JUne 27, 2024
A journey to Macchion dei Lupi
Chasing dreams from Milan to Suvereto
Reading Time: 4 mins
Imagine leaving a stable job in a Milan bank to pursue a dream of winemaking in the rugged hills of Suvereto, Tuscany. That’s exactly what the founder of Macchion dei Lupi, Carlo Parenti, did.
The first time I met him, I was fascinated by the look in his eyes, which told his story—a combination of pride in facing the challenges he encountered along the way.
This is one of those wineries and realities you can find ‘by coincidence.’ One of my clients mentioned a few days ago that he had tasted one of the best Vermentinos during their journey in Italy. Well, I had to find it and try it!
When I went to the winery to see this venture with my own eyes, Carlo openly told me about the challenging journey he went through to cultivate vineyards and produce wine in a territory known for its harsh conditions, which is not always hospitable to foreigners, on top of it!
Today, his bottles encapsulate his dedication to the vine, showcasing the intense flavors of their grapes, the minerality of their soils, and the salinity of the nearby sea. Each sip tells the story of this unique land, a testament to this uncompromising path towards genuinely sustainable agriculture.
Biodynamic viticulture is gaining popularity worldwide, not merely as a philosophical or ecological choice but because it allows for the production of wines that truly reflect their origins. Macchion dei Lupi follows this path, producing wines in the most natural way possible. Here, “natural” means unadulterated, free to express itself, guided through the process of turning grapes into wine without prejudice, honoring what the land and the vintage have to offer.
Carlo’s approach is deeply influenced by the teachings of Rudolf Steiner, the father of biodynamics. Since its inception in 1924, biodynamics has focused on the natural fertility of the soil, aiming to produce healthy plants and animals capable of efficiently interacting with their environment. This method strengthens the human metabolism, fostering harmonious physical and spiritual development.
In practice, this means no synthetic chemicals, the use of biodynamic preparations like horn manure, and green manure practices to fertilize the soil and attract beneficial insects. Macchion dei Lupi follows the biodynamic calendar as closely as possible, striving to recreate a balanced ecosystem.
Modern winemaking often relies on controlled temperatures and selected, cloned yeasts to avoid the whims of nature, resulting in – as Carlo says – soulless, technical wines. In contrast, Macchion dei Lupi aims to let the “genius of the soil and the vintage” shine through in their wines.
In the cellar, he adopts a non-corrective attitude, believing that well-tended vineyards bring healthy grapes, full of life force and potential. His wines undergo spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts, minimal sulfites, and no temperature control. He avoids clarifications, filtrations, and additives, focusing instead on punch-downs, macerations, rackings and creativity.
Would you like to enjoy Macchion dei Lupi’s exceptional wines
but can’t make to Italy or find it nearby?
No worries!
I’ll be more than happy to ship the finest expressions of
Esperienze IGT Costa Toscana Sangiovese, vintage 2019,
straight to your door (nearly) worldwide.
Ready to toast?
