Avignonesi

The estate is owned by Virginie Saverys, a Belgian entrepreneur who acquired full control in 2009. Under her leadership, Avignonesi transitioned to biodynamic farming and redefined its approach to winemaking. Winemaker Matteo Giustiniani oversees production, ensuring that the wines reflect the estate’s philosophy of minimal intervention and terroir expression.

Avignonesi traces its roots back to the late 16th century, taking its name from the founding Avignonesi family, who were prominent landowners in Montepulciano. The estate became synonymous with high-quality Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, a wine often referred to as the “king of wines” in historical texts. In the 20th century, Avignonesi gained wider recognition under the ownership of the Falvo brothers, who acquired the estate in the 1970s. The brothers brought a modern approach to winemaking, investing in technology and expanding vineyard holdings. Their efforts helped elevate the reputation of Vino Nobile and established Avignonesi as a benchmark producer in the region. By the early 2000s, the estate was widely celebrated for its meticulous craftsmanship and deep ties to Montepulciano’s winemaking heritage, setting the stage for its transformation under new ownership in 2009.

Avignonesi, one of Montepulciano’s most renowned wineries, is currently owned by Virginie Saverys, who acquired the estate in 2009. A passionate advocate for sustainable viticulture, Saverys transformed Avignonesi into a leading biodynamic winery, making it a pioneer in Tuscany. Under her leadership, the estate expanded its vineyards and implemented holistic farming practices, emphasizing biodiversity and soil health. Saverys’ vision has not only elevated the quality of Avignonesi’s Vino Nobile di Montepulciano but also reinforced the estate’s commitment to crafting wines that authentically reflect the unique terroirs of Montepulciano and Cortona. Her dedication to environmental stewardship and terroir-driven winemaking has positioned Avignonesi as a benchmark for biodynamic excellence in Italy.

The estate spans multiple vineyard sites across Montepulciano, with key holdings in prime areas such as Le Capezzine, I Poggetti, and Banditella. These sites benefit from the region’s rolling hills, clay-limestone soils, and the moderating influence of nearby lakes, creating optimal conditions for Sangiovese.

Avignonesi owns over 175 hectares of vineyards, all farmed biodynamically. The estate’s approach prioritizes biodiversity, natural soil health, and non-interventionist farming. The focus is on Sangiovese, though other varieties like Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and indigenous grapes play a role in certain cuvées.

The winery follows a natural approach, with spontaneous fermentations, long macerations, and aging in a combination of traditional Slavonian oak casks and smaller French barrels. The Vin Santo, one of Avignonesi’s most renowned wines, undergoes an extended aging process in caratelli (small wooden barrels) using the traditional “madre” method.

Avignonesi produces several expressions of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, including the flagship "Vino Nobile" and the single-vineyard "Poggetto di Sopra." "Desiderio" is the estate’s notable Merlot, while "Grifi" blends Sangiovese with Cabernet Sauvignon. Their Vin Santo and Occhio di Pernice are among the most revered sweet wines of Tuscany, known for their extraordinary concentration and aging potential.

The estate offers guided tours and tastings at its Le Capezzine property, where visitors can explore the vineyards, cellar, and drying rooms for Vin Santo. Tastings range from introductory experiences to deep dives into aged wines and biodynamic practices. A restaurant on-site provides pairings with local Tuscan cuisine.