2018 Avignonesi Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, Tuscany, Italy

After a few years as a silent partner, the Belgian Virginie Saverys took over the prestigious winery in 2009. She was a consumer, and overnight she became a producer. This crossing of the mirror motivated Saverys to undertake a radical regeneration of the winery. Safety at work, pollution and climate became Avignonesi’s primary concerns. Out of respect for workers, consumers and the environment, she has banned highly toxic synthetic biocides that pollute the soil, the air and the water. Concurrently, she has forbidden the use of commercial yeasts, dyes, enzymes, tannins and other industrial adjuvants in the cellar. The company strives to restore its native character to better establish the identity of the fruit. Biodynamic viticulture contributes to a large extent in achieving this purpose. Under the guidance of oenologist Matteo Giustiniani, the use of oak is increasingly sparing (especially for Sangiovese). This results in fresher wines, where the fruit aromas are often accompanied by vibrant acidity. The elegant profile and sobriety of the tannins prevail over the power without harming the ageing potential.