La Ginestraia

LA GINESTRAIA

IMPERIA | LIGURIA

Founded:		2007
Owner:		Mauro Leporieri & Marco Brangero
Winemaker:		Marco Brangero
Hectares under vines:		7ha
Altitude above sea level:		100-200m
Average annual production:		70,000 bottles
Green code:		organic, not certified

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WHAT THEY SAY

Understanding and interpreting the land, the environment and the grape variety is the basis for excellent, recognisable wines with personality. The wine must be an expression of the land and the people who work for it. The newly built, completely eco winery, exclusively cultivates and vinifies local white varieties, Pigato and Vermentino, by choice of its two owners.

WHAT WE SAY

La Ginestraia takes its name from a shrub (Ginestra or Broom). It is the project of two old friends that after more than 20 years of tasting wines together decided to take on a serious challenge and make wines in the steep hills of the Riviera di Ponente in Liguria. Nestled between olive trees and vines on a small hill only 7 km from the sea this small winery produces classic, elegant wines with a focus on the variety beautiful aromas and complexity. The proximity to the “Mar Ligure” and the characteristic stony soils add plenty of salty layers and mineral notes to this beautiful wines.

WHAT OTHERS SAY

Pigato Riviera di Ponente hints of Mediterranean herbs, Melon and Pineapple open onto an intense, harmonious, rich and highly complex body. (Included, alongside the Via Maestra also from La Ginestraia, in the best 9 Pigato of Gambero Rosso March 2024)

WINES WE IMPORT:

WHITES

• Pigato Riviera di Ponente

• Pigato Riviera di Ponente Le Marige

• Pigato Riviera di Ponente Via Maestra

I Favati

I Favati

AVELLINO | CAMPANIA

Founded:		1997
Owner:		Favati Family
Winemaker:		Vincenzo Mercurio
Hectares under vines:		50ha
Altitude above sea level:		500-600m
Green code:		Average annual production:		120,000 bottles
Organic not certified

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WHAT THEY SAY

The I Favati wine history dates back to the early 1900s, when the family’s ancestors began making wine for their own table and for a few close friends. The winery is located in the province of Avellino and has vineyards in all the 3 local DOCG areas, producing Greco, Fiano and Taurasi. The first commercial vintage, however, was released to the market in 2000 and it was their Fiano di Avellino. The Estate is managed entirely by the family, Rosanna and her daughter Carla, her husband Giancarlo Favati and his brother Piersabino Favati. Their philosophy is that “il vino e’ fatto nelle vigne” – the literal translation being “wine is made in the vineyards”, but in practice the approach is that if you grow healthy grapes with minimal or no chemical intervention, the hardest part is over. In the cellar, they truly go to lengths to make sure the wine is of highest quality—a wine that can maintain its integrity without additives.

WHAT WE SAY

A dynamic family with a great attention to detail and passion for their land is behind these well-crafted, very expressive, luxurious and varietal wines. Somehow, despite their recent history their wines already belong to the very best and classic Irpinia can offer. A great range of wines which will certainly be well received by our discerning clients.

WHAT OTHERS SAY

The I Favati winery has been recognized as one of the outstanding Italian producers of fine wines and grappa . Passion, and a culture of good wine, are a tradition that has been carried on by this great family since the early decades of the last century. Located in Irpinia, famous for its beauty, its rich volcanic soil, and its wine.

“Contrasting richness with freshness, the 2019 Fiano di Avellino Pietramara Riserva entices with a mix of white flowers, almond paste, wet stone and crushed red pears. It is silky and supple, smoothing over the palate with an elegant wave of ripe peach and nectarine. The 2019 lingers long, leaving a mineral and acid-infused tension as candied lime hints fade. This is simply stunning today and has a bright future.” Eric Guido, Vinous, 93 points

Wines Available

Whites:

• Greco di Tufo Terrantica DOCG

• Fiano di Avellino Pietramara DOCG

• Fiano di Avellino Pietramara Riserva DOCG

Reds:

• Campi Taurasini Cretarossa DOC

• Taurasi Terzoatto DOCG

Era (Volpi)

Era (Volpi)

TORTONA | ALESSANDRIA
ABRUZZO & SICILIA

Founded:		1914
Owner:		Carlo Volpi
Winemaker:		Matteo Ivaldi
Hectares under vines:		115ha
Altitude above sea level:		various
Average annual production:		50,000 bottles
Green code:		Organic

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Over four generations, Volpi have been protagonists in a continuous evolution which led them to become a reference point in the oenological sector in Piedmont, an authentic expression of the territory of the surrounding Tortonese hills.

The winery is continually oriented towards innovation: between the 70's and 90's, thanks to the Cortese and Colli Tortonesi wines they affirmed their leading position in Italy with the launch of their Cortese Pét-Nat (pétillant naturel), a precursor of the planetary successes of Prosecco and Franciacorta. At the same time, the first barriques were introduced into the cellar and the production and marketing of Novello wine began. In the 1990s it was one of the first wineries to embrace the choice of organic farming in a meaningful way, which today represents 70% of their total production.

