We are delighted to introduce the work of a passionate man, guardian of ancient grape varieties and producer of ancestral wines, Claudio Plessi.
Over the last fifty years, Claudio has played a pivotal role in the Emilian agronomic landscape and the preservation of its heritage. Professor of agricultural science and dedicated researcher at the University of Parma and Bologna, Claudio has been a fervent political activist in the workers' vanguard and a precursor of environmental protection and organic agriculture.
Born in 1952 in Castelnuovo Rangone, a town nestled on the hills south of Modena, Claudio's journey into agriculture began in 1958 when his family embarked on farming fruit trees and vines. With an unwavering commitment to sustainable and respectful agricultural practices, he embraced organic methods in 1986, and by 2000, viticulture took centre stage on his farm.
During his extensive research on the Modena hills overlooking the Apennines, Claudio rediscovered almost forgotten grape varieties, transforming his vineyard into a library of local varieties on the brink of extinction: Uva Tosca, Festasio, Lambrusco del Pellegrino, Uva Ruggine, Trebbiano di Spagna and Sgavetta. Located on the east bank of the river Tiepido, the three hectares of vines grow on alluvial soils rich in limestone and sand.
From the outset, Claudio directed his efforts toward crafting single-varietal wines, both fermi and frizzanti, following traditional winemaking methods rooted in Modena's centuries-old practices. From the crunchy Muntanera 2021 to the deep and savoury Tiepido 2017, each wine shows a unique character that delivers distinct elements with every sip.