Ep. 857 John Irwin Interviews Pietro Ratti | Maze Row Wine Merchant

Welcome to episode 857, the third in our new 7-part series with our fantastic partners, LUX Wines and Maze Row Wine Merchant. We are proud to present this series of interviews, diving deep into the heritage and legacy of their excellent Italian producers, celebrating the launch of the new brand identity for their importer, Maze Row Wine Merchant. Tune in every Saturday through to April 16th as we take an intimate look at these esteemed historic producers and their role as part of Maze Row.

This episode has John Irwin interviewing Pietro Ratti of Cantina Ratti.

Fresh from oenological school in Alba, Pietro was just 20 years old when his father, Renato Ratti, passed away suddenly, leaving him to take over the winery. Over the course of 30+ vintages, Pietro has not only proven himself an exemplary vintner, but an incredible ambassador for the region, and more specifically the commune of La Morra.

Pietro served two terms as the President of the Consorzio di Tutela Barolo Barbaresco Alba Langhe e Dogliani. It was during one of his terms in 2010 when he oversaw the completion of the official map of Barolo’s MGAs, formally cementing the legendary map his father began drawing in 1965.

One of Pietro’s most significant achievements was building a new cantina atop a small hill in Annunziata, a short distance from the original cellars used by his father. Opened in time for the 2007 harvest, the stunning facility combines winemaking and cellar, along with a spectacular tasting facility; large windows afford guests breathtaking views of La Morra. It’s there where you’ll find Pietro in his natural element as a tireless host and a raconteur of the highest order.

To learn more about Ratti Winery: www.ratti.com/

To learn more about Maze Row Wine Merchant, visit:

www.mazerow.com www.instagram.com/mazerowwines/ www.facebook.com/search/top?q=maz…wines%20merchant

More about the host:

John Irwin has been working in wine for fifteen years, starting as a grocery store merchandiser in Chicago in 2007, and then working his way through several different roles within the wholesaler side of the business, including sales team management and regional chain sales. In 2013, he joined the E&J Gallo Winery, working first in Central Illinois and then moving to Minnesota in 2015 to oversee the winery’s bar and restaurant business across the state.

In 2017, John moved to New York City - where he currently resides - to work in Gallo’s Luxury Imports Division (a precursor to Maze Row Wine Merchants) where he oversaw the business in 12 states, called on national clients, and managed winemaker visits & events.

For Maze Row, John is responsible for all trade-and-consumer-facing assets and oversees internal and wholesaler education.

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Until next time, Cin Cin!