhead innovation. Indeed, it is revealing two new products in the Innovation Room at its portfolio tasting.
Innovative new releases
No and low alcohol wines are an ever more important facet of the industry, and ZONIN1821 is seeking to redefine the landscape of lower-ABV wines with its ZONIN Early Harvest range. The new products meet the demand for wines which are lighter in alcohol, while employing the company’s expertise to ensure high quality.
Two wines from Pavia IGT in Lombardy will launch the range this year: ZONIN Pinot Grigio Early Harvest and ZONIN Pinot Nero Early Harvest. As the names might suggest, instead of undergoing dealcoholisation, the wines are made using grapes picked early. The natural process means a fresher and fragrant flavour profile as well as that all-important lower ABV.
With consumers looking to moderate alcohol both at home and when drinking out, the wines will be available both to retailers and to hospitality operators. ZONIN1821 has revealed the RRP for each as £9.80.
ZONIN1821 is further committing to its future in the lower ABV sector with a new format for its Limoneto Spritz (which sits at 6% ABV). Its release in 250 millilitre cans will dovetail the trends of no and low alcohol drinking and convenient, sustainable alternative packaging. The cans, intended for both multiple and independent retail, will sell at an RRP of £5.00.
The Limoneto Spritz launched into Morrisons in 2024 in a 750ml bottle. Inspired by Italian culture of aperitivo hour, the spritz blends Charmat method Italian sparkling wine with Sicilian lemon juice. Designed to be poured over ice, it is a strong proposition for retailers looking towards the summer season.
Partner Content
“The launch of our new range of naturally lower-alcohol wines, alongside our investment into new formats, marks a pivotal moment for ZONIN1821 in the UK,” says Simon Thomas, managing director of ZONIN1821 in the UK, ahead of the tasting showcase. “At a time when our industry faces considerable challenges, with shifting consumer preferences and economic uncertainties, agility in responding to market demands is essential.
“With these new launches we aim to broaden the appeal of wine and meet the demands of what is an increasingly diverse and health aware audience,” he continues. “The introduction of our new ZONIN Early Harvest range and canned wine-based drink offers both convenience and sustainability and provides options for those seeking moderation without compromising on quality or the social experience.
“We see significant opportunities across our trading channels for these additions to our portfolio; wines which will capture the zeitgeist for those choosing to consume less alcohol, or to consume in a more meaningful way.”
A packed tasting
The new products, however, are far from the only excitement on offer on the day. Although ZONIN1821 was founded in 1821 in Veneto, over seven generations the company’s remit has expanded considerably, and the full range is on show at the tasting.
Its north Italian roots are still strong: under the ZONIN brand, it is still the largest Italian family company producer of Prosecco. Yet it also owns other prestigious estates across the country: Ca’ Bolani in Friuli, Castello del Poggio in Piedmont, Oltrenero in Lombardy, Castello di Albola and Rocca di Montemassi in Tuscany, Masseria Altemura in Apulia and Principi di Butera in Sicily.
The 180 wines and 31 producers at the tasting will also represent the company’s global portfolio, with France, Spain, South Africa, Chile, Argentina, New Zealand, and Lebanon all on display.
Last year, Thomas described the tasting as a “must-attend for the hospitality and trade sector, offering guests the unique opportunity to speak directly with the winemakers behind our wines.” This year, a similarly wide range of winemakers and experts will be on hand to speak with visitors, whether they are interested in historical properties or the latest innovation.
The tasting takes place from 11am to 5pm on Tuesday 27 January at Haberdashers’ Hall, 18 West Smithfield, London, EC1A 9HX.
Trade and media visitors can register to attend here. The venue is wheelchair accessible; anyone with additional needs can contact the organisers in advance via eventsuk@zonin1821.com
Related news
Chateau Ste. Michelle overhauls packaging following acquisition
Age and beauty: why this Spanish producer is a favourite with the Spanish royal household