Cantine Volpi offer two ranges. One line includes the typical wines obtained from native grapes of the Tortona Hills. The other line is their organic one called Era, from the Greek name of Diana, Goddess of Nature.

Marco Brangero

MARCO BRANGERO

DIANO D’ALBA | PIEDMONT

Founded:		2006
Owner:		Marco Brangero
Winemaker:		Marco Brangero
Hectares under vines:		8.5ha
Altitude above sea level:		500m
Average annual production:		65,000 bottles
Green code:		organic, not certified

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WHAT THEY SAY

The Brangero farm is located in Diano d'Alba, on the highest part of the hill in front of the town. A splendid view of the Langhe hills, the beautiful town of Alba, the vines that surround the building enjoy the most favorable climatic and exhibition position.

Marco Brangero acquired a parcel in the famed Monvigliero vineyard, and he makes a spectacular wine from those vines in his cellar in Barolo. The Arneis, Chardonnay and Alta Langa are vinified and bottled in the Diano winery.

WHAT WE SAY

We knew that Marco had a good touch with white varieties after tasting his range of Ligurian Pigato and Langhe’s Arneis and Chardonnay, but it turns out that he has the same skills for his reds -which are equally well crafted. A very precise and elegant touch combined with a judicious use of wood is noticeable in all his wines. The focus, in his reds, is on clean and vibrant aromas mixed with a poised control of the tannins. Marco’s wines are a great joy to drink in relative youth but equally good to cellar.

WINES WE IMPORT:

SPARKLING

• Alta Langa extra brut DOC

REDS

• Barolo Monvigliero DOC

WHITES

• Langhe Arneis DOC

  Langhe Chardonnay DOC

Enza La Fauci

Enza La Fauci

MESSINA | SICILIA

Founded:		2004
Owner:		Enza La Fauci
Winemaker:		Dr. Emiliano Falsini
Hectares under vines:		3ha
Altitude above sea level:		330m
Average annual production:		18,000 bottles
Green code:		organic, not certified

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WHAT THEY SAY

Enza comes from a family of distillers but her heart has always been amongst the vineyards, and so in 2003 she embarked on her own project. Her small vineyard is planted on family land, situated at the mouth of the Messina Strait. The soil is limestone/clay with a strong presence of golden mica- a typical stone of Messina which contributes significantly to the sensory notes in her wines.

The 300m vineyards are kept fresh by the Tramontane and Sirocco winds and surprisingly abundant rainfall for Sicily. And the vines are worked by hand, with total respect for nature and free of chemical herbicides, she jokes that her wines are more organically organic than ‘organic’.

WHAT WE SAY

Enza’s determined nature and her exuberant passion for wine making combine in the glorious land that is Sicily to create enchanting, refined and unique wines. She uses only local varieties (Zibibbo, Gracanico, Nocera and the Nerelli). The vineyards are situated in the legendary Capo Peloro near the strait of Messina. This vicinity is renowned for a particular maritime microclimate, generating some intriguing, luscious but delicate wines with great personality.

WINES AVAILABLE

WHITES:

• Incanto IGT

• Case Bianche IGT

REDS:

• Vignadorata IGT

• Terra Di Vento Faro DOC

SWEET:

• Duci IGT Passito Bianco

Giacomelli

GIACOMELLI

CASTELNUOVO MAGRA| LIGURIA

Founded:		1993
Owner:		Roberto Petacchi
Winemaker:		Roberto Petacchi
Hectares under vines:		12ha
Altitude above sea level:		100-250m
Average annual production:		100,000 bottles
Green code:		Lutte Raisonée

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WHAT THEY SAY

The company was born from the visionary will of the patron Roberto Petacchi , to transform the family business, a traditional farm, into a winery, with the aim of recovering ancient vineyards, real crus of French conception (among these are Boboli and Il Giardino dei Vescovi ) to dedicate his life to the production of Vermentino wine.

A bold choice which, in the long journey that brings us up to today (just under 30 years), has proved to be enlightened, as demonstrated by the numerous awards that the company's wines have received in recent years in Italy and beyond.

The philosophy, from the very first steps, has been focused on the research of the least environmental impact and in the least possible use of treatments. In our vineyard we cultivate in an ancient and healthy way, to produce wines without pesticides, using natural fertilizers.

WHAT WE SAY

There is an awe inspiring dedication to the Vermentino grape. The amount of care given to ensure each vineyard, based on its unique position, proximity and exposure to the sea and its winds, is given the chance to express its own ‘soul’. Roberto produces beautifully nuanced, structured and complex wines.

