Stefano Amerighi
Stefano Amerighi is a prominent biodynamic winemaker from Tuscany, known for producing exceptional Syrah wines in the heart of Cortona. Since founding his estate in 2002, Amerighi has dedicated himself to organic and biodynamic principles, creating wines that reflect the true character of his terroir while respecting the environment. His passion for Syrah, combined with his commitment to sustainable agriculture, has earned him recognition as one of Italy’s leading biodynamic producers.
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- demeter
- EU Organic Certification
Stefano Amerighi’s vineyards are located on the rolling hills of Cortona, an area in southeastern Tuscany known for its warm climate and varied soils, which provide ideal conditions for growing Syrah. Amerighi carefully selected his vineyard sites based on soil composition, exposure, and microclimates to cultivate grapes with the highest potential for complexity and balance. The estate is planted exclusively with Syrah, a grape variety that thrives in the Tuscan climate, and which Amerighi believes has the ability to express the nuances of his land better than any other.
From the beginning, Amerighi’s philosophy has been rooted in biodynamic viticulture. The estate follows a strict biodynamic regime, eschewing the use of synthetic chemicals and fertilizers. Instead, Amerighi uses natural preparations made from plants, minerals, and animal manure to nourish the soil and strengthen the vines. He also employs practices such as cover cropping, composting, and following the lunar calendar for vineyard tasks, all of which contribute to maintaining the health and vitality of his vineyards.
In the cellar, Stefano Amerighi takes a minimalist approach to winemaking, allowing the grapes and the terroir to speak for themselves. The grapes are harvested by hand and undergo spontaneous fermentation with native yeasts. Amerighi uses traditional winemaking techniques, including foot treading of the grapes in concrete tanks, which helps to gently extract the juice and preserve the purity of the fruit. The wines are aged in a combination of large oak barrels and concrete vats, ensuring that the Syrah retains its freshness and vibrant fruit character while developing complexity.
The flagship wine of the estate is Amerighi’s Cortona Syrah, a wine that has become a benchmark for quality in the region. It is known for its intense aromas of dark fruits, black pepper, and violets, combined with a refined structure and elegant tannins. The wine strikes a perfect balance between power and finesse, showcasing the richness of the Tuscan terroir while maintaining the elegance and spice typical of the Syrah grape. Amerighi’s Syrah is made in limited quantities and is highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs alike.
Stefano Amerighi also produces a second label, "Apice," a selection of his best Syrah grapes from the highest and most expressive vineyard parcels. Apice is a more concentrated and structured wine, with layers of complexity and the potential to age for many years. This wine is a true reflection of Amerighi’s dedication to craftsmanship and his belief in the potential of biodynamic viticulture.
Amerighi’s approach to farming and winemaking is driven by his desire to create wines that are authentic and reflective of their origins. He sees himself as a steward of the land, working in harmony with nature to produce wines that express the unique qualities of his vineyards. His commitment to sustainability extends beyond the vineyard, with a focus on reducing the environmental impact of his entire estate. By adhering to biodynamic principles, Stefano Amerighi is able to produce wines that are not only of exceptional quality but also respectful of the environment and the health of future generations.
Today, Stefano Amerighi is recognized as a leading figure in the biodynamic wine movement in Italy. His wines have gained international acclaim for their purity, elegance, and expression of terroir. Through his dedication to biodynamic farming and traditional winemaking methods, Amerighi has elevated the reputation of Syrah in Tuscany, proving that this grape can produce world-class wines in the region. His work has inspired a new generation of winemakers to embrace sustainable practices and to explore the potential of biodynamic viticulture in Italy.