In early 2009, Appassionata were given permission by the regional authority to remove the old vines on Estate Giacomo Leopardi’s vineyard and replace them with new ones. After being neglected for some time, the 35 year old vines had not been producing wine for many years. In July 2009, Appassionata embarked on the process of removing the old vines, but at 300m above sea level on a south facing hillside, this was not an easy task. After a lot of hard work and early mornings, by the end of August 2009, each of the old vines had been individually removed and the entire 1.7 acres of terrain had been deep vein ploughed ready for the new vines to be planted.
With the help of Enologist Pio Carlini Appassionata began planning the layout and preparation of the vineyard and chose to plant a combination of red Montepulciano and white Passerina grapes, both local varieties from the Le Marche region, capable of producing wines of interesting depth, colour and complexity. World renowned grapevine producer, Vivai Cooperativi Rauscedo provided cuttings of the chosen vines and in March 2010 the vineyard was replanted.
Estate Giacomo Leopardi is now home to a 48 row vineyard with 2,487 vines:
• 1,279 Montepulciano - a red grape which makes a beautifully deep ruby red medium to full-bodied wine which is clear and brilliant with purple shades
• 1,208 Passerina - a white grape which makes a sumptuous dry and full flavoured white wine which is soft and delicate with pleasing floral aromas
The total quantity of wine that will be produced from the Appassionata vineyard is dependent upon many factors, but with the vines growing well and looking healthy, it is estimated that up to 5,000 bottles could be produced on the land; certainly enough to share amongst the Appassionata owners!
Escape in the luxury and beauty of owning your own vineyard; sipping your very own wine epitomises the escape, freedom and luxury of this true Italian dream.
For more information on Estate Giacomo Leopardi’s vineyard, please visit the blog here.