Emidio Pepe, pioneering Abruzzese winemaker, dies at 94

Emidio Pepe, aged 94, died on 28 July 2026. Born in Torano Nuovo (Teramo province), he founded the eponymous winery in 1964, building on a family tradition dating back to 1899. Pepe championed the Montepulciano and Trebbiano d'Abruzzo grapes, demonstrating their capacity for long‑term aging and helping them gain international recognition. The Gambero Rosso magazine dubbed him “Mister Montepulciano” and “alfiere del rosso d’Abruzzo”. He was a pioneer of organic and biodynamic viticulture, and his estate is now regarded as a benchmark for natural wine production worldwide.

Regional authorities and agricultural organisations expressed deep condolences. Abruzzo deputy‑vice‑president for agriculture Emanuele Imprudente called Pepe “one of the most authentic sons of our land”, while Coldiretti Abruzzo highlighted the loss of a key reference point for sustainable viticulture. Funeral arrangements were set for 29 July at the Madonna delle Grazie church in Torano Nuovo.