In the heart of the stunning Tuscan countryside lies Avignonesi Winery. It has become a symbol of sustainability and innovation in the wine world. Founded in 1974 as an agricultural business, Avignonesi has undergone a remarkable transformation. It has evolved from a simple wine producer to a leader in the realm of “good winemaking.”
In 2009, the winery underwent a significant transformation when it was acquired by Virginie Saverys. Since then, Avignonesi has stood out not only for its excellent wines but also for its commitment to organic and biodynamic agriculture, positioning itself as a leader in sustainable winemaking.
Working Towards a Better Future
Avignonesi’s philosophy can be summed up by the concept of kalòs and kagathòs. These terms, from ancient Greece, combine the notions of beauty (kalòs) and goodness (kagathòs). They express a profound coherence between ethics and aesthetics. This concept highlights that to be truly “beautiful,” products and actions must be inherently good and just. Practically, this means that a commitment to ethical and sustainable practices must accompany the aesthetic quality of the wines and experiences offered.
Producing noble wines also means behaving nobly, respecting the land, the people, and the Montepulciano community. This commitment is reflected in the company’s mission to nourish the land and its people, creating a better world for future generations.
This is why, under the guidance of Virginie Saverys, Avignonesi has adopted organic and biodynamic agricultural practices, formally recognized in 2021 with the designation of Benefit Corporation. The company employs techniques that enhance soil health and biodiversity, minimizing environmental impact while producing superior-quality wines. This dedication to sustainability extends to distribution systems and consumer education, with a transparent and innovative approach.
“Working every day to become a good ancestor” encapsulates the core of Avignonesi’s philosophy. It means committing daily to leaving a positive and sustainable legacy, not just for one’s generation but for future ones as well. This approach is reflected in every business decision, from vineyard management and wine production to hospitality and distribution practices. Therefore, the choice to embrace organic and biodynamic agriculture is not merely a technical decision but an ethical commitment. Biodynamics, in particular, goes beyond organic farming by viewing the farm as a living organism that must be self-sufficient and sustainable. This involves avoiding synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, promoting biodiversity, and using natural preparations to enhance soil and plant health.
Excellence in Wines: A Result of Passion, Respect, and Expertise
Avignonesi encompasses vineyards, a synergistic garden, olive groves, forest, and arable land. The vineyards span approximately 170 hectares, where Sangiovese, Merlot, Trebbiano, and Malvasia are primarily cultivated.
From these grapes emerge prestigious wines that tell the story of the land and Avignonesi’s dedication. Among the highlights is the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, a prestigious DOCG that embodies the very essence of the winery. Another notable wine is the Vin Santo Occhio di Pernice, a sweet and enveloping wine that represents the quintessence of Tuscan winemaking tradition.
Additionally, the estate features 7 hectares of olive groves, a 0.5-hectare synergistic garden (a cultivation method that leverages the synergy between plants and natural elements), 43 hectares of forest, and 48 hectares of arable land. One wine that particularly impressed us was the “Vino Nobile di Montepulciano D.O.C.G. 2013” 10 Year Vintage Release.
100% Sangiovese grapes. Fermented, aged, bottled, and carefully stored in the Avignonesi cellar. The alcoholic fermentation with maceration on the skins lasts from 20 to 30 days, varying depending on the individual wine lots. The winery selects yeast from its pied de cuve for this process. The winemakers then age the wine for 12 months in French barriques. After that, they transfer it to Slavonian oak casks for an additional 6 months. Finally, the wine rests in the bottle for at least 8 years, developing its complexity and aromatic depth.
The color is an intense ruby red. On the nose, the bouquet is both elegant and complex. It begins with floral notes of violet and wild roses. These are followed by hints of plum, Morello cherry, and red fruit. Although it is a 2013 vintage, the fruity aromas remain fresh. The wine is also accompanied by nuances of tar, licorice, coffee, and cocoa. On the palate, it is round and fresh. The wine is well-structured with long persistence and features pleasant balsamic notes on the finish.
It is a delightful combination of aromas that once again confirms the Sangiovese’s ability to evolve in an iconic manner.
Classica Day: an event dedicated to enthusiasts
Every year in March, Avignonesi hosts the Classica Day, an event dedicated to industry professionals and wine enthusiasts. It is an opportunity to discover the latest developments from the winery. Attendees can taste its finest wines and deepen their understanding of both the region and Avignonesi’s production philosophy. The 2024 edition, held on March 17 and 18, welcomed 450 guests. They had the chance to appreciate the excellence of Avignonesi’s wines and experience a unique event in the heart of Tuscany.
The Gala Dinner
The two days featured specific activities designed to encourage dialogue and promote quality viticulture. They hosted the gala dinner in the Appassitoio de Le Capezzine, one of the most emblematic locations of the Avignonesi Group The event began with a selection of sparkling wines. Guests enjoyed both alcoholic options, such as Clarabella 180, and a non-alcoholic choice, French Bloom Rosé.
The evening continued with a tasting of Avignonesi wines. Among the highlights was the Dadi Rosso 2022, a wine that symbolizes a bridge towards the future and innovation.
Subsequently, the 2010 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano was served, one of the group’s and the denomination’s icons, a 100% Sangiovese from Avignonesi’s historic reserve. The dinner concluded with the Vin Santo Occhio di Pernice 2010, a rare and precious gem. Its amber color with golden reflections hints at its complexity. On the nose, the wine reveals a rich and extremely complex bouquet with notes of honey, chestnut, almond, orange marmalade, dates, and apricot. Toasted almond, amaretto, fresh walnut, and dried fig emerge on the palate. The wine is warm and pleasant, with a long and persistent finish.
March 18th was equally eventful, starting with a masterclass dedicated to the “Desiderio” Toscana Merlot IGT from the 2017 and 2018 vintages.
The 2017 “Desiderio” has an explosive aromatic impact. Its bouquet is broad and complex. It ranges from cherry and plum jam to notes of black tea, rhubarb, and graphite. There are also subtle hints of fermented tobacco on the finish.
The entry on the palate is bold. It engages the senses with the typical and imposing structure of Tuscan Merlot—rich and warm.
In contrast, the 2018 “Desiderio” highlights the fruity aspects more prominently, while sweeter spices take a back seat. Fresh notes of berries, blueberry, and raspberry intertwine with delicate hints of sweet spices, such as saffron and cardamom. The wine is enriched by fresh Mediterranean herbs and maritime pine. On the palate, it is smooth and full-bodied, with a rounded and well-structured profile. Silky tannins and a persistent finish are enhanced by a touch of dark chocolate.
Let us plant trees under whose shade we will never sit
Ancient Proverb