Iacopo Michele Giannotti is the winemaker at Cantine Riunite in Reggio Emilia, Italy. He was born in the province of Reggio Emilia in 1981. After graduating from high school, he attended the three-year degree program in “Agro-vegetable biotechnology” at the University of Reggio Emilia and Modena. After that, he enrolled in a master’s program in Bologna in “Agro-industrial systems sciences” with a specific curriculum in fruit and viticulture. It was there that his interest in viticulture and oenology started.
During his studies, he gained experience that led him to collaborate with various wineries around Italy. After graduating in February 2006, he went to Australia as an assistant oenologist in a winery in the state of Victoria. Returning to Italy in September 2006, he has developed various work relationships in the Emilia area in co-op wineries and with private companies.
In 2019, he joined Cantine Riunite & Civ Group. In 2022, he was elected president of the Emilia section of the Italian Oenologists Association Assoenologi. Media Inquiries: Huiru Guo hguo@colangelopr.com | https://www.riuniteciv.com/en/
What’s the ONE THING most unique, authentic, & memorable about your brand?
Cantine Riunite is a cooperative winery founded in 1950, shortly after World War II, when local growers came together to strengthen their livelihoods and create value from their land. Over time, that vision helped bring Lambrusco to a global audience, making Riunite one of the most recognised wine brands in the world.
Today, a glass of Riunite represents that legacy—known internationally for its accessibility and appeal.
Working at Cantine Riunite means contributing to that shared purpose. Each day involves working with growers and colleagues committed to expressing their land through wine. It’s a responsibility, but also a source of pride—for them and for those who represent their work.
Describe how and what you’d do with your winemaking career or winery business if you were not constrained.
A few years ago, I would have said, “Make the best wine in the world.” Now I see that quality is relative—it depends on what people are looking for. For many, Lambrusco already is the best.
Today, I’d value more time to travel and deepen my understanding of other wine regions. Sharing ideas with other winemakers is one of the most effective ways to improve how we work and what we produce, and I’d like to invest more in that.
What is the One Wine most emblematic of your brand and/or winemaking style? Tell us its story.
Cantine Riunite has been selling wine globally for more than 75 years, producing both classic wines like Lambrusco and newer styles.
One recent addition is Riunite Zero, a dealcoholized Lambrusco. It begins with carefully selected must for aroma, balance, and structure, followed by alcohol removal and a small addition of grape juice for natural sweetness. The result is a semi-sparkling red with fresh berry notes and a balanced palate—alcohol-free and versatile, including cocktails. Read my N/A wine review here.
Bonus Question: If you could create your own superpower, what would it be?
I would like to have many different superpowers! However, a very simple one is, for example, eating without gaining weight and drinking without getting drunk… but it’s already possible with Riunite Zero! Then I’d be happy to bring peace around the world!