Orsola

At the helm of L’Azienda Vitivinicola Castello di Tassarolo is Massimiliana Spinola, overseeing 17 hectares of vineyards nestled in the heart of Gavi in Piedmont. The estate, rooted in a rich winemaking history dating back to the 14th century, cultivates the “Cortese di Gavi,” Barbera, and Cabernet Sauvignon varieties. A transformative moment occurred in 2006 when Massimiliana embraced biodynamic viticulture, ensuring utmost respect for nature and the environment.

Henry, Massimiliana's former partner and a London native, introduced innovative methods such as employing working heavy horses in the vineyards—a pioneering effort in Northern Italy. With a deep understanding of Rudolf Steiner’s philosophies and over two decades of experience, Henry actively promotes heavy horse work through courses and a nationally recognized certificate in Piedmont. Collaborating with enologist Vincenzo Muni, Massimiliana focuses on crafting white wines without added sulfur and oxidative properties, a challenging feat in natural winemaking. The success is attributed to the health of the soil and grapes nurtured by their biodynamic practices. Certified organic and biodynamic since 2006 and 2007 respectively, with additional recognition from USDA Organic and Vegan certifications, L’Azienda Vitivinicola Castello di Tassarolo's wines embody a unique synergy of tradition, innovation, and environmental stewardship, making them a compelling choice for those seeking a taste of Piedmontese heritage and sustainable viticulture.

About the Winemaker

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Massimiliana works closely with their enologist Vincenzo to make the wines in the cantina. Together they have developed a method of making white wines without any added sulfur and without oxidative properties, a difficult feat for many involved in Natural Winemaking. They attribute much of their success in this endeavor to the health of the soil and grapes afforded by Henry’s biodynamic work.

Orsola

The Region

Piedmont, Italy

Piedmont, a region renowned for its rich winemaking traditions, offers a captivating profile in its natural wines, reflecting the terroir and heritage of the area. Crafted from indigenous grape varieties such as Nebbiolo, Barbera, and Dolcetto, Piedmont's natural wines showcase a remarkable depth of flavor and complexity. With a focus on minimal intervention and organic farming practices, these wines exude purity and elegance, boasting enticing aromas of ripe red fruits, floral notes, and hints of spice. On the palate, Piedmont's natural wines captivate with their harmonious balance, displaying vibrant acidity, silky tannins, and a lingering finish that speaks to the region's distinct terroir. Whether it's a robust Barolo, a lively Barbera, or a refreshing Dolcetto, Piedmont's natural wines offer a true expression of the land and a testament to the timeless artistry of winemaking in this revered Italian region.