Definition: VITI (label)

In Ticino, a quality label designed to promote the development of a common production line for Merlot wines. The VITI quality label was created in 1948, following an exceptional wine-growing year. The Ticino State Council established it by special decree. The canton of Ticino became a pioneer in this field. A series of criteria was established to highlight quality Merlot wines that are representative of their terroirs and demonstrate typical characteristics. Producers wishing to affix the VITI label to their bottles must submit their wines to a tasting committee composed of seven oenologists. This jury meets five to six times a year. Around fifty wines are presented by the 18 producers who are members of the VITI Association. The percentage of wines rejected is around 10%. After perfecting the system over the years, the Ticino Department of Finance and Economy encouraged the cantonal wine industry to take over the VITI label. Privatisation took place in 1995. Since then, the VITI Association has managed and awarded the VITI and Grappa ticinese controllata labels.