Italian Wine Industry to Celebrate Ezio Rivella’s Legacy at Vinitaly

The Italian wine community is poised to honour one of its most influential figures, Ezio Rivella, with a dedicated Masterclass at the upcoming Vinitaly event in Verona. Scheduled for Tuesday, April 16th, 2024, this session is a tribute to Rivella’s monumental contributions to Italian winemaking and his role in elevating Italy to the forefront of global viticulture.

Ezio Rivella, who passed away in January 2024, was a revered figure in the wine industry, widely respected for his pioneering approach and the significant strides he made during his career. As the head winemaker of Castello Banfi, Rivella was instrumental in promoting Brunello di Montalcino to international acclaim, thereby securing Italy’s reputation as a leading producer of premium wines. His innovative techniques, combined with a deep respect for traditional winemaking methods, showcased the unmistakable terroir of Italy’s myriad wine regions.

Hailing from Asti, Rivella was a tireless advocate for indigenous Italian grape varieties, especially Sangiovese, and worked diligently to highlight the unique characteristics of each locale. Beyond his technical prowess, Rivella was known for his generosity, often mentoring younger professionals in the industry and contributing significantly to its growth.

Rivella’s impact extended beyond Castello Banfi. At the Bel Sit winery in Castagnole Lanze, Piedmont, he maintained a commitment to quality and innovation that defined his career. His leadership roles, including presiding over the Consorzio del Vino Brunello di Montalcino, leading the Unione Italiana Vini, and serving as president of Assoenologi, further attest to his influential presence in Italian wine circles. The Italian Republic recognised his achievements with the prestigious Cavaliere del Lavoro (Knight of Labour) title.

The Masterclass, titled “Honoring Ezio Rivella: A Legacy of Italian Winemaking Evolution,” promises an intimate exploration of Rivella’s achievements through insights from colleagues and friends. Speakers include Daniele Cernilli of Doctor Wine, alongside Riccardo Cotarella, President of Assoenologi; Enrico Viglierchio of Banfi Società Agricola Srl; Rodolfo Maralli of Banfi Srl; and Gianpiero Scavino from the Bel Sit winery. Participants will taste a curated selection of wines, including three Brunello di Montalcino from Castello Banfi and three Barbera d’Asti from Bel Sit, tracing Rivella’s career and influence.

Vinitaly, which is scheduled from April 14th to the 17th, continues to be a pivotal event for the wine industry, drawing thousands of visitors from across the globe. The 2024 edition is set to build on the success of previous years, with Vinitaly serving as a hub for collaboration and discovery within the expansive world of wine. The city of Verona, with its rich history and cultural heritage, offers the perfect setting for an event that celebrates the legacy of figures like Ezio Rivella and the vibrant future of Italian winemaking.

This Masterclass is not only a commemoration of Rivella’s life and work but also a beacon for future generations in the wine industry, emphasizing the enduring impact of passion, innovation, and dedication to excellence.