Discover Cantina Zaccagnini where Art and Wine Collide in Central Italy
On my first visit to Abruzzo, I visited Cantina Zaccagnini at their Abruzzo Winery in Central Italy. Cantina Zaccagnini produces some of the most-sold Pinot Grigio in the US. You can find it in many retail stores in New York City. Most people know it for its Pinot Grigio as it has an instantly recognizable bottle for its signature “stick” and distinctive light refreshing flavor profile. Due to this, Zaccagnini has played a crucial role in establishing Abruzzo’s presence on the global wine stage.
However, they produce many native grape wines, such as Montepulciano D’ Abruzzo, Trebbiano, and Pecorino. Their dedication to sharing broadly their native grapes with the world is evident in their pursuit of new single-varietal styles and continuous refinement of their craft.
I had the pleasure of meeting their partners at Grupo Argea and sitting with them at a genuinely Abruzzese lunch in NYC a while back. I wanted to visit as I heard about their passion for craft, art, and wine. Hence, I discovered a legacy producer with eyes on the future, including a set of light and refreshing sparkling wines that I fell in love with.
Hence, after a two-hour drive from Rome, my first stop in the region of Abruzzo was to visit Cantina Zaccagnini, nestled amidst Abruzzo’s sun-kissed hills, unveils a winery that’s both a historical gem and a beacon of innovation.
Stepping into Cantina Zaccagnini was an immersive experience where art and the spirit of Abruzzo intertwine. The winery’s architecture and curated art collection create a captivating atmosphere, reflecting the region’s rich cultural heritage. Passion and commitment to art are deeply rooted here. I was captivated by some of the pieces and how they appeal to their own history. A mural in one of their barrel rooms showcases the Zaccagnini history from the foundation date until the 2000s and how the ups and downs are portrayed to remember the challenges on their path.
During my visit, I was hosted by Angelo Ruzzi, Sales and Export Manager of Azienda Agricola Ciccio Zaccagnini, who had been working for the company for around 20 years. He directed me through the wine barrels and art pieces carefully selected and aligned with Zaccagnini’s vision at different phases of their history.
Zaccagnini’s commitment to sustainable viticulture shines through beyond aesthetics and hospitality. Their use of minimal sprays and no chemical fertilizers speaks volumes about their dedication to preserving the land and producing wines of exceptional character.
Witnessing Zaccagnini’s evolution firsthand reveals a winery at the forefront of Abruzzo’s wine renaissance. With the recent acquisition by Grupo Argea, one might think the family affair will go away. However, Angelo Ruzzi, mentioned ” We partnered with them -Argea- because we can keep doing what we do best, and that’s doing wine.” Of course, some things have changed, but for the better.
Currently, their portfolio caters to all palates, showcasing the versatility of the region’s signature grape, Montepulciano d’Abruzzo. Moreover, Zaccagnini offers a wide range of wines. From fruit-forward options to more intricate, age-worthy selections with elegant tannins and medium to full-body styles. On this regard, its portfolio also extends to single vineyard and sparkling wine selection. Since the consumption of sparkling wines has risen in the USA, this contemporary offering is a great option. I can only oversee conquering more American palates offered at an affordable price point.
Cantina Zaccagnini is currently working on creating a new hospitality experience. Plans include developing a larger room to celebrate engagements. In the meantime, if you are ever in Abruzzo, you can visit their tasting room and enjoy their Abruzzese wine selection. You can also witness their love and connection to art, deeply intertwined with the vineyard and their winery.
Learn more about Cantina Zaccagnini Abruzzo wines since 1978
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