WINES WE IMPORT:

WHITES

Liguria di Levante IGT ‘Paduletti’
Vermentino – Colli di Luni DOC Boboli
Vermentino – Colli di Luni DOC Pianacce
Vermentino – Colli di Luni DOC Il Giardino dei Vescovi

Antoniolo

ANTONIOLO

GATTINARA | PIEDMONT

Founded:		1940
Owner:		Antoniolo family
Winemaker:		Alberto Antoniolo
Hectares under vines:		14ha
Altitude above sea level:		200-400m
Average annual production:		60,000 bottles
Green code:		practicing organic/low intervention

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WHAT THEY SAY

The estate was established in 1940 by Mario Antoniolo, a very motivated entrepreneur. He strongly believed in the potential of the territory and ahead of his time built a small winery and complete supply chain. Later Mario was supported by his daughter Rosanna - one of the first female sommeliers in Italy and a master taster.

The estate is currently run by Mario’s grandson Alberto (wine maker) and his sister Lorella. Throughout the generations, the philosophy of the family business has remained unchanged: respect for the vineyard and its production -without interfering in any way with the wine obtained. So absolute protection and respect for the single terroir.

WHAT WE SAY

The Antoniolo name is synonymous with Gattinara. The low –intervention wines from Antoniolo made from Nebbiolo (known locally as ‘Spanna’) provide great value and quality. For lovers of Barolo and Barbaresco, these wines are a must to try as worthy alternatives.

WHAT OTHERS SAY

“Lorella Zoppis Antoniolo is an energetic producer of Gattinara. Her Riserva is released in a quantity of around 20,000 bottles. The grapes are fermented with their own natural yeasts in concrete, with a maceration of approximately 20 days and spontaneous malolactic fermentation. The wine ages in large 30hL oak casks for 36 months. There's a stunning complexity on the nose of savoury liquorice, smoky woodland, wild strawberry, violet and tar. The attack is relaxing and refined, with firm, dusty, velvety tannins and crisp acidity. It's austere and powerful enough to cellar but with the grace to drink now due to an amazing balance between the supple fruit and the structure. A very classic profile with graphite and earthy depth leading to a great finish.”

96 points, Aldo Fiordelli, Decanter Wine Magazine.

WINES WE IMPORT:

REDS

Coste della Sesia Nebbiolo Juvenia DOC Gattinara Riserva DOCG
Gattinara Riserva Le Castelle DOCG
Gattinara Riserva San Francesco DOCG
Gattinara Riserva Osso San Grato DOCG

WHITES

Erbaluce di Caluso DOCG

Orlando Abrigo

ORLANDO ABRIGO

TREISO | PIEDMONT

Founded:		1973
Owner:		Giovanni Abrigo
Winemaker:		Giovanni Abrigo
Hectares under vines:		21ha
Altitude above sea level:		300-400m
Average annual production:		100,000 bottles
Green code:		Lutte Raisonnée*

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WHAT THEY SAY

Giovanni’s grandparents were winemakers who sold their grapes at the market in Alba. His father Orlando returned to winemaking in 1973, proudly welcoming the DOCG recognition in 1981. Giovanni’s first harvest was in 1986 and he has not looked back. New vineyards have been acquired (Montersino in 1996) and an avante garde winery was built in 2013.

WHAT WE SAY

A great range of wines from Giovanni, we are delighted to have discovered and include in our portfolio. Excitingly, Giovanni holds back a certain number of bottles of the best vintages, which he offers again at a later date. These historic vintages are in their prime and, as the critic scores testify, make stunning drinking.

WHAT OTHERS SAY

Orlando Abrigo's Barbarescos are powerful and rich. This set of new releases really impressed me,as the wines showed quite a bit of distinction and personality, not to mention consistency across the entire range. 2014 Barbaresco Montersino

“The 2014 Barbaresco Montersino is stellar. Dark, pliant and mysterious, the Montersino shows the more virile side of Nebbiolo. Macerated dark cherry, menthol, licorice, smoke and spice fill out the wine's ample frame very nicely. All the elements come together in a potent, effortless wine of real pedigree.” 94 points Antonio Galloni, Vinous

WINES WE IMPORT:

REDS

Valmaggiore Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC
Meruzzano Barbaresco DOCG
Montersino Barbaresco DOCG
Rongalio Riserva Barbaresco DOCG
Barbaresco CN Centoundici DOCG

WHITES

Tres Plus Langhe Bianco

*Lutte raisonnée: literally ‘reasoned struggle’, is an approach to viticulture which tries to minimise the application of agrochemicals so that they are used only when absolutely necessary and not as a matter of routine.

Enzo Boglietti

ENZO BOGLIETTI

LA MORRA | PIEDMONT

Founded:		1991
Owner:		Enzo Boglietti
Winemaker:		Enzo Boglietti
Hectares under vines:		7ha
Altitude above sea level:		320-480m
Average annual production:		100,000 bottles
Green code:		Certified organic since 2017.

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WHAT THEY SAY

In 1991 for the first time we decided to make and bottle Barolo from the fruit coming from our almost 3ha of vineyards. These 3 hectares, including small parcels of Brunate and Boiolo in La Morra, were partly the inheritance from our grandfather Matteo Boglietti and partly from our Mum’s side. Her father owned both the Fossati farmhouse and a portion of the Fossati vineyard, also in La Morra.

