New Leadership in the Wine Industry: Marzia Varvaglione Takes Helm of CEEV

Marzia Varvaglione: A New Era for European Wine

In a significant move for the European wine industry, Marzia Varvaglione, the Head of Business Development at Varvaglione 1921, has recently been appointed as the President of the Comité Européen des Entreprises Vins (CEEV). Her election took place during the CEEV General Assembly held on March 20, 2025, in Brussels, marking a pivotal moment for Italy’s role in Europe’s wine market.

Who is Marzia Varvaglione?

Born in 1989 in Taranto, Italy, Marzia has been immersed in the wine industry since 2013. As a key figure in Varvaglione 1921, a family-owned winery based in Leporano, Puglia, she represents the fourth generation of her family’s dedication to viticulture. Under her guidance, the winery has transitioned from focusing primarily on bulk wine production to becoming one of Puglia’s most innovative wine producers, highlighting local varieties like Primitivo in new and exciting ways.

Marzia’s vision for Varvaglione 1921 intertwines tradition and modernity, crafting a unique narrative that appeals to international markets. Her leadership has not only expanded the winery's reach but has also secured her influential positions within the wine sector, including her presidency at the Associazione Giovani Imprenditori Vinicoli Italiani (AGIVI) and her role as a board member of Unione Italiana Vini (UIV).

CEEV and Its Mission

The CEEV plays a critical role in representing the interests of wine companies across the EU. Its mission focuses on fostering dialogue within the wine sector and protecting the collective interests of EU producers against various regulatory challenges. During her three-year term, Marzia Varvaglione aims to strengthen collaboration among European wine producers, advocating for policies that enable both growth and sustainability within the industry.

“During these challenging times, unity in the wine sector is more important than ever. I am dedicated to working alongside the CEEV team and our members to navigate the obstacles we face together,” stated Marzia in her acceptance speech. Her leadership arrives at a time when the European wine market contends with fluctuating consumer preferences and the pressing impacts of climate change on vineyards, necessitating a proactive approach to industry challenges.

The Future of Italian Wine Under Varvaglione

Marzia’s appointment highlights not only her individual accomplishments but also signifies Italy’s growing influence in the European wine landscape. Her background and experience place her in a unique position to advocate for policies that promote responsible wine consumption while emphasizing cultural appreciation of wine.

Varvaglione 1921, under her stewardship, has distinguished itself as a leading winery in Puglia, effectively addressing the tastes of a modern international audience seeking innovative and authentic wine experiences. The winery's flagship products, such as Papale and Papale Linea Oro, showcase Primitivo and other traditional grapes in ways that resonate with contemporary palates.

As Marzia Varvaglione steps into her new role leading CEEV, the future of Italian wine looks promising. Her vision embodies a blend of respect for heritage and an embrace of innovation, essential for navigating the complexities of the global wine market. This new leadership brings hope for both the Italian wine sector and the broader European wine industry as they forge ahead into this new era.

Marzia's journey from a family business to a significant leadership role in the European wine industry showcases how dedication, modernization, and cultural pride continue to steer the future of Italian wine on the global stage.