History and Philosophy

Avignonesi is one of the most renowned wineries in Tuscany, particularly for its contribution to the development of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Founded in the 19th century, the winery has undergone several transformations. In 2009, it was taken over by Virginia Savarese, who emphasized organic and biodynamic winemaking. Today, Avignonesi follows the principle that "wine is a reflection of the earth," focusing on the natural balance between vine, soil, and climate.

With Savarese’s arrival, the winery underwent a complete transformation, abandoning chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Extensive soil research was conducted, and natural methods of vine protection were introduced, including cover crops and natural compost. This approach has not only improved vineyard health but also enhanced the wines' terroir-driven character. The estate actively invests in innovations such as renewable energy and biodiversity restoration projects.

Terroir and Vineyards

The Avignonesi vineyards are located in the Montepulciano region, where soils consist of a mixture of clay, limestone, and sandstone. The temperate climate, with warm days and cool nights, creates ideal conditions for grape ripening. In addition to its core holdings, the estate owns vineyards in Cortona, where wines are made from international varieties such as Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.

The biodynamic approach includes natural soil fertilization, minimal intervention, and the use of the lunar calendar in vineyard management. The winery strictly adheres to this approach, paying attention to even the smallest natural cycles. Herbs and flower crops are used to enrich the soil, along with compost prepared on-site. This helps preserve soil microflora, ensuring healthy vine growth and improving disease resistance.

Approach to Winemaking

Avignonesi follows a philosophy of minimal intervention, allowing the grapes to fully express their terroir. Fermentation occurs with natural yeasts, without the addition of fermentation aids. Aging takes place in large Slavonian oak barrels as well as French barriques, though oak influence is kept subtle, ensuring that the wines retain freshness, a pure fruit profile, and elegant structure.

During vinification, techniques such as extended maceration are used to extract maximum flavor and structure from the grape skins. Some wines are aged in amphorae, giving them a unique texture and depth. Modern analytical methods and strict quality control at every stage help maintain consistency without compromising the wines' natural expressiveness.

Key Wines

• Vino Nobile di Montepulciano – The estate's flagship wine, made exclusively from Sangiovese. It is characterized by depth, soft tannins, and expressive aromas of cherry, violets, and spices. Thanks to the biodynamic approach, each vintage retains freshness and harmony, making it a benchmark for elegant and authentic Vino Nobile.

• Desiderio Merlot – A wine that showcases Merlot’s potential in Tuscany. Its dense texture, rich dark fruit, and subtle minerality make it stand out. The name refers to the legendary Desiderio bull, a symbol of strength and grace—qualities reflected in the wine's character.

• Cantaloro – A more approachable wine that offers flexibility and expressiveness, blending Tuscan and international varieties. A great introduction to Avignonesi’s style.

• Occhio di Pernice Vin Santo – One of Italy’s most distinctive sweet wines, aged for many years in tiny caratelli barrels. This dense, rich nectar features layers of dried fruit, nuts, and caramel—a true masterpiece of Tuscan winemaking tradition.

Wine Style

Avignonesi wines are defined by elegance and finesse, distinguishing them from the more intense and powerful styles found elsewhere in Tuscany. The balance between acidity, fruit, and structure is key. A biodynamic approach and minimal intervention result in wines that are vibrant and expressive, preserving their individuality from vintage to vintage.

Unlike other producers in Montepulciano, Avignonesi prioritizes finesse and balance over over-extraction and aggressive oak influence. This makes the wines appealing to both connoisseurs of classic Italian styles and those seeking a modern interpretation of Tuscan tradition.

Market Position and Reputation

Avignonesi is shaping the modern identity of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, demonstrating that the wine can be both refined and expressive. The estate’s wines resonate with both traditionalists and those drawn to natural winemaking, with its commitment to biodynamics adding further appeal.

While Avignonesi’s style continues to evolve, it remains true to its core philosophy of respecting the land and maintaining a deep connection with the terroir. The winery has established a strong presence in the international market, offering wines with a distinctive character that reflects both the essence of Tuscany and its centuries-old winemaking traditions.