Prior to 1991 all our grapes were sold to the local cantine sociali, while our focus was on farming. But following the advice of our wine making friends, we started our wine adventure.

The beginning wasn’t without challenges, we started reducing our crop in the vineyards to the great disappointment of my father, (he was certainly not used to throwing any fruit on the ground) and we needed a wine cellar - so we converted our stables.

Our first vintage -1991 was not an exceptional vintage, but the grapes we picked were pristine and gave elegant wines. Over the years, we have developed a finer, more elegant and more vibrant way of making Barolos. We have gradually diminished the amount of new oak and reduced the extraction during fermentation. All our Barolos undergo spontaneous fermentation and we do not filter

WHAT WE SAY

Enzo Boglietti together with his daughter Linda and his son Matteo are dedicated to producing high quality wines. This is a super range, quite honestly there was nothing tasted which we did not like!

WHAT OTHERS SAY

2016 Barolo Boiolo 92 points

“The 2016 Barolo Boiolo is a very pretty, fruity wine with lovely immediacy and appeal. Crushed flowers, mint, sweet red berry, orange peel and spice are nicely pushed forward. Succulent and open-knit, the 2016 will drink well with minimal cellaring. This is one of the most approachable 2016s I tasted for this report.” Antonio Galloni, Vinous

WINES WE IMPORT:

REDS

Langhe Nebbiolo
Barolo La Morra
Barolo Boiolo
Barolo Fossati
Barolo Case Nere
Barolo Brunate
Barolo Arione

WHITES

Langhe Chardonnay

Ciavolich

Ciavolich

LORETO APRUTINO | ABRUZZO

Founded:		1853
Owner:		Chiara Ciavolich
Winemaker:		Chiara Ciavolich & Romano d’Amario
Hectares under vines:		35ha
Altitude above sea level:		250m
Average annual production:		100,000 bottles
Green code:		Lutte Raisonée

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WHAT THEY SAY

Chiara’s ancestors were Bulgarian Merchants who took refuge in Miglianico in the 1560s. In 1853 Francesco Ciavolich built the first winery. It was lost through the second world war and regained in the 1960s and the family have continued to make wine to present day. Chiara Ciavolich now heads up the estate, utilising sustainable practices.

WHAT WE SAY

These are exciting, artisanal wines made in a contemporary style, using a blend of old and new techniques, mainly using Montepulciano, Trebbiano and Cococciola varieties many of which were first planted in the 1960s.

The grapes are all hand picked before being crushed gently in the estate’s ancient press. The winery employs various fermentation techniques and elevage takes place in either cement, stainless steel, Slavonian and French oak or terracotta amphorae. Chiara and Romano decide which type to use during the August samplings of the various plots.

WHAT OTHERS SAY

Sarah McCleery, The Buyer:

My tastebuds fell fully for the charms of Abruzzo at the table of Chiara Ciavolich.

Having inherited her 35-hectare estate from her parents, Ciavolich’s wines were amongst the most poised and elegant I tasted all day and were very much ‘foodie’ wines. Embracing the here and now and respecting the past is an easy thing to write but harder to put into practice, but the Ciavolich wines are wonderfully evocative and to taste them is a tasty and articulate walk through Abruzzo’s history.

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Walter Speller, Jancis Robinson.com:

It is Trebbiano d’Abruzzo that is slowly becoming the regions signature Variety. The Fosso Cancelli from Chiara Ciavolich (pergola trained vineyard planted in 1960) is a textbook example of what Trebbiano d’Abruzzo is about, leaving no doubt about the greatness of this often misunderstood variety.

2018 Fosso Cancelli Trebbiano d’Abruzzo: “Deep straw yellow with a golden tinge. Hay, flowers, chamomile, hints of breadcrumb, sweet and a little rich and complex. Boskoop apple and nervy white and yellow fruit on the palate with hints of spice. Drink 2021-2028”

WINES WE IMPORT

WHITES:

• Pecorino Aries Colline Pescaresi IGT

• Pecorino Fosso Cancelli Colline Pescaresi IGT

• Trebbiano D’Abruzzo Fosso Cancelli DOC

REDS:

• Cerasuolo D’Abruzzo DOC

• Cerasuolo D’Abruzzo Fosso Cancelli DOC

• Montepulciano D`Abruzzo Divus DOC

• Montepulciano D’Abruzzo Fopsso Cancelli DOC

Aldo Rainoldi

Aldo Rainoldi

CHIURO | SONDRIO
LOMBARDY

Founded:		1925
Owner:		Rainoldi Family
Winemaker:		Aldo Rainoldi
Hectares under vines:		9ha
Altitude above sea level:		300m - 600m
Average annual production:		185,000 bottles
Green code:		Adhere to their own sustainable and environmental charter

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WHAT THEY SAY

“Today Rainoldi is one of the most popular wineries in Valtellina.

