How and to what extent will your previous experience in the wine sector support your work as director of Ticinowine?
Thanks to 15 years in the agri-food, tourism, and restaurant sectors, I've lived and worked side by side with Ticino producers, gaining firsthand knowledge of their challenges, but above all, their remarkable qualities, their excellence, and their passion. Today, I see an opportunity in every bottle: to showcase the unique stories of our wines, the fruit of our region's nature and the work of Ticino producers, to excite consumers, and to leverage both experiential and digital technologies to bring the quality and authenticity of Ticino to every corner of the globe.
Why do you think wine is an ideal gift during the holidays, and what characteristics and values make it so special?
Our wine is a gift that embodies conviviality, regionality, and culture. Giving a bottle of wine means offering something refined and elegant, which conveys value, prestige, and tells a unique story. It carries with it emotion and identity and lends itself perfectly to moments of sharing during the holidays. Ticino wine in particular combines recognized quality, a strong connection to the territory, and a distinctive character, making it a true, beloved ambassador of our region. By giving one of our wines as a gift, you're sure to make a great impression!
What specific promotional initiatives is Ticinowine implementing to foster the growth and development of the Ticino wine sector??
Ticinowine focuses on three strategic pillars: consumer promotion, with events and tastings in Ticino and the Gotthard Pass; strengthening digital communications to showcase Ticino wine in a modern and engaging way; and developing synergies with local stakeholders, through collaborations with tourism, institutions, and restaurants, to help unlock the full potential of Ticino's food and wine, making it an increasingly strong ambassador and attraction in Switzerland and around the world.
More generally, what are your expectations for the future of the Ticino wine sector and what challenges will companies face in the coming years?
The future of Ticino's wine sector is promising: the quality of our wines is a recognized and much-loved guarantee, wine tourism opens up new opportunities, and a new generation of passionate and innovative producers brings energy and fresh ideas, continuing the great work of their predecessors. There are challenges ahead—climate change, cost pressures, and growing competition—but I believe that by focusing on innovation, sustainability, and collaboration, Ticino can consolidate its position as a benchmark for quality food and wine, maximizing the region's excellence and the passion that drives every bottle, both in Switzerland and abroad.
The proposals of some Ticinowine winemakers
Jonas Huber, hubervini SA
«Regarding our Christmas promotional strategy, this year we are offering the unique opportunity, for the first time, to purchase the artwork that inspired the label of the 2023 Magic Mountain. Our customers can find various pairings between the wine and the artworks that are part of the “Zoo” collection designed by Loeb Sarli Architekten of Basel and Monteggio. (www.hubervini.ch). "
Eliana D'Amato-Marcionetti, Settemaggio SA
"The Settemaggio Winery's Christmas gift promotion program is carried out year-round. This approach allows us to cultivate strong relationships with companies and partners, creating deep and valuable synergies.
Our customers know they can count on us not only for the quality of our wines, but also for a comprehensive service that includes gift wrapping and delivery. This is a particularly appreciated service because it allows customers to rely completely on us. We are a company with an authentic story to tell: those who share our philosophy and our passion for the region follow us consistently.
During the autumn months, we participate in numerous fairs and events throughout Switzerland to further foster public interest in our wines. We also participate in food and wine evenings and social gatherings, where we showcase our flagship products for the Christmas season, including our renowned sparkling wine "SettePuntoCinque," a Metodo Classico produced entirely in Ticino. We maintain direct and constant contact with our customers, offering tastings in the cellar and social gatherings that strengthen their connection with our brand.
For several years, Cantina Settemaggio has also promoted Ticino's artisanal excellence through projects with local partners. This year, we launched a collaboration with Caseificio del Gottardo, creating gift boxes dedicated to cheeses – the Tremola Gift Box and the Grottino Gift Box (www.settemaggio.ch/Box-regalo)».
Etienne Cristini, Cantina Cristini e Figli Sagl
«For the Christmas holidays we will propose our gift boxes of 2 or 3 wines and, for companies that intend to send gifts, we guarantee an impeccable and classy service, you can consult (www.cantinacristini.ch). "
