Avignonesi, Grifi Rosso 2019

The grapes come from six vineyards across the area at an average altitude of 300 metre asl. The soils are of sedimentary marine origin with the alternation of clay, loam and calcareous sand. The Cabernet Sauvignon grows on the same type of soil, but richer in more recent fluvial pebbles. The fermentation for the two varieties took place separately in stainless steel tanks with indigenous yeasts. Alcoholic fermentation and maceration on the skins lasted up to 20 days. The wine aged for 18 months in 85% French oak barriques and 15% large Slavonian oak cask (only for Sangiovese).

Founded in 1974, Avignonesi is the leading winery in the Montepulciano area of Tuscany. Its flagship wine, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, is appreciated by critics and wine lovers worldwide. Avignonesi was purchased in 2009 by Virginie Saverys, who has brought significant changes to the winery.

She has worked tirelessly to convert the entire property to organic and biodynamic viticulture, with the clear goal of crafting distinct, genuine wines that fully express the singular characteristics of the Avignonesi terroir. In 2015 Avignonesi received its organic certification and is currently waiting to obtain biodynamic certification as well.

Today, Avignonesi owns 161 hectares of vineyards spread out over the Montepulciano and Cortona appellations. Resident winemakers, Ashleigh Seymour and Matteo Giustiniani oversee production, and under Virginie's guidance, Avignonesi has developed a production philosophy based on balance, elegance, brightness of fruit and a strong sense of place.