The great success is surely due to quality and experience, two factors that place Rainoldi among the most refined wines in Valtellina. Our aim is to combine qualitative growth with respect for the environment, leading the company to the next generation.

The Rainoldi winery offers the most demanding and enthusiastic wine lovers a vast assortment that includes Inferno, Sassella, Grumello and Sforzato (or Sfursat) red wines.”

WHAT WE SAY

The Rainoldi family wines are crafted from stunningly steep vineyards in Valtellina, in the foothills of the Alps. The dry stone terraces provide great exposition to the ripening rays of the sun as well as protection from the harsher cold winds. The range highlights the versatility of the Chiavennasca grape (the local dialect name for Nebbiolo). The average age of the vines is 60 years old. The Grumello vineyards yield fresh and fruity wines and the iron rich soils of Sasella produce elegant wines with great ageing potential.

WHAT OTHERS SAY

“The Rainoldi 2013 Valtellina Superiore Sassella Vigna degli Apostoli is a new cru from this well-known vineyard, sitting at about 300 meters above sea level along the terraced, sandy and rocky banks of the Adda River. Although this is the first vintage made, the vines were planted in the 1950s. This lean-bodied expression of Chiavennasca greets the nose with elegant tertiary aromas that are deftly woven between some of the dark, crisp berry fruit that distinguishes the bouquet. There is dried cherry and crème de cassis with tarry notes of spice, smoke and crushed stone. The wine proceeds with a compact approach capped by fresh acidity and softly polished tannins. This wine is drinking beautifully in the here and now. “

95 Points, Monica Larner, RobertParker.com

WINES WE IMPORT:

REDS:

Sassella Vigna degli Apostoli Valtellina Superiore DOCG
Grumello Riserva Dossi Salati Valtellina Superiore DOCG
Grumello Valtellina Superiore DOCG
Sassella Valtellina Superiore DOCG
San Gregorio Rosso di Valtellina DOC

PoderNuovo

PoderNuovo

PALAZZONE | SIENA
TUSCANY

Founded:		2004
Owner:		Giovanni Bulgari
Winemaker:		Michele Bean
Hectares under vines:		26ha
Altitude above sea level:		200m to 400m
Average annual production:		130,000 bottles
Green code:		Organic uncertified

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WHAT THEY SAY

Giovanni Bulgari, managing director, has set as a starting point for the creation of his wines, a minimal environmental impact, by controlling carbon dioxide emissions and processing the grapes in total respect and harmony with nature. Respect for and enhancement of nature begins in the vineyard, where ancient techniques are employed. The Podernuovo team already works from the vineyard with utmost attention; the aim is to vinify only the best grapes. The cellar, two thirds of which is situated inside a hill, allows the use of geothermal energy and the exposed roof is covered in solar panels.

WHAT WE SAY

This is an elegant and sophisticated range of wines, unsurprising from a member of the famed jewellery dynasty renowned for its style, artistry and excellence. With Tuscan grape varieties at its heart, each wine is crafted meticulously.

WHAT OTHERS SAY

The 2015 Argirio shows a pretty saturated color and presents big fruity ripeness. In fact, the folks at Podernuovo a Palazzone waited to harvest in order to get that extra maturity and eliminate any green notes from the grapes. This Tuscan red shows some light chalky, mineral notes of limestone beyond blackberry and blackcurrant. It spends eight to 12 months in barrique. Oak spice and smoke aromas do emerge with clarity. There is a bit of toasted chestnut and dry hay on the close. 93 points.” Wine Advocate, Monica Larner

WINES WE IMPORT

Red

• Nicoleo IGT (Grechetto, Chardonnay)

• Therra IGT (Montepulciano, Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot)

• Argirio IGT (Cabernet Franc)

• Sotirio IGT (Sangiovese)

Castello di Vicarello

Castello di Vicarello

POGGI DEL SASSO | GROSSETO
TUSCANY

Founded:		1970
Owner:		The Baccheschi-Berti family
Winemaker:		Carlo & Brando Baccheschi-Berti
Hectares under vines:		7ha
Altitude above sea level:		350m to 500m
Average annual production:		20,000 bottles
Green code:		Organic certified

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WHAT THEY SAY

The ancient soils of our vineyards are rich in clay, minerals and marine deposits. Full of calcium and other micronutrients, this land produces lush vegetation and incredible fruit. The wines at Castello di Vicarello are now made by two generations of the Baccheschi-Berti family, Carlo and his eldest son Brando. Finding his inspiration in the wines of Bordeaux, Carlo sought to realise his dream of creating a wine in Tuscany akin to those of the celebrated terroir. His strong intuition to plant specific cultivars and implement high-density planting has resulted in wines that pay homage to both. The wines may find their inspiration from Bordeaux, yet always with a strong reference to Tuscany and more specifically, Maremma.

