Italian wines from organic or biodynamic grapes

Piedmont had sent 67 wines and was therefore the region represented the most, followed by Tuscany that had sent 60 wines for competition. The gold medals for the best organic wines were given to four manufacturers: San Zeno of Fasoli Colognola ai Colli (Veneto), Villa Guani of the brothers Rovero of Asti (Piedmont), L’Autentica of the cellars of Notaio die Maschito (Basilicata), and Col di Pietre Rosse of the company Bulichella di Suvereto (Tuscany).

This year, for the first time, the same committee as for "The Mayor’s Selection 2008" - the competition organised by Città del Vino - with over 50 judges from all over Europe evaluated the samples. The organic wines received very good result: 73.65% of the samples sent received a score higher than or equal to 80/100, and therefore will be included in the guide "Vini da Vedere." In addition to the gold medals, 25 silver medals and 79 special mentions were awarded. On June 26, together with the “Selection of the Mayor”, the awards ceremony will take place in Rome.

Italy to check Brunello wine production standards

ROME (AP) — Italy has set up a panel of experts to check if Brunello di Montalcino meets production standards, following an investigation into whether some of the wine might have been cut with other grape varieties, the Agriculture Ministry said Monday.

Minister Luca Zaia said the step was taken to protect consumers worldwide and safeguard the reputation of one of Italy's best-known wines, which is supposed to be made from only sangiovese grapes.

Three wine experts will be on the committee, a statement from the minister said.