Cantina Zaccagnini: Tradition, Innovation, and Sustainable Winemaking in Abruzzo

Cantina Zaccagnini is an esteemed winery located in Bolognano, in the heart of Abruzzo, Italy, known for producing high-quality wines that reflect the region’s rich viticultural heritage. Founded in 1978 by Marcello Zaccagnini, the winery began as a small family-run business. Over the decades, it has grown into an internationally recognized brand, renowned for its dedication to sustainable agriculture, traditional winemaking techniques, and innovative approaches to production.

Tradition, Innovation and Sustainability

Cantina Zaccagnini‘s philosophy is deeply rooted in tradition. For one, the winery has remained family-run, and this continuity helps ensure that traditional values and practices are passed down through generations. They share the belief that great wine starts in the vineyard. Therefore, the winery focuses on native grape varieties, especially Montepulciano d’Abruzzo for red wine and Trebbiano for white. By working with indigenous grapes, they preserve the heritage of the Abruzzo region, expressing the natural characteristics of the terroir in every bottle. While they embrace modern technology, Zaccagnini keeps many artisanal winemaking techniques. For example, they rely on careful hand-harvesting and traditional fermentation methods that allow the grapes’ true characteristics to shine. Additionally, Zaccagnini incorporates local culture into their unique branding and packaging, symbolized by the distinctive bottles, adorned with small vine branches, in their “Il Vino dal Tralcetto” (wine from the little branch) line. This links their product to the Abruzzo region’s artistic and agricultural traditions.

While deeply connected to its roots, Cantina Zaccagnini is also forward-looking.The winery uses advanced fermentation techniques, incorporating temperature control and innovative methods to ensure consistent quality across different vintages. They have also invested in modern technologies and research to continually improve its winemaking processes while remaining true to the traditions of Abruzzo. For example, Zaccagnini employs modern technologies like drones and sensors to monitor vineyard health, optimizing harvest times and improving grape quality. This helps them maintain high-quality standards while efficiently managing resources. Additionally, they are constantly experimenting with different grape varietals, aging techniques, and blends. Zaccagnini also works with universities and research institutions to stay on the cutting edge of wine science. Their approach balances sustainability, technological advancement, and creativity, making them a forward-thinking player in the industry.

Traditional respect for the land and sustainability is also a core part of Zaccagnini’s philosophy, as they strive to maintain a balance between nature and viticulture, reflecting long-standing regional traditions. The winery prioritizes environmental protection and minimal intervention and has implemented environmentally friendly practices, including reducing water consumption, renewable energy and promoting biodiversity in the vineyards. Zaccagnini produces a range of organically farmed wines, emphasizing the natural and traditional aspects of winemaking while reducing the use of synthetic chemicals. All of these efforts not only contribute to the quality of the wines but also to the preservation of the local ecosystem. As mentioned, their wine bottles are adorned with a small grapevine cutting tied around its neck, which further symbolizes the deep connection between nature and wine.  

Regarding the land or terroir, Cantina Zaccagnini is situated in a prime location between the Adriatic Sea and the Apennine Mountains. This provides a unique terroir that combines coastal and mountainous influences, contributing to the complexity of the wines. The vineyards benefit from a favorable microclimate, with warm days, cool nights, and consistent breezes that help maintain healthy vines and optimal grape ripening.  Moreover, the rich calcareous and clay-laden soils, also play a crucial role in shaping the character of Cantina Zaccagnini’s wines. These soils, combined with the natural biodiversity of the region, create an ideal environment for growing native grape varieties such as Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, Pecorino, and Trebbiano.

The Wining Hour had the pleasure of tasting some of their wines, each one presenting a different snapshot of their territory.  

Cantina Zaccagnini Brut Blanc de Blancs

This iconic offering from Cantina Zaccagnini is an absolute surprise and a delight! The Brut Blanc de Blancs Sparkling Pecorino is an interesting and unique sparkling wine, made from 100% Pecorino, a native Italian varietal known for its crisp acidity, fresh flavors, and distinctive minerality. How cool is that?! Beautiful citrus fruit aromas of lemon zest, lime, and grapefruit dominate the nose, along with green apple, pear, and white peach. The palate is similar with  notes of white peach and apricot, which add a fruity complexity. A distinctive flint minerality is evident, leading to a clean, lively and refreshing mouthfeel.

The use of Pecorino in sparkling wine is relatively uncommon, making this very unique and  showcasing the potential of the Pecorino grape in an elegant and refreshing format. Pecorino’s naturally high acidity and mineral character make it well-suited for sparkling wine production. Sip this versatile bubbly alone or pair with oysters, clams, octopus, sushi, salads and vegetables and/or soft cheeses. Dry, with minimal residual sugar and persistent perlage. 12% ABV. 

Cantina Zaccagnini Pinot Grigio 2022

From Zaccagnini’s Colline Pescaresi or Pescara hills, this classic Pinot Grigio is inviting with citrus fruit aromas and flavors of green apple, melon, pear and white flowers. The finish is crisp, with a refreshing sone minerality and notes of almonds and white peach. Fresh, crisp and elegant. The wine’s acidity is prominent but well-balanced, contributing to its refreshing nature and making it ideal for food pairing or drinking on its own.  We paired it with antipasto and Mediterranean fare. 12.5% ABV.

Cantina Zaccagnini Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo Rosé DOC

Cantina Zaccagnini’s Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo rosé is made primarily from the Montepulciano grape, but adds a little Sangiovese. After a manual harvest, there is a short maceration period. The juice is left in contact with the skins for a brief period (usually around 12 to 24 hours), allowing the wine to obtain a moderate amount of color, resulting in the deeper pink hue or  cherry red hue. Next the wine undergoes cool fermentation in stainless steel.To maintain the wine’s fresh, fruity profile, no oak aging is involved in the vinification process. A vibrant cherry color in the glass, this wine is light, fresh, and aromatic. The nose is citrusy, while the palate is crisp and dry with rich flavors of fresh cherries, strawberries, and rose petals. Good structure with balanced acidity and a slight mineral finish. This wine would pair well with grilled/roasted fish, shellfish, creamy risotto, vegetarian dishes, pizza, soft and mild cheeses. We chose to pair it with bruschetta and antipasto. 12.5% ABV.

While I did not taste it during this Wining Hour, I have previously experienced their Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, which is the flagship wine of Cantina Zaccagnini and a true reflection of the Abruzzo region’s signature Montepulciano grape.

Today, Cantina Zaccagnini exports its wines to over 45 countries, making it one of the most internationally recognized wineries from Abruzzo. Cantina Zaccagnini stands as a symbol of excellence in Italian winemaking. With a deep respect for tradition, a commitment to sustainability, and an eye toward innovation, the winery continues to produce exceptional wines that capture the essence of Abruzzo.