WHAT WE SAY

Seven hectares of high-density, organically grown vineyards produce the Castello’s wines. Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petit Verdot were each chosen for their inherent character to ennoble the classic wines of Tuscany. Sangiovese, a staple of Tuscan winemaking is blended with Merlot to create an alternative interpretation of the Maremma.

WHAT OTHERS SAY

Castello di Vicarello Intriguing nose with lots of cocoa, blueberry, ripe baked peppers, mint and mineral notes. The lavish mouth is characterised by oak, chalky minerality and broad, chewy tannins. Has great length to its full-bodied palate, varietal communication loud and clear. Offers lots to chew on for the gastronome. 97 points Decanter World Wine Awards

WINES WE IMPORT

Red

• Merah IGT (Sangiovese)

• Terre di Vico IGT (70% Sangiovese, 30% Merlot)

• Castello di Vicarello IGT (45% Cabernet Franc, 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Petit Verdot)

Grifalco

Grifalco

VENOSA | POTENZA
BASILICATA

Founded:		2004
Owner:		Piccin family
Winemaker:		Lorenzo Piccins
Hectares under vines:		16ha
Altitude above sea level:		450-580m
Average annual production:		80,000 bottles
Green code:		Certified organic

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WHAT THEY SAY

The Grifalco company was founded in 2004 by the desire of Fabrizio and Cecilia Piccin to start a new path after having produced Nobile di Montepulciano for 20 years, focusing on what is considered the most important grape variety in southern Italy; the project is currently carried out by their sons Lorenzo and Andrea. The company has a surface of 16 hectares with age of the vineyards ranging from 10 years up to 80 years, divided into several municipalities of the Vulture, because being able to work with different land allows us to have greater complexity in the wines that are produced. The vineyards are located in the municipalities of Maschito, Forenza, Ginestra and Venosa, where the cellar is also located. About 70 thousand bottles of only Aglianico del Vulture are produced, a precise choice that allows us to focus on just one vine and work on its nuances.

WHAT WE SAY

Brothers Lorenzo and Andrea are devoted to Aglianico del Vulture and are swiftly making themselves a reference point for the ancient grape. There is something for all red wine lovers in this range from the volcanic soils of Monte Vulture. Although located in the south, the altitude provides a cool climate and long growing season. This produces highly collectible wines of great complexity with great ageing potential like the award winning Damaschito and Daginestra. The Gricos is made for earlier drinking from the youngest vines and vinified in a fruit-forward fashion, but is still a robust and rich wine. The flagship wine, Grifalco, is a beautiful example.

WHAT OTHERS SAY

2015 Aglianico del Vulture Superiore DOCG Daginestra Good full red. Wild aromas of musky plum, chocolate and graphite nicely complemented by underbrush and faded flowers. Savory, flinty and deep, with lovely energy and nuance to the musky red and dark fruit flavors, complemented by underbrush and soil tones. Compellingly chewy and rich on the long finish, this should evolve gracefully for many years. Made from 60-80 year old vines grown at 560 meters above sea level, the wine is aged 18-24 months in a mix of French and Slavonian oak barrels.- Ian D'Agata, Vinous 93 points 2022 - 2028

Aglianico Del Vulture Grifalco DOC: “We can thank volcanoes and the magically enlivening effect their soil has on wine for this one, although its particular volcano is not technically extinct. The name is a mix of the griffin, the symbol of Montepulciano, where the family came from, and the falcon, the symbol of Monte Vulture. (Yes, I know it should be a vulture. I don’t control these things.) The 45-year-old Aglianico vines give great depth and detail, plenty of acidity and perfect balance It’s both powerful and dancing. Very long.” Margaret Rand, Hugh Johnson’s Pocket Wine Book 2023 - “10 Wines to Try in 2023“.

WINES

Reds:

• Aglianico del Vulture DOC Gricos

• Aglianico del Vulture DOC Grifalco

• Aglianico del Vulture Superiore DOCG Damaschito

• Aglianico del Vulture Superiore DOCG Daginestra

Tempa di Zoe

Tempa di Zoe

AGROPOLI | SALERNO
CAMPANIA

Founded:		1981
Owner:		Bruno De Conciliis
Winemaker:		Bruno De Conciliis
Hectares under vines:		8ha
Altitude above sea level:		150m
Average annual production:		30,000 bottles
Green code:		organic/biodynamic (not certified)

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WHAT THEY SAY

Tempa di Zoe was founded with a single goal of calling new attention to a land that is naturally excellent for wine: Cilento. Cilento’s soil was formed by the sea, under the sea. Sedimentary rocks of loam and sand often have veins formed from minerals. The soil on the surface, a thin layer of clay, soaks up the spring rain and gives it back to the vines in the dry summers. The flysch of Cilento is a strong, alkaline soil, perfect for cultivating the vines. It gives the grapes a unique personality.

