A Quick History of Italian Wine
Written by - Cult Wines Team
This deep dive traces the evolution of Italian wine from Bronze Age domestication and Greek influence through Roman mass production, monastic preservation, Renaissance regulation and the quality revolution of the twentieth century. Along the way, it explores how trade, geography and regulation shaped one of the world’s most diverse and commercially powerful wine cultures.
From the rebellion of the Super Tuscans to the rise of DOC and DOCG classifications, and from extraordinary grape biodiversity to Italy’s multiple sparkling identities, the story reveals a country that has constantly balanced scale with craft. Italian wine emerges not as a single tradition, but as a living system of adaptation, innovation and place-driven identity.
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News in brief
Wine Paris 2026 Reflects Industry Recalibration Amid Structural Shifts
Wine Paris 2026 drew more than 65,000 trade visitors and 6,500 exhibitors, underscoring an industry adapting to structural change. Global wine consumption has fallen to its lowest level since 1961, with red wine losing share to white, rosé and sparkling. Research presented at the show showed younger drinkers entering fine wine through social networks rather than traditional career-driven progression, while retention of female consumers remains a challenge. Innovation was prominent, premium de-alcoholised wines and sustainability-focused practices signalled a shift in both production and positioning as producers recalibrate for evolving demand.
Cristina Mercuri Becomes First Italian Woman Master of Wine
Cristina Mercuri has been awarded the Master of Wine title, becoming the first Italian woman to achieve the qualification. Tuscan-born and based in Milan, she is founder and CEO of Mercuri Wine Club, a consultancy and education academy supporting wine businesses and professionals with positioning, communication and training across traditional and digital channels. Formerly a lawyer specialising in M&A and intellectual property, she switched careers in 2015 and completed the MW programme after passing Stage 2 in 2022. Her final research paper analysed portrayals of women in Italian wine propaganda in Enotria (1922–1942), urging more critical, stereotype-aware wine communication.
Sotheby’s Fine Wine and Spirits Sales Rise 12% in 2025
Sotheby’s reported US$127.5m in fine wine and spirits sales in 2025, up nearly 12% year on year and its fourth-highest total on record, with wine making up the vast majority at US$106m. The house pointed to a broad, international buyer base, with 35% of buyers new to Sotheby’s and participants coming from a record 63 countries. Europe was the strongest region by revenue at US$56.7m, split between France (US$35.4m) and the UK (US$21.3m). Sotheby’s also highlighted the continued strength of its marquee wine partnerships, including the Hospices de Beaune charity sale and a series of Napa Valley auctions.
What we’re drinking
2017 Domaine de la Romanee-Conti Montrachet Grand Cru
Mengyan Zhu, Fine Wine Advisor - Cult Wines
Annual Production: 2,698 bottles
I had the privilege of tasting this at a friend's gathering. The bottle was opened at 12:50 and allowed to breathe for about half an hour before the cork was put back, and it was placed in a cool cellar. From the very first pour, the aromatics were incredibly expressive, almost like perfume. Elegant floral notes of jasmine and a hint of lily intertwined with vibrant, juicy citrus and stone fruit: lemon verbena, pomelo, fragrant pear, and white peach. This evolved to reveal layers of creamy brioche, white sesame, refined saline minerality, and a distinct sense of seaside breeze, a powerful sense of energy, which gradually became more unctuous and textural with time.
The wine is full-bodied with a grand, expansive structure. The acidity is precise, powerful, and driving. On the palate, it's round and velvety, yet the intensity of energy is remarkable. How to describe it? It’s akin to that sudden surge of vitality you feel after taking a sip of an energy drink during a workout. A sensation that jolts through you, brimming with dynamism.
2017 is an outstanding vintage for White Burgundy; for the 2010s, focus on 2017 and 2014 (specifically for White Burgundy). Patience with decanting is crucial. Open the bottle well in advance to assess its condition. If it seems ready, recork and store it in a cool place. If it appears closed, simply let it breathe in the bottle and check again later. Patience is key!
Now might be a good time to stock up while DRC prices are relatively affordable. It's truly worthwhile!
Our fine wine feature
English Sparkling Wine: Rising from the Chalk
Written by - Jonathan Stevenson, EVP North America - Cult Wines
English sparkling wine has moved from curiosity to serious contender. Planted on the same chalk seams that run beneath Champagne, the vineyards of Kent, Sussex and Hampshire are now producing wines that regularly win blind tastings, major international awards, and critical acclaim. With over 1,100 vineyards, 4,800+ hectares under vine and sparkling sales up 187% since 2018, this is no passing trend. It is a category coming of age.
In this deep dive, we explore the data behind the rise, the producers shaping the conversation, and the French investment validating England’s terroir. Featuring Luke Spalding of Everflyht Estate, the piece examines regenerative viticulture, Champagne house expansion into England, and the commercial realities facing a young but ambitious region. The result is a clear-eyed look at one of the most dynamic developments in global fine wine.
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Explore & travel
Discovering Heritage & Craft in South Africa’s Franschhoek Valley
Written by - Hidde Hoogendam, Senior Relationship Manager, Benelux - Cult Wines
Introducing Rickety Bridge Winery in South Africa’s Franschhoek Valley, a region shaped by centuries of winemaking tradition and dramatic mountain landscapes. From the diverse terroirs of Stellenbosch and Swartland to the historic roots of Franschhoek, this journey explores how culture, gastronomy and viticulture intertwine to create wines of character and clarity.
At the heart of the story are three standout expressions from Rickety Bridge: The Bridge, a structured Bordeaux-style blend; The Sleeper, a refined and powerful Shiraz; and The Crossover, a contemporary take on South Africa’s signature Pinotage. Together, they reflect a philosophy grounded in balance, heritage and thoughtful modern winemaking, offering both collectors and travellers a deeper perspective on the evolution of South African wine.
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