Avignonesi, Desiderio 2020

Desiderio is the name of a bull that lived on Avignonesi’s Capezzine Farm more than one hundred years ago, and that has
become something of a legend. In fact, at that time Desiderio was the largest bull in Tuscany and because of his excellent genes, this majestic animal helped refine and define the Chianina cattle race, specific to our region. It came as a natural choice to dedicate the Merlot to this beloved bull, as a testimony of the wine’s origins, and as a symbol of its powerful, yet sensuous character.

Fermentation with use of indigenous yeasts in stainless steel vats at a controlled temperature for 25-30 days, with daily pumping over and punching down. Aged In oak barriques (225 ltr)

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.