WHAT WE SAY

Three great wines: Fiano Asterias, an extremely appealing white with grapefruit, peach and chamomile notes and a charming sea breeze saltiness on the finish. In the two reds, we see the Aglianico grape crafted in two ways. The first –The Aglianico Diciotto showcases the juicy dark fruit in an elegant, energetic wine aged for 10-12 months in French oak. Whereas the Supercampano Aglianico Zero starts with slightly dried grapes and is aged three years in large barrels and a further year in bottle to produce a complex, velvety wine.

WHAT OTHERS SAY

Aglianico Zero 2016 - Fully saturated ruby. Chocolate-covered cherry, mint and coffee scents, plus a floral note that provides this concentrated wine with some lift. Flavors of ripe plums and sweet spices linger long on the luscious aftertaste, which is marked by mounting austerity but also stays remarkably fresh and light on its feet. A powerful wine that carries itself with distinction and class. 93+ points 2021-2027, Ian D’Agata, Vinous

Wines Available

Whites:

• Fiano Asterias IGT

Reds:

• Aglianico Diciotto IGT

• Aglianico Zero IGT

Castello di Torre in Pietra

Castello di Torre in Pietra

ROMA | LAZIO
LAZIO

Founded:		1500
Owner:		Filippo Antonelli
Winemaker:		Antonino De Gennaro Aquino
Hectares under vines:		52ha
Altitude above sea level:		50m
Average annual production:		210,000 bottles
Green code:		Certified Organic

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WHAT THEY SAY

Torre in Pietra has a history that goes back to the 13th century - the stones paving the garden are taken from the Via Aurelia, the ancient roman road from Rome to Pisa; one can still see the ruts from wagon wheels. Originally a large agricultural estate, the property was purchased in the 16th century by the Peretti family (Pope Sixtus V - Pope Sixth the Fifth), and the existence of vineyards at that time has been well documented, as through successive changes of ownership. In the thirties, the estate was purchased by Senator Luigi Albertini, editor and owner of the newspaper Corriere della Sera. He created a model agricultural estate that covered 2500 hectares of land, specializing in milk production. However, from the beginning, the Senator turned his attention to winemaking, enlarging the existing cellar (in 1938, during excavation, important mammoth remains were discovered) and planting new vineyards.

WHAT WE SAY

The ancient, pastoral estate at Castello di Torre in Pietra feels like stepping back in time. All around is tranquil, verdant loveliness: close enough, but in many ways so far from the beautiful chaos of Rome. From the point of view of wine production, Lazio has never enjoyed the renown of many other appellations in Italy, even if generations of tourists to Rome fall in love with Frascati, or Est! Est!! Est!!! - simple white wines that can certainly be pleasing, but rarely great.

But there is a new DOC in town...and it carries the name of the great city that lies just to the east. Roma DOC comes in a red and a white version. The white is made from Malvasia Puntinata, also called Malvasia di Lazio, although Bombino Bellone or Trebbiano Verde are also permitted. The red features Cesanese along with Montepulciano and Sangiovese.

WINES WE IMPORT

WHITES:

Elephas Bianco IGT (Trebbiano/Vermentino/Fiano)

REDS:

Elephas Rosso IGT (Montepulciano/Sangiovese)
Roma Rosso Amor DOC (Montepulciano/Cesanese/Sangiovese)

Tenuta di Gracciano della Seta

Tenuta di Gracciano della Seta

MONTEPULCIANO | SIENA
TUSCANY

Founded:		1864
Owner:		della Seta family
Winemaker:		Beppe Rigoli
Hectares under vines:		20ha
Altitude above sea level:		300m to 350m
Average annual production:		95,000 bottles
Green code:		Certified Organic

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WHAT THEY SAY

The Gracciano Estate is one of the oldest wineries in the Montepulciano region. In the beginning of the 19th century, Gracciano was owned by the Svetoni family who built the Villa and created the Italian-style gardens that surround it. The property was purchased by Giorgio della Seta, who proceeded to renew the vineyards and build, in 2013, a new winery alongside the traditional unit, which is still used for ageing wine in wood. Today, the winery covers roughly 70 hectares of which 20 are vineyards. The vines grow on the clay and silty soil of the Gracciano hills, one of the oldest and most prestigious crus of Montepulciano. The winery has always been run by renowned oenologists who ensured that the Tenuta di Gracciano produced an excellent Vino Nobile, fully respecting the terroir and using indigenous vines.

WHAT WE SAY

We love this characterful, classic range. They are terroir-driven wines of finesse. From the delicious, lively youthful Rosso di Montepulciano, to the delicate yet complex Vino Nobile to the velvety, sensual and age-worthy Vino Nobile Riserva, these wines are worthy of attention.

WHAT OTHERS SAY

89 POINTS Kerin O’Keefe, Wine Enthusiast Magazine Gracciano della Seta 2016 Riserva (Vino Nobile di Montepulciano) ‘Aromas of dark-skinned fruit, camphor, ground clove and whiffs of French oak lead the nose. On the austere, light-bodied palate, taut, close-grained tannins and racy acidity accompany sour cherry, pomegranate and unroasted coffee bean.’

