Umani Ronchi

Very few regions offer as much diversity in such a small area as Abruzzo, situated in the middle of Italy. Between the rugged Apennine mountain range and the sandy beaches of the Adriatic lies the captivating and extremely fertile La Collina, an undulating landscape of vineyards, olive groves and fig trees. Vines have been planted in Abruzzo since time immemorial. A Greek historian documented that Hannibal refreshed his soldiers with wine from this region. Today, the region is known above all for its hearty and uncomplicated wines, suitable for everyday drinking – most of them made from the characteristic local grape variety of Montepulciano.

The model company run by Massimo Bernetti and his son Michele is among the elite of the narrow premium segment of Marche. In addition to 200 hectares of land between the Apennines and the Adriatic coast, this successful team also cultivates 30 hectares of vines in neighbouring Abruzzo. Michele Bernetti is continuing the work of his father and uncle with the same drive and energy. He has converted 210 hectares of vines to organic cultivation. A tip: do try the white wine made from the Pecorino grape variety. It supposedly owes its name to the fact that sheep – «pecora» in Italian – used to enjoy these grapes. Only a very few winemakers grow this variety. The Bernettis use it to make a dry, full-bodied wine with plenty of substance.

Producer’s website