WINES WE IMPORT

Red

• Rosso di Montepulciano DOC

• Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG

• Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Riserva DOCG

Rosé

• Rosato di Toscana IGT

Manincor

Manincor

CALDARO | BOLZANO
ALTO ADIGE

Founded:		1698
Owner:		Count Michael Goëss-Enzenberg
Winemaker:		Helmuth Zozin
Hectares under vines:		50ha
Altitude above sea level:		230m to 550m
Average annual production:		350,000 bottles
Green code:		Certified biodynamic

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WHAT THEY SAY

Its roots go back to the early 1600s but Manincor is still a magnificent example of mixing old and new, functional and beautiful, natural and industrial.

Manincor wines have a strong personality provided by the natural diversity of sites and soil compositions. Vineyards are entirely cultivated on biodynamic principles and an uncompromising determination. Count Michael Goess-Enzenberg and his wife have applied the basics of sustainability when building their new cellar and winery in 2004.

WHAT WE SAY

Manincor wines are naturally pure. Long years of far-reaching development work are now bearing fruit (the conversion to Biodynamic principle only happened 10 years ago). One unique factor is that they harvest and air age their own oak trees, to make their barrels.

WHAT OTHERS SAY

‘Exceptional wines with a strong sense of place and lots of soul all reasonably priced and made with conviction in accordance with the criteria of biodynamic agriculture.’  Slow Wine Guide

La Rose de Manincor 2018

Decanter Magazine, Richard Baudain’s ‘Italy’s top rosés’: 16 rosato wines to try

95 points

‘Complex, ripe fruit, dark blossom and spices on the nose. Punchy intensity on the palate, with great volume and depth and a kaleidoscopic finish. Sheer class. Biodynamic.’

WINES WE IMPORT

WHITES:

La Manina IGT (Pinot Bianco/Sauvignon/Chardonnay)
Reserve della Contessa Terlaner DOC (Pinot Bianco/Chardonnay/Sauvignon)
Eichhorn DOC (Pinot Bianco)
Tannenberg DOC (Sauvignon)
Sophie DOC (Chardonnay)

ROSE/REDS:

La Rose de Manincor IGT (Lagrein/Merlot/Cabernet/Pinot Nero/Petit Verdot/Tempranillo/Syrah)
Keil DOC (Schiava)
Reserve del Conte IGT (Lagrein/Merlot/Cabernet)
Mason DOC (Pinot Nero)
Rubatsch (Lagrein)
Mason di Mason DOC (Pinot Nero)

Mastrojanni

Mastrojanni

CASTELNUOVO DELL’ABATE | SIENA
TUSCANY

Founded:		1975
Owner:		Gruppo Illy
Winemaker:		Maurizio Castelli
Hectares under vines:		40ha
Altitude above sea level:		190m - 410m
Average annual production:		160,000 bottles
Green code:		Sustainable

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WHAT THEY SAY

A strong identity, coherence and constancy in quality. These are the values that Mastrojanni has created and cultivated over the years and which enabled the company to stand out among over 200 wine producers of the Consortium of Brunello of Montalcino wine, with its original and high-quality profile. These values are the result of a passionate, proud and respectful interpretation of nature, tradition and history of the territory. According to our farmer fathers’ tradition, Mastrojanni wine is rigorously born in our vineyards, waiting patiently for the right moment to harvest. No transformation in our cellar, traditional winemaking and aging in big barrels: no barriques, seldom tonneaux. We bravely make difficult decisions, because we firmly believe in what our vineyard yields, and this means we must also believe in what it cannot yield: if the vintage is poor, the Brunello of Mastrojanni will not be produced.

WHAT WE SAY

Originally part of the Fattoria dei Barbi estate in Castelnuovo dell'Abate, Mastrojanni is located in the south eastern area of Montalcino. This family-owned winery has been operating since 1975 when Gabriele Mastrojanni bought the farm after recognizing a great un-tapped potential for Brunello in Castelnuovo dell’Abate. Mastrojanni was one of the first producers of Brunello in the area.

The vineyards are all south, south-east facing and positioned between the river Orcia and the inactive volcano, Mount Amiata. The favourable microclimate coupled with gravel, sand, and limestone-rich soils lends structure to these wines.

WHAT OTHERS SAY

The Mastrojanni 2015 Brunello di Montalcino has a succulent or meaty quality that adds to the overall intensity of the wine. You get rich fruit, baking spice and even a touch of rum cake. The wine is dark and velvety in appearance, and the mouthfeel is robust and concentrated. I love the full-bodied appeal and power of this wine. It has seamlessly captured the spirit of the vintage. Its approach is immediate, and you can enjoy this wine without waiting too much longer...’ Robert Parker, Wine Advocate 94+ points

Wines available   

• ROSSO di MONTALCINO DOC

• BRUNELLO di MONTALCINO DOCG

• BRUNELLO di MONTALCINO Vigna Loreto DOCG

• BRUNELLO di MONTALCINO Schiena d'Asino DOCG